Lyan set to roar

by Asjad Nazir

RAPIDLY RISING star Lyan is making a name for himself with memorable music and an unforgettable appearance where he is hidden behind a big lion’s mask.

The British-Asian music producer has worked with a number of diverse artists to deliver big

songs, which are adding to his fast-growing reputation. With more major projects on the way, including solo releases, he is part of an exciting new wave to watch out for.

I caught up with Lyan for a free flowing conversation about music, that eye-catching mask,

inspirations and future hopes.

What first connected you to music?

Unlike some, I wasn’t born into a musical family. I was introduced to producing when I was in school, and the connection I felt to creating music from nothing is a feeling I kept wanting. I became obsessed with that and since then, I’ve never wanted to let it go.

Who were your biggest musical influences growing up?

I grew up in London so UK grime was a massive influence when I was young. Everything was a ‘riddim’ back then, and I jumped on that wave too. Away from grime, I was always a big fan of famous hip hop producers who really pushed the sound, like Timabland, Pharell and Swizz Beatz.

How would you describe your time in the music industry so far?

It has been a very educational journey. I’ve spent most of my time in the industry learning new production techniques, how to do interviews, how to be an artist and everything else.

How did you feel when your first song came out?

I was very excited. I recently dropped my first single One Thing featuring Serel Yereli. We didn’t have any expectations, we just wanted to get the track out there, but we never realised how loved Serel was. Every 10 minutes I was refreshing the video, and the views were going up 1,000 or so at a time. It was crazy – the music video hit a million views in a week.

Which of your songs has given you the most joy?

A few years back I worked on a project called Jaanatki with Mumzy Stranger. I had the most fun with the project. He gave me the vocals, left to get food for our session and 30 minutes later, the track was ready and we knew it was a banger.

Tell us about that lion mask and how many of them do you own?

The mask is me, I am the mask and I only own one. Only one exists.

Is the lion your favourite animal?

Of course. The lion is the king.

What are some of the things you are working on at the moment?

I have massive projects on the way, but I can’t disclose too much right now. But my management team and I have some big releases this year.

Which of your unreleased songs are you most excited about?

I’m dropping so many hot records this year. A lot of my solo stuff will have wicked artists on them. I’m also executive producing Mumzy Stranger’s upcoming album Secret.

Do you have a set way of working?

There is no set way, but first I need something to inspire me like a sound, a loop or a song. It can be anything.

What is your musical master plan?

I want my music to resonate with everyone around the world; in the UK, the US, Brazil, Japan, everywhere.

Who would you love to collaborate with?

I really want Justin Bieber on a top line for a future single.

What music dominates your own play list?

As clichéd as it sounds, I’ve got a bit of everything. One second I’m vibing to Travis Scott, the next Hans Zimmer and then suddenly it’s a 2000’s throwback.

What is the biggest challenge you face as a young artist?

Believing in yourself. There will be so many obstacles that’ll make you challenge yourself, but you need to believe in yourself, and continue growing until you reach your destination.

Who is the most interesting person you have met on your musical travels?

I’ve met some big hitters since I’ve started in music, but Mumzy Stranger has to be the most interesting. I spend a lot of time with him, so I often see him going from being a father of three to a bashment/r’n’b singer, all in five minutes.

Will you be performing live?

I still haven’t made my debut as a live performer, but all that’s about to change this year.

If you could ask any singer, dead or alive, a question, who would it be and what would you ask?

I would ask Michael Jackson, ‘How did you get the strength to continue, even when at times it seemed like the whole world was against you?’

What are your big passions away from music?

I’m a crazy football fan. I’m also a fool for adventure and nice views.

What inspires you as an artist?

The desire to inspire others.

Finally, why do you love music?

Why do we breathe?