Q&A with Harmz

Harmz (Photo by: Sarah Wai)

On September 8, Harmz dropped his latest EP, "BETTER WATCH," a musical journey that embodies themes of resilience, ambition and personal growth. Beyond his music, Harmz ventures into acting and filmmaking, showcasing his dedication to diverse artistic expressions. He's also a co-founder of PRZM, a record label and media company, illustrating his commitment to shaping his own path in the industry. Following his recent EP release, “Better Watch,” we caught up with Harmz to discuss what he’s been up to.

Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind your new EP? Are there any specific themes or experiences?

Since I started this musical journey, my personal experiences have been the driving force behind my songs. "BETTER WATCH" is a culmination of my challenges, from the times I penned verses during school to watching my mother juggle two jobs. As I evolved as an artist, so did the skepticism and doubt from others. However, with each track in this EP, I've tried to encapsulate my resilience in my journey from being the underdog to proving every doubter wrong.  

The overarching theme of this EP is about evolution and growth. I want listeners to sense my transformation - from my early days to where I stand today in the music scene. While there's a bit of glamour attached to fame, the grind and reality behind it are what I've tried to emphasize. Through every beat and lyric, my ambition shines, aiming for a future where I remain relevant, respected, and at the top of my game. It's a reflection of my relentless pursuit to carve a unique space for myself in the industry.

How has your music evolved since you released your debut album?

I've discovered my unique sound and have identified my niche in the music industry. I'm clear about the message I want to convey through my songs, and I understand my own capabilities. My music has matured both lyrically and sonically. Through the creation of "Better Watch," I embarked on a profound personal journey in knowing who I am and what I stand for.

How do you balance your creative energies between music, acting and filmmaking? Do you find one form of expression influences the others?

I often segment my life into seasons, with each season bringing in a fresh chapter. For instance, last year, I delved deep into acting, securing roles in shows like 'Sullivan’s Crossing' and 'Washington Black.' This year, I'm gravitating towards my musical aspirations, releasing more tracks than before. As for next year? who knows, maybe you'll get a new short film from me – wink wink. Ultimately, being an artist for me is about embracing a range of creative expressions; I can't be confined to just one box.

What can you tell us about PRZM? How did it get started? How do you see it evolving?

PRZM is a record label and media company that my lifelong friends and I founded back in high school. The concept for PRZM developed with a young Alex, my producer (known as Acalus), who began delving into electronic music production during his early teens. As the years progressed, he connected with like-minded individuals who shared the same vision. My team and I reached a pivotal realization: in order to make meaningful progress, we needed to take action immediately, without procrastination. Instead of waiting for external validation, it was crucial that we find a representation that truly echoed our collective identity in the music industry. Rather than spending time and resources searching for a music label that might acknowledge our potential, we chose to validate ourselves. We decided to take our destiny into our own hands, underscoring our commitment to our art and our seriousness about our place in the industry.

You made a short- documentary, “Youth, Hip-hop and Halifax.” In it, Jody Upshaw talked about the lack of all-ages venues in the city. Can you speak to the importance of all-ages music venues in the city?

All-age music venues in Halifax play a crucial role in fostering the growth of emerging and undiscovered artists and ensuring that music remains accessible to everyone, regardless of age. These venues not only support the local music scene but also strengthen the city's cultural fabric by promoting inclusivity and diversity. Without the help of an all-ages venue, I don't think I would be where I am today.

How do you view your journey in the music industry and what advice would you give young aspiring artists looking to make their mark?

I'd like to say that my journey in the music industry is just beginning, and while there's still a long road ahead, I appreciate every part of it — the ups, the downs, and everything in between. To artists just setting out: take the first step. You won't get anywhere by remaining static; sometimes, you need to take that leap of faith and see where it leads.

What messages or feelings do you hope listeners will take away from “Better Watch"?

I know for a fact the EP will take the listeners on a thrilling roller coaster ride, into the twists and turns of my consciousness. Each track offers its own surprise and sonic journey. For instance, "Better Watch" echoes the relentless grind of my creative spirit, underscoring the message that I'm ready to command respect in the East Coast music scene. With its six tracks, the EP is a rich blend of soul, ambition, and introspective growth, underpinning the essential message for fellow artists: never shy away from a challenge.

Harmz’s EP, “Better Watch,” is out now. The music video for the title track drops on Sunday, September 24.

Stay up-to-date with Harmz on Instagram at @harmz_so_hype and @przmlabel.