Marcelo Deiss Moves Through Music
Brazilian Londoner Marcelo Deiss is a citizen of the world, and he shows this through his music. Embedded with politically and socially conscious messages, his music is a testament of Deiss’ commitment to making the world a more just one. The singer-songwriter latest EP, Hurl, is the story of an artist disenchanted with the status quo, yet hopeful about the future and art’s place in it. Jejune sat down with Deiss to learn more about his vision for Hurl, how he makes music from the melody to the lyrics, and how he uses his multicultural background to uplift others. To find out more about Marcelo Deiss, continue reading below.
Where are you based?
I am currently based in São Paulo due to the pandemic! The plan is to get back to London as soon as everything dies down this side.
What do you love most about living in London?
Probably the diversity and the fact that there is so much to do and see.
In what ways does living in the UK differ from Brazil?
The most obvious one would be the weather. Culturally it’s also very different —the music, the food etc. There is also a huge aesthetic difference. I find Brazil to be more vibrant and colorful. London seems to have a “grunge” like appearance which personally I find pretty cool. It definitely helps inspire me to write.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I think just my love and passion for music. It’s the one thing that gives me endless joy in life. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.
How did you find your style of music?
I would say through experimenting over the years. Something that also helped was not trying to sound like anyone else. Having fun and trying new sounds/techniques is always a great approach.
And what advice would you give to aspiring singers that are trying to find their own voice?
Experiment, experiment, experiment!
Let’s talk about your new EP, Hurl. We’re obsessed. Could you tell us about your creative process?
Yeah so it varies but subjects that really inspire me are visual things. Physical art, films or books. I love reading (especially during the pandemic) watching stories and feeling a connection with what I’m seeing. This often sparks inspiration which leads to me scribble down on a piece of paper or write notes on my phone.
How do you approach making music?
90% of the time it comes from the melody. That's my first step when creating a new song. Establishing the melody throughout the whole song. From that I can start to put words to it. I always keep scribbles and phrases in my notebooks or on my cell phone, meaning that I have loads of words that I can play with once I have the structure of the song finalized.
Hurl covers many cultural and political issues. What message are you trying to convey through your EP?
Basically that we are numbed by adds, likes, fake news and we are losing touch with ourselves. The planet is dividing itself and most of us are unfortunately losing track of what’s real and what’s not.
Hurl is an intersection Portuguese and English lyrics. Why was it so important to create music that includes both languages?
I think as I get older I’ve realized that authenticity is so important. I speak both English and Portuguese on a daily basis. I think I’d be robbing myself if I chose to only sing in one language.
Not only are you exposing your listeners to a different language, but you have also volunteered for Cidadão Pró-Mundo. Could you tell us a bit about what this nonprofit does and your collaboration with them?
Yes so basically they help promote opportunities for social inclusion and integration in Brazil through the means of teaching English. I used to volunteer on the weekends by teaching beginners classes.
What drew you to Cidadão Pró-Mundo?
Firstly, their work ethic and motives.
Secondly, I’ve come to realize that learning a widely spoken universal language not only helps broaden people’s knowledge, it also helps create more working opportunities.
What have you learned from teaching English and Cidadão Pró-Mundo that you have applied to your artistry?
Not to sound cheesy but to never give up and always be willing to try something new, even if it’s outside of your comfort zone.
COVID-19 has put many things to a halt. Is there anything that you’re excited to resume, be it music-wise or volunteership?
It would be great to travel and work on some new content in London. I’m excited to shoot new videos, link up with old friends and start collaborating again.
Are there any upcoming projects you’d like to share with Jejune?
Yeah. I’m currently in the studio recording tracks for my solo album that will be coming out later this year. We’re also in the process of potentially arranging a mini tour in September.
How are you staying positive during shelter in place?
Small things such as trying to workout on a daily basis. Reading lots of new material. Writing. Making an effort to cook new recipes and spending time with my dog.
What's your motto in life?
Consistency is key.
To learn more about Marcelo Deiss, please follow him via the below platforms:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/marcelodeiss
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCLK4pZIi4cMprGeNhuPo4Lw
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5r1iLMOeBtDV4WDKUIqNo5?si=hwnfpmj7Qvq5sTNn7YR1Xw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deissmarcelo
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcelodeiss
Photography by Sergio Angot.
