Clifford is a fantastic and brilliant singer, songwriter, and composer from Westminster, Maryland in the United States.
Clifford, a US/UK citizen residing in the United States, has educated himself to speak English, French, Arabic, and rural Maryland twangs, which he integrates into his music to give it that enticing vibe.
Clifford’s “vision” continues with the impending publication “Close to Me.” The production explores dance rhythms, softer bass, and deeper kicks than in prior tracks, combining pop and house music.
I had a heart-to-heart with him, and this is what he said about his profession.
What is your real name?
Clifford Reeves
What’s your official Stage Name (showbiz name)?
Clifford
How did you get into what you do with music?
I was in my first band by 13 where I played the drums and sang. Music and languages seem to go hand in hand so I studied French and Arabic in School. During this time I continued with my music performing at school events.
Due to my fluency languages became other people’s focus on me and I was sought after to do clandestine work. Crazy! Then I injured my Achilles heel and was laid up for 13 months. Unable to do much, I began a Twitch channel.
Other than playing games I sang covers for people. Eventually, I found all my followers tuning in to the music more than the gaming and it became clear music was my future. And here I am.
What field or genre are you into and give a brief description?
I genre blend. My music is a mix of various styles like Indie, Pop, R&B, Synth, Singer/songwriter, Commercial, House, and Classical. As each song’s story evolves I choose the genres most suited to tell that story.
Due to my language studies, cultural influences are also prevalent in my music. I write about social issues and other times I write about love. But mostly I write about whatever truths I feel I need to express.
What were your first project and the people you worked with and which year?
Thus far I’ve worked alone on my music. I write, produce and perform all of it myself.
I have collaborated with a few people, including a Grammy award winner, but as it was early days in my music career when Covid began, it has been tough for me to expand beyond myself. But hopefully, that’s changing.
How many projects do you have so far?
Countless! Haha! I’m never at a loss when it comes to creative musical projects. As far as the business side I’ve got some exciting prospects brewing.
Who or what inspires you or motivates you? And why??
What motivates me are the countless musical possibilities. Once I realized I didn’t have to stick with any one genre the sky opened up to me and I’ve never looked back. As for who, definitely my family.
Any models you look up to? [With reason(s) why]?
I grew up listening to anything from Mozart to Bowie, then from Cash to Eminem in my teens. Once I began learning languages, my music listening expanded to Fairouz, Stromae, Amr Diab, Yo-Yo Ma and so many others.
These amazing artists have created an explosion of music diversity in my head that I can’t help but include in my music arrangements. Other influences include The Temptations, Jerome Brailey, Blind Willie Johnson, Drake, Kool & The Gang, Parliament, and xxxTentacion.
What do you look out for in this business or what do you look out for in this line of business?
I just left Spotify so I guess what I’m looking out for are solid opportunities where I can be creative and enjoy sustainability as well.
Have you won an award, or been nominated for an award? Or in short, any achievement? Both in and out of your career path.
I was inducted into The Phi Beta Kappa Society (ΦΒΚ) which is the oldest academic honour society in the US.
What is your current project about?
I work on several at a time, so as far as the song after “Close to Me”…who knows haha.
What are your hobbies?
I love to cook! Particularly Italian but all types of cuisines. I treat cooking like my music, I use it as a way to challenge myself and explore.
What do you do aside from this profession?
I live on a farm that has its share of responsibilities. Aside from that, I try to stay fit through callisthenics and boxing. I love video games and I dabble in photography.
