In the realm of fashion-forward R&B pop, Deney Adam is a rising star known for his sensual and soulful tracks that intimately explore themes of grief and toxic relationships. With a futuristic sound that draws inspiration from artistic influences such as The Weeknd, Banks, and Sevdaliza, Deney is captivating audiences with his unique musical journey.
However, with his latest single, “No Reward,” this West Indian artist takes a bold detour, delivering a cocky and hypnotic Calypso-inspired anthem that celebrates his confidence and the relentless pursuit of his dreams. In an intriguing twist, Deney reveals that the creation of “No Reward” was a departure from his usual emotionally charged style. This fresh single embodies the message of hard work and dedication to one’s goals, while simultaneously encouraging the celebration of the journey itself. Deney emphasizes that the process of creation is its own reward, reminding us to let loose and revel in the pursuit of our dreams.
Deney’s deep-rooted love for music blossomed at the tender age of 3 within the walls of his local church. Born in St. Maarten and later moving to the United States, Deney’s musical style flourished as he absorbed the vibrant influences of New York City’s famed house music, merging them with pop and R&B elements.
The electrifying “No Reward” is just a taste of what listeners can expect from Deney’s debut EP, ‘Red Lights’, set to be released this summer. Deney’s meticulous craftsmanship shines throughout the upcoming EP, which he describes as a cathartic release from his past. ‘Red Lights’ chronicles the highs and lows of loss and illuminates the transformative journey of self-discovery that ultimately led Deney to his true artistic identity.
As Deney Adam continues to captivate audiences with his edgy and soulful sound, his latest single, “No Reward,” serves as a testament to his versatility as an artist. With the highly anticipated EP, Red Lights, on the horizon, Broke Magazine chats with Deney as he invites listeners to join him on a musical expedition where passion meets confidence.
Your latest single, “No Reward,” takes a different direction from your previous tracks, incorporating a Calypso-inspired sound. Can you tell us more about the creative process behind this song and how it represents a shift in your musical style?
Making this song was probably the most fun I had, from writing it, to the recording, down to that visuals. Since my whole EP Red Lights is a reflection of my life–well…the sad part of my life–I wanted “No Reward” to feel a bit more happy and vibey. I’m an artist and I’m forever evolving. I don’t want to put myself in a box and say, “Oh, I’m only making this type of music.” So I don’t wanna call it a shift, I go with the flow of whatever I’m feeling at the moment. That’s what will come out and I think that’s when the best ideas come together.
Your debut EP, “Red Lights,” is set to release this summer. Could you give us a glimpse into the themes and emotions we can expect to hear on the EP, especially considering your description of it as your “release from the past”?
Red Lights is a diary of my life, specifically a chapter I want to close but not forget. There is a lot of emotion, grief, and drama that I wasn’t dealing with properly. This EP is very therapeutic for me. Looking back at that chapter now through the music, I’m just so proud of how resilient I’ve been.
As a former celebrity makeup artist, you made a significant career shift into pursuing music. How has your background in the beauty industry influenced your artistic vision and overall aesthetic as a musician
I wouldn’t call it a career shift necessarily, I think my artistry as a makeup artist and musician kind of blend together. I’m an artist first and these two mediums are ways of expressing it. I love makeup so much and fell into it by accident. Now I’ve gotten to work with some incredible artists and celebrities I admire so much. Music though has been my entire life. I knew I wanted to be a musician since I can remember. No matter what direction life takes me, it always seems to bring me back to singing. I think being in the entertainment and fashion industries as a makeup artist has tremendously influenced the way I approach things creatively.
Growing up in St. Maarten and then moving to the States, how have these different cultural influences shaped your musical style and lyrical themes?
I moved here when I was super young, so technically I grew up listening to American music. R&B, Pop and Gospel music was always playing in the background at home. Mariah, Whitney and Michael reigned supreme throughout my childhood. My heritage and culture was always there of course. As I began my musical journey, I wanted to reconnect with the music of my culture and rediscovered my love for Afrobeats.
You’ve mentioned that your love for music began at a very young age in church. How do you think that early exposure to gospel music has influenced the way you approach songwriting and performing today?
I’m a very emotional performer. I like to feel every word when I sing. I think maybe that’s why I love sad songs [laughs]. I don’t belt out notes but I will make you feel everything that I want you to with my sweet and soft voice. It’s a different kinda gospel if you ask me. It’s intimate but still soulful.
Fashion plays a significant role in your image as an artist, and you’re often described as fashion-forward. How do you incorporate your personal style and visual aesthetics into your music videos and live performances?
Fashion and style is everything for an artist. It’s secondary to your actual talent but I feel like they go hand in hand…the visual aesthetic for me tells a story that’s paired with the music but it also creates a safe space for me to fully be myself. When that drag is on, I feel untouched and it allows me to be vulnerable by pushing the boundaries with my looks.
Your songs often explore personal experiences of grief and toxic relationships. How do you navigate the process of sharing such vulnerable emotions through your music while maintaining a sense of empowerment and strength?
Therapy. Hah! But for real, songwriting has been a game changer. It’s almost kind of like a self reflection and out of body experience. I take all the baggage, make it beautiful and let it go.
Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for your music career? Are there any particular collaborations or projects you have your sights set on in the future?
My goal has always been to simply connect. Of course there are plenty artists I would like to collab with, but for now I wanna put all my energy on this upcoming EP and focus on really pushing it.
Photography by Hope Glassel
Styled by Mateo Palacio