INTERVIEW: Sam Silver links with Hefna380 on “Choppa”

American producer and DJ Sam Silver has carved a unique niche for himself with his shape-shifting beats that seamlessly intertwine with the storytelling prowess of featured artists. Hailing from the vibrant city of New York, Silver’s musical ingenuity lies in his ability to infuse hypnotic melodies into his creations, providing a platform for artists to unleash their emotions. His sonic palette is a fusion of chill house music and intricate layers, creating an atmosphere that not only captivates but also resonates deeply with listeners.

At its core, Sam Silver’s artistic output offers a thrilling exploration of sonic boundaries, as evidenced by his collaborations with an array of acclaimed artists. From A$AP Twelvyy to Henry AZ, Rama Duke, Michael Aristotle and Lil Toe, Silver’s ability to adapt and experiment with various musical styles underscores his undeniable versatility. Silver’s formative years were steeped in the rhythms of vinyl, and he quickly transitioned from DJing to music production. Drawing inspiration from the nightclubs that shaped his youth, his sound is a fusion of eclectic influences that have culminated in a distinct and original sound.

In the latest chapter of his musical odyssey, Sam Silver links up with vocalist Hefna380 to unveil his new single titled “Choppa.” This sensational collaboration marks Silver’s debut release on Do Not Duplicate Recordings, and it’s a superb showcase of his prowess in merging hip hop and electronic dance music seamlessly. “Choppa” reveals Silver’s innate ability to craft beats that resonate with raw energy, setting the stage for Hefna380’s razor-sharp rapped vocals.

As “Choppa” unfolds, gripping energy envelops the listener, drawing them into a world of pulsating beats and electrifying synths. Hefna380’s vocals seamlessly weave through the intricate soundscape and with a electrifying drop, the track bursts into an infectious firestorm that ignites the senses. Sam Silver masterfully navigates varying tempos, creating a dynamic and exhilarating hip hop anthem that resonates long after the last note fades.

“Choppa” exemplifies Silver’s prowess as a producer and his ability to transcend musical boundaries, confirming his position as an exciting artist on the rise. As he continues to push the envelope and explore new sonic territories, listeners can anticipate an exciting evolution in Silver’s journey. With “Choppa,” Sam Silver resounds with unbridled promise, leaving a lasting mark on the dance music landscape and inviting us to join him on a sonic adventure like no other.

We caught up with Sam Silver to find out more about his inspirations, his new single “Choppa” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Sam Silver below.

Hey Sam, how’s things ?

Good. Over here in London making some music and checking on Big Ben.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

I have some memories of playing instruments when I was 8, but producing at age 14 at Practice World Wide Studios was when it really started for me.

Which artist first made a lasting impression on you?

Honestly, I gotta say it was Skrillex – even if that’s not the most original answer. I initially fell in love with listening to dubstep and he continues to reinvent himself time after time. The way he goes seamlessly from pop music to MSG rocking bangers is next level.

Which artists do you draw the most inspiration from today?

Habstrakt, Malaa, and Joyryde are definitely at the top of the list.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Living in NYC provides constant stimulation and raw material for ideas – but sometimes it’s boring stuff, like doing my regular day stuff and out of nowhere I could get hit with some emotion, or a memory, or see something that speaks to me. It could even be a random stranger on the street saying something that stuck with me the rest of the day or a quote from a TV show or movie. Inspiration is everywhere!

What do you love about the New York music scene?

The scene is filled with characters, culture, and fashion. I spend a lot of my time downtown in NYC but also back and forth between the LES and Brooklyn. While it may not be as well known for turning out a ton of dance music these days, there’s definitely action here and so many artists coming through town. Hip Hop of course is the heart of NY and I’m always on the hunt for people to bring into the studio to work with.

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

My new material is more uptempo – so that’s gonna be for a party setting, or for when you and your friends are chilling before going out. My older stuff is definitely more personal for a 1 on 1 listen or when you are home with only a couple people. I try to mix it up to be honest, so I’ve got some lighter tunes coming alongside hard bass jams.

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

My first original productions, I started making heavy trap into what I would say was very mediocre bass house. At age 15 I realised people wouldn’t take me seriously so I really tried to bring together my two major inspirations – hip hop and dance music – and then gradually come back to my roots with harder material as I’m getting towards 21 – so I can start performing all the heavier stuff I’ve been wanting to put out for a while.

How did you find making your new single “Choppa”?

It started out as a trap beat that I made in Jamaica but when I got back to NYC, I jumped into the studio and turned it into a bass house drop. As soon as I got a version that was pumping, it was obvious to me that I needed my boy Hefna on it – and so it goes.

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

The message behind this release is that you gotta just be you. Don’t deal with drama and don’t put up with it.

How was it collaborating with Hefna 380 on this release?

He’s a homie, so it was a casual and fun process. He brings so much raw energy and lyrics just pour out of him.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

At the moment I’ve been listening to a bunch of unreleased tunes from my boy Paris Bryant. I think he’s gonna be next to blow up and I’ve got one or two with him in the locker.

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

I want to give people the release they are looking for. Life is short – you gotta have fun and not take it so seriously. But at the same time, I’m a big believer in always working to better yourself and the people around you – but that doesn’t mean [life] has to be a downer.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

I did a small show in the East Village here in NYC at a small spot called Virgo. My friends throw these intimate raw nights, and a lot of pop-ups, so the energy is always on point and people come out for a good time.

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

I’d put on Habstrakt, Knock 2 and Skrillex. Maybe jump in for a little b2b myself 🙂

I was at an insane estate yesterday just outside of London – maybe I can ask them if we can invite some people over.

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

My major piece of advice would be to keep moving. Don’t dwell on anything. Good news, bad news – it’s gonna come constantly. The key is to stay in the moment, and enjoy the ride. And most importantly, don’t compare yourself to other artists who are on a different journey then you are. Everyone has a different trajectory, so focus on yours and make it work for you.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?

Well I’m just about to turn 21… so I’m gearing up to play some bigger shows for the first time. I got some crazy new bass house hitters and have something cooking with Bijou which I hope becomes a release. In the past few years I’ve been self releasing my own music, but I’m really enjoying the process of releasing on DJ labels and seeing Bijou drop this release at a festival was an all time high – plus hearing it on his Sirius XM radio show. Right now I’m in the studio 4-5 days a week, working with a lot of different MC’s and topliners, and I’m finishing up a track right now with a British rapper that I think will be a smash. I’m gonna get 6 of these wrapped up and scheduled back to back and then it’s on.

Listen to Choppa below