Where are you based?
Toronto, ON. Canada.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I am the founder of Jelot Consultation and currently Assistant Production Coordinator Trainee // Canada’s Ultimate Challenge, Insight Productions Ltd. I most recently served as the Assistant Production Coordinator for The Legacy Awards (produced by Insight Productions Ltd.), where I had the opportunity to participate in The Black Academy’s Skills Development Program. I had a fantastic time with the production, and hope to do more similar shows in the future!
What are you listening to?
My playlist has consistently been a random mix of music, and a testament to my eclectic taste. I find immense joy in exploring a wide array of genres and discovering artists who push the boundaries of their craft.
Lately, my musical journey has led me to immerse myself even deeper into the realms of R&B, neo-soul, gospel, reggae, funk, and meditation sounds. Here’s a list of some specific artists and albums that I’ve been playing on heavy rotation:
- Mary J Blige
- Al Green
- Snoh Aalegra
- Aretha Franklin
- Jhené Aiko (Alive & Well / Jhene Aiko Trigger Mantra Loop For Babies)
- Tibetan Healing Bowls
- Tibetan Monk Chanting
- Gospel music: Maurette
- Brown Clarke, Yolanda
- Adams, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, The Clarke Sisters, Juanita Bynum
- Exodus by Bob Marley (Album)
- Chronology by Chronixx (Album)
- Renaissance by Beyoncé (Album)
How do you discover new music?
I’m an avid follower of Instagram accounts that curate and share vintage music; I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems from the past. When something catches my ear, I make it a point to save the Instagram story or post and review later. I am usually pretty good at revisiting my collection and downloading the tracks onto my phone.
I also typically find new songs when listening to random playlists on Youtube. I always take the time to write down a song that catches my attention (I can’t help it!)
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
My primary platforms for music consumption are Apple Music and YouTube. I’m also an avid collector of vinyl records, although I’m currently missing a proper sound system! I’m eagerly anticipating the day I find the perfect system as I’m certain it will be heavily incorporated into my daily music routine.
“While growing up, my dad used to “assign” my brother and I various artists to study. He encouraged us to independently delve into their stories, histories, and the music they had created.”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
Music is an integral part of my daily routine from start to finish. During my mornings and evenings, I’ve incorporated meditative music and spiritual chanting to my routine. I’ve discovered that these soothing sounds have a profoundly positive impact on my overall mood and mental health. They provide moments of tranquillity and reflection, helping me find inner peace amidst the daily hustle. I like listening to Tibetan healing bowls, Tibetan Monk chanting, and Jhené Aiko (Alive & Well / Jhene Aiko Trigger Mantra Loop For Babies).
While commuting to work, I like to start my day with uplifting music that energises me. My musical preferences in the mornings span from soca, 90s hip hop and R&B, gospel, and of course the Renaissance album by Beyoncé.
At work I pivot to music that helps me concentrate and stay focused; typical neo soul and R&B. Artists like Marvin Gaye, D’Angelo, Snoh Alegra, Teddy Pendergrass, Jill Scott, Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, and Aretha Franklin provide the perfect soundtrack to enhance my creativity and productivity.
While heading home, I’ve been recently enjoying the Barbie Album, Vybz Kartel, Nicki Minaj, Diana Ross and Selena Quintanilla.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
Honestly, I don’t go seeking new or pre-released music. I just listen to whatever feels good to my ears.
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
No problems that I can think of.
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
I possess a strong memory when it comes to artists and their music. When I discover a new song, I tend to immerse myself in it, playing it repeatedly while it’s still fresh in my mind. This approach ensures that by the time the song is no longer considered “new” to me, I’ve become intimately familiar with its details.
While growing up, my dad used to “assign” my brother and I various artists to study. He encouraged us to independently delve into their stories, histories, and the music they had created. This skillset has remained with me to this day, allowing me to amass a vast and diverse repertoire of musical knowledge. It’s a valuable ability that continues to enrich my appreciation of music and deepen my connection to the artists who’ve shaped the soundtrack of my life.
Do you tip other people off to new music? How?
Yes of course! I typically have access to the aux cord during social gatherings, and will often introduce new music there. I also love to share songs on Apple Music via text message.
Anything you want to “promote”?
I want to take this moment to promote:
The Legacy Awards
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legacyawardsca/
Insight Productions
- Website: https://insighttv.com/
The Black Academy & their Skills Development Program
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackisnowcanada
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/blackisnowca
- Website: https://blackacademy.ca/
- Website (The Skills Development Program): https://blackacademy.ca/skills-development-program/
