Singer Ty McKinnie Drops New Single: "Chill"! (Interview)
Written By: Philip Johnson
We’re all relaxing more than usual in quarantine, and singer Ty Mckinnie just dropped the perfect single that is the world’s current mood: “Chill”! In this jazzy, vocally-soothing track, Ty sings about spending quality time with your bae. I got the chance to interview Ty about this new single and his music journey as a whole. Check it out, and stream “Chill”!
CLICK HERE to stream/buy “Chill” by Ty McKinnie!
What do you love most about your hometown: Atlanta?
Ahh man i love my hometown! I love how Black it is. The culture, the music, the food, the DANCES! It’s so Black and so calming to me. I knew Atlanta was called the Black Mecca growing up but i didn’t realize the truth in that until I moved to New York. The lack of Black spaces and southern hospitality KILLS me up here. FOREVA I LOVE ATLANTA!
When did you start singing and playing the guitar?
I started singing when I was 6 years old in school musicals. I didn’t pick up the guitar until I was 19. I always wanted to learn how to play but was too scared to do it. I ended up taking a class in college to force my hand and afterwards I started to teach myself by learning chords to songs that I liked.
You just released your new single: “Chill”! It’s perfect for quarantine haha. Talk us through the song’s inspiration!
So I wrote “Chill” back in 2016. I remember when I was writing the song, I wanted to talk about how chilling with a guy would make me happy. Just enjoying his company and talking about all the cute things we would do if he would just come over to my place. I’m a very simple guy so I don’t need much from a romantic partner. However, quality time is NON-NEGOTIABLE haha.
The raw instrumentation on “Chill” creates the jazzy vibe that transports listeners. Did you love jazz growing up?
So funny story, I didn’t enjoy Jazz growing up. People automatically think I’m a jazzhead but that’s totally not the case. I was a HUGE Pop music lover growing up but my parents were very conservative about what I listened to. So when we all would be in the car, my Dad would just put on the jazz station. I guess I absorbed all the music through osmosis or something haha. Now that I’m older I do like Jazz and have a high respect for Jazz musicians.
Your debut EP from 2017, “The Silhouette”, confronts obstacles & insecurities. How has that artistic expression shaped your journey?
That EP is the foundation of where I am at now in my musical journey. It was my first time recording in an actual studio and with a producer (Dr. Flips) who challenged me on all levels. He brought me out of my comfort zone and refined the sound I had at the time. ‘The Silhouette’ was also my first project I ever put up on all the streaming platforms so I felt like I was in the big leagues as an independent artist. I also produced my first music video for the project which was something I always wanted to do. Lots of firsts.
“Soul Searching”, your new EP in 2019, showcased your jazzy groove. Which song is your favorite?
I’d have to say “Mutual” is my fave. I really feel that song best represents the core of who I am as an artist. The process of making it was sooo smoove too. Like no hassle or anything. I love playing it live. It’s such a vibe.
Your music videos depict so much soul in New York City! What do you love about having NYC as your art’s backdrop?
I love having the city be my muse for music videos. Every neighborhood, street corner, train station is a backdrop just waiting to be used. The city is so cinematic and full of character. I can’t wait to use it for more videos once we figure out how to handle Miss Rona.
I love all of your videos, but “Crossroads” is my favorite! What do you love most about making music videos?
Awww thanks, that’s my videographer Michael Bryant’s favorite as well. I love telling stories with my videos. Growing up, I was obsessed with music videos and would decide if i like it based on the narrative of the video matching the story of the song. So when it comes to making my own, I make it my mission to bring my songs to life visually. I also wanted to make sure I do my part in pushing Black Queer Cinema to forefront. I want black queer kids growing up to look at my videos and see themselves in my work. Having that in mind gives me the push to make sure my videos are done right!
Tell us about your favorite live performance experience!
My favorite live performance has to be when I performed “Mutual” for the first time at Little Skips Cafe here in Brooklyn. I was nervous AF but as soon as the audience caught on to the hook and started singing along with me I was over the moon! I was like “Oh Shit, yall fuck with it!” which as an artist is a huge compliment. This one guy in the audience was even singing the 2nd pre-chorus with me which felt so cool. Funny enough that cafe is actually where I shot the music video for the song. #FullCircleMoment
How has your experience pursuing your singing career in NYC been these past few Years?
Whew! It’s been tough, no lie. Surviving in NYC alone is a challenge. Being here makes you hustle though cause everyone else is doing it too. That’s kind of the comfort of being here, you know folks who are going through the same thing. It’s definitely brought the more soulful elements in my music. Guess the struggles had something to do with it haha.
You recently graduated from NYU’s Music Business program. What was the highlight of your experience?
Hmmm I’d have to say graduation haha. The program was intense. I had to do so much coursework along with working part-time jobs and recording music. It all felt like a blur to be honest. However walking the stage of the iconic Radio City Music Hall with my friends who are now my family was a moment I’ll never forget. * Inserts Whitney Houston meme *
what are your dream collaborations?
There’s literally too many but my Most Definitely is Tori Kelly.
How do you envision your next era looking?
My next era is more on the happier side of things. I’m channeling my inner child, making the type of songs I wanted to hear when I was younger. I’m definitely showing off more confidence this time around. Can’t wait for you and the rest of the world to hear it.
