M. Rivers – Don’t Drink the Water

By starrymag | August 10, 2018

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) Which artist(s) do you feel inspire your sound the most?

 

A) A lot of late 60’s early 70’s stuff influenced my sound.  They range from soul records like Curtis Mayfield, James Brown, Al Green, Sam Cooke and Bill Withers to early rock records from artists like The Seeds, The Stooges, The Clash and Jimmy Hendrix.

 

Q) What inspired you to get into music?

 

A) I’ve always felt music from a very young age. I started writing songs early on and began recording by the age of 16.  I have the urge to create.

 

Q) You originally released music under the name Redlight King. Why did you make the transition from Redlight King to M. Rivers?

 

A) I felt the need to reinvent my sound and self, as my taste for the art and music I create changed and as I have evolved also as a human being; it was a simple decision to make.

 

Q) With this upcoming single release of “Don’t Drink The Water,” when can we look forward to a US album release?

 

A) I haven’t set a date for the album release. I have more than an album of material recorded.

 

Q) “Don’t Drink The Water” feels like a deviation from your last single “Champion,” with a Black Keys-style sound to it. Which single do you feel is more representative of your style?

 

A) Together they represent the range of the album.

 

Q) What was your inspiration behind “Don’t Drink the Water?”

 

A) I wanted to write a song that reflected the unethical nature of those in power and to inspire people to think for themselves.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the track that fans are connecting to?

 

A) Hopefully the message, but it’s okay if they just like way it grooves too.

 

Q) You were featured this year in the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s Tattoo Exhibit Artist Series. Of all the tattoos that you have, which one do you feel is most personal to you?  

 

A) They all are personal. Some have more meaning than others do, but mostly it’s about the process. That is what I love about tattoos. I’m still collecting of course.

 

Q) As a tattoo enthusiast, if you could choose your dream tattoo artist, who would it be and what would you have them tattoo on you?

 

A) If you had a time machine I would take a tiger head from Sailor Jerry.

 

Q) If you had the chance, who would be your dream collaboration?

 

A) Musically speaking most of my influences have passed on.  I always wanted to write a song with Tom Petty. Today in modern times there are so many amazing artists out there, it would be hard to pick just one.

 

Q) Are there any plans for a tour to promote the new single?  

 

A) A tour will absolutely be coming, so stay tuned.

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming soon?

 

A) All the material is recorded. I plan on releasing some more singles before the full length.

 

Q) What are you currently listening to?

 

A) A bit of everything.  A lot of alternative music right now: Dr. Dog, The Growlers, Spoon and The Clash.

 

Q) What would your advice be to up and coming artists trying to get into the business?

 

A) I feel that everyone’s path is different in this business as the landscape is always changing.  Work hard, stay humble and travel light.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your music?

 

A) I am so grateful to be able to do what I love for a living, so to my fans and supporters, I want to say I wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for you. Thank you.