Upkvst Gets Clean, Releases Boom-Bap “Midnight Club”
Your past doesn’t determine your future, you do – that’s the message of New Brunswick artist Upkvst’s newly-released single, “Midnight Club.”
Over a murky boom-bap beat that leaps the listener into a nighttime vibe, Upkvst delivers meaningful bars explaining the diamond in the rough mentality, shining in the dark, and pushing forward to forge a brighter future.
A Moncton-native, Upkvst has dealt with his share of troubles in his lifetime. The 24-year-old felt misunderstood and outcasted growing up, and it led to a dark path of substance abuse. But years of growth and reflection have lifted him from that place, and his confidence in his future will never falter. Everything moves up for Upkvst, the inspiration for the first two letters of his music moniker.
That mindset is central to “Midnight Club.”
“I wanted to give a sense of confidence through this song, like you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it,” Upkvst explained. “The demons I used to have are no longer burdens. I needed to face them to feel free.”
The song is rife with references to late-night drives and some nights checking out an old video game called “Midnight Club,” from its bars to its overall mood to actual car revving samples hidden within its layers. The track also includes an homage to Mac Miller’s “Nikes On My Feet,” the first song from the rapper that Upkvst ever heard. Along with performers and artists such as Frank Ocean, Daniel Caesar, Post Malone, and Russ, Mac Miller made a major impact on Upkvst in his upbringing, musical and otherwise.
“He was one of the main reasons why I started digging into hip hop, studying other artists and the flows they used,” Upkvst said. “I also love Nike shoes.”
“Midnight Club” is part of a larger release from Upkvst. The track is one of many that’s featured on his newest album, Rdy Set Go! The album’s cover art is layered with metaphors; all meant to signify the important themes and lessons Upkvst lays down.
In Upkvst’s typical style, the album’s name is also a piece of a larger puzzle, aimed at relying Upkvst’s very human struggle with a word of advice on how others can navigate this difficult thing called life.
“I’m ready for what’s to come, I’m set for my future, and I let go of what’s already happened,” Upkvst explained.
Listen to “Midnight Club” below, and learn more about Upkvst via our mini-interview.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Hey there, my name is Alex, formerly known as Upkvst. I’m 24 years old, born and raised in Atlantic, Canada. I’m all about positivity and living every day with gratefulness. My purpose and mission for my music are to help people in any way or form by being an inspiration to someone that you can listen to when you’re feeling some type of way, Music saved me, and now I’m enjoying the journey every step of the way.
What’s it like being a musician in Moncton?
It’s nice, but the music scene isn’t very big down here. It just doesn’t feel like many people understand that in order to grow, you need to network and find connections. I feel like it could improve a lot more for sure. I have a select group of people that I work with at the moment that I’m proud to have on board. I’m just not too sure if Moncton will always be the place for me musically when there are much bigger cities out there that offer more.
How tough was it to get so personal in the lyrics?
It wasn’t tough at all. Music is a way for me to heal by voicing myself. If I need something said, I go straight to the pen & pad to let it out.
Who was the first artist to knock you sideways?
I would have to say Frank ocean. His wordplay is very unique and beautiful. He tells a story so well, and it’s always been a super big inspiration for me when I started writing music. The way he creates his music is just very powerful yet relaxing at the same time. I’ve been listening to him for many years, and I can’t wait for what’s to come. He’s a true creative genius. Working with him one day would be a dream come true.
What’s the one album by a Canadian artist that everyone should have in their collection?
Mustafa – When Smoke Rises