Inspired #432 - DARGZ
NYC-born, London-based alt-jazz producer DARGZ is back with his new single 'Save You'. Being released on his own label - Studio Dargz, the track is a smooth, funk-infused piece.
With soulful vocals over an upbeat piano riff that radiates shimmery optimism. With airtight grooves, the single is exceptionally well-crafted and organic, blending modern jazz with contemporary funk and hip-hop. The release marks a significant milestone – it is the first time DARGZ has ever used his own vocals on a track.
He took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind his music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
A Tribe Called Quest for me have always been the Beatles of Hip Hop. The band that took it the furthest and reinvented the genre. also representing NYC
Thelonious Monk is someone who is a big inspiration. I love the off beat rhythms and the way he makes notes that should be so wrong and sound so right.
Haim - They are the modern day Fleetwood Mac. Their production is always super interesting and their songs are old school gems. Pop in the best sense of the word
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
The documentary Jazz On A Summer's Day is just a beautifully shot festival film with some incredible performances. Watching the audience and the style in 1959 is just as good as watching the musicians. Captures the essence of American music.
What city do you find the most inspiring and why?
New York, my hometown, is an obvious inspiration in how jam packed of energy it is. Roaming the streets that every great rapper, jazz musician, composer in the past 100 years has walked down gives you a feeling. London now though has something special happening, jazz is infused in R&B, Rap, Afrobeat in a way unlike anywhere else so it's the place to be!
Who is the most inspiring person to you and why?
My little baby girl shows me what humanity is all about. For her it's all about joy, curiosity and love. Something to keep reminding ourselves of.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
These new tracks were a big deep dive into singing as I've never sung on a DARGZ track before. I love the feeling in D'angelo's falsetto and people like Jungle, Dijon and Mk.gee who are currently making really soulful music.
How would you like to inspire people?
It's incredible when people send messages that the songs got them through a tough time, or even soundtracked happy times. its always reassuring that this is a great pursuit and that the music is being heard and enjoyed by people.
