INTERVIEW: Dream Pop from Cheena Monsoon

South London-based artist and producer Cheena Monsoon has been making his mark in the underground music scene for a few years now. Known for his emotive playing and unique production style, Cheena has been winning over fans with his blend of hip hop, pop, rock and electronic music. Growing up between different cultures and perspectives, his music is a reflection of this background, with each track serving as a distillation of his own experience. As he puts it, “Each song is a battle, a raw transfer of emotion. The aim is to retain its essence.”

In 2019, he set out to share his unique musical vision with the world, taking inspiration from artists such as David Bowie and The Strokes. First unveiling his sound that year, he released his debut single “You Need to Give” which he’s since followed up with multiple stellar single and live versions while performing at venues across London to bring his music alive on stage.

Known for his intimate and sometimes pitched vocals, fusion of synths, guitars and catchy beats, he’s been going from strength to strength with each artistic move. This year has already seen the release of two singles, “Greater Than the Sum of Our Parts” and “Feel Something,” both of which have been building anticipation for his upcoming debut album, Make Me Lighter, set to drop this autumn.

Now, Cheena Monsoon offers us a third taste of his debut album with the release of his latest single titled “Ace Queen.” Written in the quiet hours of the night while Cheena was playing the electric piano in his bedroom, “Ace Queen” is a song that perfectly captures Cheena’s musical philosophy; authentic, heartfelt and entirely his own.

Watch the music video for Ace Queen below

Revolving around themes of love and devotion, the Cheena uses the metaphor of being and angel to represent a caring relationship. Wrapped up in a tender, dream pop sound, the gentle tones of piano and laid back taps of percussion set an inviting atmosphere as Cheena’s airy voice enters to spin delicate melodies via emotive performance above.

Casting an enchanting sound of graceful arrangement and heartwarming lyricism, “Ace Queen” presents a blissful listening experience of soothing aesthetic and meaningful songwriting. Delivering a truly charming sound that’s impossible not to love, Cheena Monsoon offers a stunning display of his moving and enduring musical output. We caught up with Cheena to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Ace Queen” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Cheena Monsoon below.

Hey Cheena, how’s things?

I’m good, thanks. I’m happy my new song Ace Queen is out!

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

When I was about 9 years old, I wrote a parody song about first names in primary school. I think that was the first song I wrote! It had a key change and went from major to minor, more complex than most of the stuff I write now. It was quite catchy!

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

I’ve been inspired by so many over the years, but some have stayed: David Bowie, The Strokes! I can always listen to their songs. My favourite guitarists are Jan Akkerman and Paco de Lucía.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

I try to experience many things and explore different perspectives. My relationship to society, people, and their unique relationships with themselves and those around them. That’s all I do really. A constant search. Once in a blue moon, when you’re lucky, a melody or lyric will appear, and you might be able to write a song. When the planets are aligned!

What’s been your highlight of the year so far?

Finishing my first album and subsequently going on a trip to the US. Discovering Boston, the coast of Maryland, and the mountains of Denver. I loved it!

What do you love about the London music scene?

The diversity and influences from all over the world. It’s so multi-dimensional in art, music, culture. Very inspiring.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Maybe when you’re on a bus or a train. Or at an afterparty!

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

I used to only write my songs on guitar. Now the process can start from pretty much anything. A beat, chords on a piano, or a cool synth sound. I guess my songwriting and sound have diversified.

Has your production process changed over the years too?

On my debut album, I’ve tried to explore new sounds and focus on the elements of my own songwriting that are more interesting to me. I’ve covered many new themes in my songs and lyrics. On ‘Fleeting Like Violas’ and ‘Feel Something’, I’ve integrated street recordings, which breaks some kind of barrier. You are there with me. It makes the songs more real, and you can literally hear South London. I think I’ve found a more coherent sound as well!

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Maybe Tems… Or Rosalía!

How did you find making your new single ‘Ace Queen’?

It happened late one night… I remember playing it on the piano and singing the first lines… It was quite magical, I felt quite emotional. Although I couldn’t share that moment with anyone, I knew it was meaningful. Then one afternoon, I layered 10 guitars for the second part and added one more sound. It all fell into place.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

If anything, I wanted to get across the original intention and expression of the song. Tadi Bravo directed a beautiful music video for it. She also did the incredible styling. Miza Zani-Dore plays the lead role of “Ace Queen”. She’s magnificent! Also, shout out to Dani Mathers for makeup and Grodekks for the graphics.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Public Image Ltd and the new Clairo album!

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

I don’t believe in messages or purposive art, but I do believe my music reflects a lot of what’s going on in our society. Not only in my personal life but also in society, and more specifically, London!

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

I played my new songs in Ghent last September, that was really special! Everyone seemed to be connecting and we were all enjoying ourselves.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

If dead or alive I would say… The Beatles in the afternoon, Jimi Hendrix at dusk, and Nirvana late at night!

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Don’t listen to any advice! No one knows, and they definitely don’t know what’s best for you. You will feel lost, but I’ve come to believe that’s the price we have to pay. To build something from nothing, we have to keep going back to the “nothing”. Find peace with it. As I have tattooed on my arm: surrender to the void. Stay strong and persistent. Don’t give up!

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2024?

I will release a new single called ‘Call Me ’Til I Die’ and my debut album ‘Make Me Lighter’. Also, I will play live shows in the UK and Belgium. Looking forward to it!!

Listen to Ace Queen below