Today, we are speaking with Miami-based artist Tony Valor. Can you give us a little background information about yourself? How did you get into music?
Well I’ve been into music since I was a little kid. I would always observe my father when he was working on his projects as early as 3 Years old. I Tried to observe the most I could before getting into the practice of music. I knew since the beginning that this I what I wanted to be. I come from the USA originally but I’ve lived much of my childhood elsewhere. Lived in China for a few years of my childhood and then went back to America.
What sort of work have you put into the recording and creative processes for your music?
I like to build my songs from scratch. That includes singing, producing, recording, and sometimes even making the choreographies for that singles music video. When it comes to the producing field of the business I’m not really a fan of samples. And yes it does get difficult and requires patience because good ideas don’t come just like that all the time. but with the endless effort and countless hours of trial and error you can develop yourself to be the “sample maker” rather than the sample taker sorta speak. Once you’ve honed that skill you can be unstoppable.
What does your recording set up look like (what do you use to record, what are your favorite tools)?
I’ve started with protools and I will always love & use pro tools. It’s actually a pretty nice studio set we spent a lot of time building it. I was 16 at the time. One of my favorite plugins (programs) I use for sounds and quality is nexus!! I love nexus!! Highly recommended if you’re a music maker!!!
Tell us a bit more about your new single, D’ Nah Nah (Shaky Bum, Bum). There’re a few different versions of it, correct?
Yes there are 3 versions. 2 versions (English/Spanish) with an artist from Romania called Zuka. The third version is with a Philippine group called 4th impact. My intentions for the listener with this single in particular is to have fun!! It’s a really fun song to jam to, dance to, and you can do pretty much anything else with it LOL;)
How does this song introduce you to listeners that may not be familiar with your music?
I like to think it reaches out to various types of audiences. The song is very culturally oriented. It has a lot of hip-hop, regeton, middle eastern, and pop elements. My intentions not only as an artist but as an entrepreneur is to expand my horizons, grow in every aspect and business venture that comes my way. To me it’s the only way to achieve that “global reach”.
Which artists are the greatest influences for you? Is there a dream lineup of performers that you would like to perform with if given the chance?
The true influence is A lot of oldies!!! For instance, Charlie Parker, Eric Clapton, Metallica, the Beatles, Benny Goodman, Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin, the police Neil young etc. I’d love to perform with Justin Timberlake, Katy perry, bad bunny, faruko, The Weeknd, daft punk, future, wiz Khalifa, and Rihanna.
Which sort of social media website have you had the best successes with? What about these online services are different from the traditional face to face meeting and performances that musicians utilize?
I love instagram!! That’s where I’m active the most!! The difference is everyone is connected because of the internet. So without question you’ve a better chance at reaching out to many more through technology than doing it in person.
What should listeners expect from your music in the future? How can interested NeuFutur readers locate samples of your music? How has the radio/Pandora/Spotify/other online response been for your music?
I wouldn’t even know what to expect from myself. We evolve everyday. As far as response is concerned I’ve gained enough notoriety and support to get me to this point in my career. A couple million views on my music videos and more engagement in social media than ever before. I’m great full however never satisfied. Everyday we only progress.
How’s Miami different than New York (e.g. culture, music, life)?
Miami has an extreme urban culture with the current generations. Also it’s a very different mentality down south compared to up north. The music choice is actually similar in both states. Life in newyork is very fast paced. Down here we don’t have subways and a millions taxis .
What does 2018 hold for your music?
A Tony Valor you haven’t seen before. Many new styles and genres that I’ve adapted to and learned to love! Stay tuned!
Thank you so much for your time. Finally, do you have any additional thoughts about life and the universe for our readers?
When you fail and it stings, remember it’s not about how hard you can hit it. It’s about how hard you can get hit! Grow from your struggle. If there ain’t no struggle there ain’t no progress!! The struggle is the very thing that lets you see the value in your achievements and molds your thicker skin.