Nightshade Noise is excited to announce the release of new single ‘Sideways, by Big Hitta and Wonkywilla. ‘Sideways’ is an EDM banger that invokes good feelings and party vibes! featuring catchy vocals and energetic festival style drops. ‘Sideways’ contains a balanced combination of Bass House and Electro-pop.
Listen to ‘Sideways’ on Spotify!
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Tell us about the first track that put you on the map in the electronic scene and the journey since. How did you get started?
Before I changed my moniker and brand, I used to go by Firkkranklin. I released a bootleg remix of Blackbear’s Hot Girl Bummer and that track took off on Soundcloud. At the time, I was still trying to figure out what avenue I wanted to take as an EDM producer. I experimented with trap, synth-pop, and dubstep. After releasing more remixes and a few original mixes, I decided to self release my first EP, the ‘Red Hat EP’. The EP received praise from many dubstep fans for the track, ‘Spaghettiman – VIP’, and Fitleague loved the energy. It still gets great rotation on Spotify. Fast forward a few months, I felt that a change was needed for myself – thus Big Hitta was born. As Big Hitta, I strive to fuse elements from House, Electro, Drum n Bass, & Dubstep, meanwhile cross blending those genres.
Tell us about your latest project ‘Sideways’
‘Sideways’ came about as a collaboration that was in the works for months. Myself and WonkyWilla connected in March 2020 via Instagram. We were constantly going back and forth with feedback and sharing individual projects. In June we discussed collaborating together on a track but it wasn’t until the end of July that we decided to actually make it happen. It all started with WonkyWilla sharing a house ID on his IG story and I knew as soon as I heard it, that we needed to work on something together asap. We immediately went back and forth with different ideas and 1 week later finished our song ‘Sideways’. We premiered an unreleased ‘Sideways’ on Space Yacht’s Tune Reactor and it received praise from everyone that was watching the stream. We knew that night that it was a banger and we were ready to share it with the world! ‘Sideways’ is all about having fun, enjoying life, and feeling good. With catchy lyrics and festival styled drops… ‘Sideways’ is an electro/bass house anthem!
Tell us something we wouldnt normally find out about you?
I love dad jokes, watching documentaries, saying corny pick up lines, and cooking latin food.
What single night out has been most memorable for you as a DJ and producer?
In 2014, I had the opportunity to perform for some of my most supportive friends and fans. Everyone came out that night to support me, have fun, and really showed me the most love. I am forever grateful.
Give us the name of one track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you listen to it?
September by Earth, Wind, & Fire
Dream collaboration and why?
Joyryde – because everything he makes SLAPS! Seriously. I would be honored.
If you could play any festival, which would it be?
Ultra Music Festival in Miami FL
How do you get a track started? tell us about your production process
I normally have a melody in mind before I even get started. Once I open up my DAW, I’ll figure out the bpm and start working on the drums. I’ll lay down some simple filler drums just to get the groove right. Then I’ll lay down the melody and build off of that. Depending on the key, mood, and genre – my production process can vary a bit but I always like to work from the beginning, to build the identity of the track. Setting the mood quickly is very important in my opinion.
Latest project? What are you currently working on?
I am currently in the process of finishing up 4 different bass house tracks. My goal is to release all 4 of those tracks before the end of 2020. And then in between those releases, also do a few remixes as well.
The relationship between a DJ and the audience is crucial, and yet is seems to be a fragile one – how do you see the balance between giving the crowd what they want and treating them to something new?
You’re right – it is all about balance. I feel that as entertainers, performers, creators, and artists, we have to do what is right for everyone. You have to understand who your audience is, adhere to their wants and needs, and also do what feels right for you. There is no easy answer to this, which unfortunately I feel is the reason why so many individuals quit. Everyone wants to hear something new but everyone also wants to hear something that they are familiar with. So the balance comes with taking chances and going with your gut. There is an overall method to madness and experience is key. So you have to just go for it, roll the dice, but be ready and prepared for the outcome. Also, on a side note, a true supporting audience will always vibe and have a good time. So be someone that an audience can connect with and relate to.
