Issue 001 - AMEN.

The 99 Collective: "Could you introduce yourself to The 99 Collective?"

yo! I’m AMEN. I’m a 19 year old artist from Bournemouth on the south coast of the UK.

 

The 99 Collective: "How much of influence has Bournemouth & your faith been on your music?"

I would say that it gives me a different perspective on life to a large amount of other artists in the rap scene who all live in big cities. It’s something that helps me to stand out. In terms of faith, I think I have a real appreciation for Gods creation as the place I live is so diverse in terms of that.

 

The 99 Collective: "Besides your faith, what or who inspires your music?"

Life in general, past present and future, it all plays a huge part in my writing. The people in my life influence or inspire some of the songs too. Sonically I would say my music is inspired by the underground UK scene at the moment that is just exploring creative and unique sounds.

The 99 Collective: "What inspired you to make music?"

If I was to put it simply, it would be my love for listening to music. But it was brought on by a serious footballing injury which gave me more time to listen to and think about music. I just decided to chase it as a passion from that point.

 

The 99 Collective: "Describe your music in one sentence?"

one word, wavey.

 

The 99 Collective: "How do you want people to react to the EP?"

I want people to just take it in and enjoy the listening experience. If they’re existing fans I want them to see my growth and hear some versatility. If they’re new listeners then just to get to know who I am and what I stand for. All in all I want them to see promise and potential.

 

 

The 99 Collective: "How would you describe seasoning?"

The meaning I wanted to convey was growth/improvement over time. I would describe the EP as a showcase of that growth and improvement through a versatile mix of songs.

 

The 99 Collective: "What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in music so far?"

I would say networking more than anything. Coming from Bournemouth I’ve struggled to make those connections that artists in London or other big cities get from events or opportunities . Fortunately God has brought people into my life but even still it’s hard to network how I would want to and show face at events.

The 99 Collective: "Where did the name ‘AMEN.’ come from?"

Originally when I was trying to come up with an artist name I just wanted something short, maybe 4/5 letters. Then I was just thinking through faith based words with that length and AMEN. just clicked.

 

The 99 Collective: "What song means the most to you?"

‘worth it all’ means a lot to me. For a while it was my attitude and thought process towards my faith, but I managed to shift my mindset and that song depicts that mental battle. It’s very personal but I think a lot of Christians can relate to the feeling too.

 

The 99 Collective: "What is the music scene like in Bournemouth?"

There are a few talented artists coming up in the Bournemouth scene, but it’s still very much underdeveloped and in its infancy. Who knows, give it a few years and it could be a different story…

 

The 99 Collective: "Who’s your favourite artist and what’s your favourite song?"

Right now I would say there’s no like standout favourite, bro I listen to wayyyy to much music to have a favourite! I take a lot of inspiration from artists like Namesbliss and SAMSON as they’re really paving the way in the new scene for artists with a positive message. Sonically I really enjoy Bawo’s music as he’s so versatile, similarly Knucks. Also gotta shout out my boys, T1MI, LIO RAFA and Blac!

The 99 Collective: "When did you have that moment that this MUST be God?"

When I was 18, just a massive conviction to live my life the way he’s planned. He’s given me a gift to use and keeps putting things in place and growing me in it.

 

The 99 Collective: "How would you explain Christianity to a non-believer?"

It’s the best relationship you can have. It costs nothing, but you gain everything. It’s a fulfilling life and sustains you and keeps you content, opens doors you never knew would open. You just have to be willing to give up your old life and exchange it for one that ultimately will bring you more joy in the process of giving yourself up to Jesus.