Music is at it’s best when it invokes uncertainty, excitement and surprise. It is to this end that artist/producer Suspence devotes his musical aspirations, crafting intelligent lyrics about life’s struggles over rugged, in your face grooves.
Suspence, also known as ‘Diamond Boy Wonder’, was born in Southern Africa. Due to his family moving overseas, Spence grew up in Toronto, Canada where he absorbed the rich musical mosaic. His influences include Kanye West, Will.i.am, Wyclef Jean and Outkast. This eclectic artist sings, raps, writes and produces all of his own original material. He defines his musical style as “electro-hiprock” which he describes as a “funky fusion of electro, hip hop and rock.”
Suspence has also formed an independent hip hop label Hot Jewlz Entertainment which is dedicated to promoting good honest music. “Hip hop has been held captive by too many fantasy tales and unattainable lifestyles. I’ve always tried to be honest with my music.” Suspence launched the “Keep it Honest” music campaign in 2007 with his hilarious satirical music video “Ballin’ on a Budget”.
This artist is a prolific and personal songwriter. “No matter how many times you’ve been knocked down, you’ve got to get up and try again, and that also sums up why I do what I do, it’s music therapy.” The theme of music as therapy is interwoven in his music, as he often shows a sense of vulnerability, allowing the listener to access his innermost thoughts and feelings. Love lost, career disappointments, hopes, politics, and community involvement are all topics that Suspence addresses with humilty and humour.
Suspence has also been active in the community, volunteering at festivals and special community concerts like the East Africa Famine Relief Concert. “I always try to address issues such as AIDS and poverty that are close to my heart. I have an internationaI music focus, and I want to give back through my art and time.”
Currently Suspence is in studio producing new recordings, and working towards a publishing contract. He is also preparing for a “Life Skill: Music and Sport” tour throughout UK and South African schools in 2009. “We hope to provide some music and life skill training, while tackling issues that affect us all.”
