Keeping track of new music, media and industry news.

Have you got that Friday feeling yet? If not, why the hell not? Get out of your chair, get yourself a Jägerbomb, get it down your gullet and get onto the dancefloor (or, depending on what time-zone you’re in, the nearest appropriate flat surface in your place of employment).

Or, alternatively, just press play on Leondro’s new single ‘Like That’ – the effect is much the same. The Toronto rapper’s latest release comes with his personal guarantee that it’ll “keep the ladies on the dance floor – even after the party is over”, and we’re delighted to help kick off your weekend with it. Leondro may have endured a troubled past (which you can read about in more depth on his website) but he’s clearly in the mood to celebrate. To join him in that celebration, we thought we’d fire over a few questions…

 

How is your life in Toronto now compared to when you were younger?

Well for starters, my mother doesn’t fold my clothes anymore ha ha, but most importantly my music is no longer a dream, it’s a reality. Creating new music and having it heard by people all over, including friends and families that I grew up with in Toronto is mind-blowing. Toronto was a great place to grow up in, and I’m just so excited to be launching my career in this amazing city. There’s no place like it!!!

I’M ON MY WAY!

Where would be the perfect place to listen to ‘Like That’?

Anytime, any place, it’s about the moment you know you need that energy. Blast it in the morning to wake up, blast it at night to party!! It’s a song that just makes you want to move!!

You were given a karoake machine aged five that changed your life – what was (still is?) your signature performance?

Michael Jackson’s ‘Will You Be There’, a classic, one of my all-time favourites! When I was five, Free Willy had just came out and there was just something about that song which always connected with me, and still does to this day.

… I can’t say I’ve performed it recently at all, that’s one exclusively for the shower, haha!

Who are the biggest musical influences on your sound/approach?

My number one influence would be Puff Daddy. He has always had an incredible drive. No matter what anybody ever told him he stayed on his hustle and made music the way he felt and still kept a smile on his face! I can’t wait for No Way Out 2 to come! No Way Out (97) was my first album.

What have you got lined up next?

I’m doing something truly amazing that is near and dear to my heart. I’ve been asked to perform a song called ‘Super Big’ on the Easter Seals Telethon on April 10th, 2016, which will also be the release date of that track. This is a great cause that I am so honoured to be part of. These kids that battle disabilities are the true superstars in my life. I am so thrilled to be able to help with such an amazing cause. I have set up a donation page on my website to help raise funds for these amazing kids. I would ask everyone to please help these incredible kids!!

Kier Wiater Carnihan