California Reggae Music Interview with Upryzin

This week CALI Strong interviews California native reggae artist John “Upryzin” Curry as he emerges on the Cali Reggae scene.

“Reggae” has become an all encompassing term associated with artists like Bob Marley or Rebelution. The formation of several sub-genres within reggae into ska, roots, rock-steady, dub, dance hall and fusion is the reason that reggae’s popularity has spread so far from its Jamaican home.

Upryzin turns to traditional reggae to instill a positive message and uplifting vibe to the music he creates. We catch up with him as he returns to California to work on his “OUT OF ONE” LP & TOUR that will document his reality, lifestyle & music.

Questions & Answer Session With John "Upryzin" Curry:

What does your name mean and where did it derive?

Upryzin is a direct reflection of my life. As well all life,.. a constant push forward up towards the light of the world. During my life in the Ozarks, I worked with RyzeUp Records. Through 3 years of recording, building, and jamming with my Ozark Family, I self-adjusted & moved forward as Upryzin.

Who are your musical inspirations?

Speaking about musical inspirations, I have had many elders and teachers through the years. Steel Pulse was the first music group to capture my attention as I noticed my thirst for roots and culture. Songs like “Wild Goose Chase” and “Life Without Music” were key in developing my love for conscious music.

When did you first start singing?

I was raised in Church, and singing in the choir wasn’t optional… it was mandatory. As I remember, music ranging from Take6 and LA Mass Choir to Steel Pulse and The Wailers were a regular sing-a-long.

Do you play any instruments?

While I can play my original songs with the guitar, piano, and congas, I would not call myself a guitarist, pianist, nor drummer. I do sometimes use instruments to develop song structure.

What did your family do to encourage you?

My family has always supported a greater good in everything I do. Even today my mother’s words echo when she would tell me: “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” My greatest role model is also my only sibling. I was only a teenager when my brother’s lyrics and diverse instrument abilities encouraged my passion for creating reggae music.

CALI Strong Rasta and Reggae gear is on sale now!

Check out our reggae and rasta snapbacks, skateboards, longboards, backpacks, hoodies and shoes!

Shop OnLine

Who else in your family sings?

If I’m not mistaken, everyone in my family sings—but only my brother and I has actually pursued it, to sing with a band on stage. According to my mother, Tony Braxton is a 3rd cousin—but I’ve never actually had the chance to meet her.

What kind of music do you listen to today?

I tend to listen to a wide range of music today. To me, vibrations are the primary cause and effect of all music. The adjusting of mood with music is not an uncommon practice. There’s a time for Enya as there a time for NAZ. However listening to Super Heavy is a well-rounded experience. And whether day or night, Midnite is a must-listen.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player?

I can’t say much about my MP3 player but, as far as embarrassing–I have tripped onstage in Missouri. And I can truly say,.. that won’t happen again.

Upryzin On SoundCloud

Where in the U.S. would you like to perform most?

I’ve had the privilege of performing all over the country. At the moment, I am preparing an LP release and tour to follow—and the goal, more than specific geography, is to reach out to as many people as possible. So where would I like to perform? Where the crowd’s at!

Who would you most like to open for?

It would be blessed to open for Stephen Marley. Not just because I’m a fan of the music. I’ve met Stephen a few times so I know it would be a good time. And it would be nice to link with de I.

If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be?

Reggae will always be my roots, my base, although I have also recorded on Hip-hop, R&B, Folk, Rock, Jazz, & Rap rhythms. I’m always interested to blend genres and push the limits of what can be created through sound, texture and rhythm.

If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?

..hmm. Good one. Well, I feel I can do anything. And if Lord forbids, I stopped making my music; I think I would produce music. I believe I have a good ear for sound. One way or another, creating music, working with music or communicating through music is what I do.

Why did you write’ We Belong?

We Belong is written in two parts.

Part One was directed to a very important lady in my life. This woman is important in many ways. Through our journey called, “Relationship” and seeing differences called “Obstacles” I learned a better way and better place we belong.

Part Two is society. I’ve circled this country a few times. From Maine to Spain it’s all the same. People show better when people see better—cause people will know better. We Belong is just my better way of saying this.

Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?

I could just as easily say I create all my songs, but I feel my words and sounds comes from a far greater source. I can only write about topics I feel. My music’s theme is People. I&I …you, I, and this universal connection within.

CALI Strong Rasta and Reggae gear is on sale now!

Check out our reggae and rasta snapbacks, skateboards, longboards, backpacks, hoodies and shoes!

Shop OnLine

What else do you do besides play music?

Aside from music, my interest and topic in conversations is history, story, and source. I regularly research and study ancient civilizations. I’d go as far as to say; my ancestral influence inspires me to put words and sound to songs.

What do you think about when you’re performing?

I don’t do too much thinking up on stage. Most of the time I’m too high to think. And I’m not talking about herbs. I get way high naturally from the mood of the crowd, the environment and the experience—all vibrations.

Could you briefly describe the music-making process?

The process always depends on the direction of the music. Some people make music for pure joy and are content without the musical income, while some people make music for financial gain alone. Something more like a task or a chore than creative happiness. For me, music has always been a passion, but lately in my career, my direction has also taken a practical turn. It’s still about the music, the vibrations, the mood—but I’m also paying attention to music registration, online distribution and sales, team development, and setting concrete goals to go along with each project.

What genre of music can’t you stand to listen?

I don’t discriminate—as long as it is creative and authentic. The only time I will not listen to music—regardless of genre– is when the sounds change my mood to a feeling I consider not good.

What else can we expect from you in the future?

Currently, I am wrapping up an LP and envisioning a tour. More songs, and sound to come. Lord willing, we kick off the tour come mid-late July.

What advice do you have for people who want pursue music?

If anyone is pursuing sound creativity of any genre, but needs motivation or inspiration, my best advice would be connected back to nature. Music is a sacred tool. At the highest levels, it can be mind breaking, mind building. And across the board, it is nourishment for the soul—life-giving food.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?

I have a few online social media sites where music can be viewed. I have a SoundCloud channel as well as some singles on iTunes—just 99¢ for all the impulse buyers out there. I have also recently become aware of my tunes playing on Spotify & iHeartRadio stations. I’m easy to find online, just search for Upryzin!

Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge?

As always, a massive salute to all my brothers and sisters in a forward step towards one universal love… Yesterday, today, and forevermore. BigUp my family, friends, and fans that have been on this journey with me through the years. Every day, I feel my family worldwide observing and feeling upful. All my elders, mentors and teachers. All creative connections and linked bridges developed to get through. All sound systems, studios and producers, and agents with insight who have supported me along the way. Naturally I feel motivated from far up above–I acknowledge from where I stand. Bless you.