[FEATURE] VIPER PRESENTS: GUILTYBEATZ

Having worked with superstars like Beyoncé, Major Lazer and Tems, GuiltyBeatz is the Ghanaian/Italian producer known for his unique fusion of Afrobeats, electronic and dance music which has earned him a dedicated global following. Following the release of ‘I’m Good‘ with Ms Banks and Hamzaa, get familiar with this VIPER interview…

What three words define your sound?

Unique

Energetic

Soulful

Tell me something unique about your Creative process

I’ve got a great ear for tone-selection, drum patterns chord progressions, which in turn makes my productions unique.

Which song of yours would you like people to hear first?

My most recent single ‘I’m Good’ featuring the queens Ms Banks and Hamzaa. But also of the tracks I’ve produced, ‘Avoid Things’ by Tems.

What inspired you to make that song?

I was in a good headspace and environment when I made ‘Avoid Things’, I have to thank God for blessing me with the song because I literally heard the beat in my head and went to record it straight away. With ‘l’m Good’, the inspiration came from some Ms Banks vocals I had from a song we recorded in 2021. The lyrics are powerful and I decided to make song that encourages self love, value and knowing that everything works out for our GOOD. I sent Hamzaa the record and she understood the assignment.

What’s the most vulnerable you’ve allowed yourself to be when writing/making music? 

Honestly, I think nine times out of 10 you’re being vulnerable, you’re sharing a piece of you when you’re recording. But I think with what I’m doing next, I’m taking people in a new direction of my sound; I’m going to be sharing more of my world.

What’s the best/worst experience you’ve had on stage?

The best has to be Boiler Room in Amsterdam. The crowd’s energy was incredible and I could feel it all around me.

What is your favourite song to perform?

Ok so I love trying my new edits out in live sets so it changes every time but I feel like it gives the people in the space an exclusive moment. A moment only for that night/day.

Which artist/song/album made you want to make music?

George Benson and his Album ‘Breezing’. Also David Benoit – ‘Every Step Of The Way.

What’s the meaning behind your name?

I had a T-shirt with the Inscription “Guilty” on it. My friends liked it, started calling me “guilty” and I added “beatz” to make it Guiltybeatz as my brand was growing.

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing instead?

I’d either be a pilot or social worker.

What’s success to you?

As long as I’m able to release music I love, take care of myself, family and community I consider myself successful.

What moment in your life/career forced you to change direction?

Back in 2016 when I got tired of artists taking advantage of me, I decided to release music myself as a producer/ DJ.

Where can people keep in touch with you?

On all socials @guiltybeatz OR come see me live – I love meeting people who listen to my music.