South London-based rapper and producer Gwamz stops by to tell VIPER why this R&B classic is his favourite mixtape of all time...

What’s your favourite mixtape ever?

It’s technically an album, not a mixtape but H.E.R’s 2017 compilation. 

Why is it so significant to you?

The production, the songwriting, the way the music made me feel was something that was special and so it holds a special place in my heart.

Were there any artists or producers that you discovered through this tape?

I discovered Daniel Caesar through the album and that took me to another world where songwriting became more meaningful to me. Justin Love, who wrote ‘Focus’ is someone else I discovered; a brilliant songwriter, I’ve definitely taken some things from his book!

Where exactly were you when you heard the mixtape for the first time?

I don’t really remember exactly where I was but I remember listening to the project for the first time on SoundCloud and having that feeling where I’ve found a new artist who is just it! 

Did it come into your life at a significant time?

I would say it did, it definitely shaped my ability to write and produce music that can make the listener feel empathetic. That’s something that’s not easy to do and H.E.R does it so effortlessly.

How did the mixtape cover make you feel?

It made me feel like I was in Gabrielle Wilson’s shoes. The way she delivered each word was something else and the music behind her voice just made that feeling come to life.

Describe the mixtape in three words?

Work of art.

What song is your personal favourite and why?

I don’t think I could choose one so it’s definitely between ‘Focus’ and ‘Every Kind Of Way’.

If you could put a price on this mixtape, how much would you pay?

Anything! 

Did you have a physical copy?

No I didn’t, only digitally on Soundcloud.

No? Which is your favourite that you have a physical copy of?

I don’t own any physical copies but it might just be my next purchase now!

Gwamz’s single ‘Last Night’ is out now