JuWehl
What an amazing discovery. Sometimes I get nervous when I open a new music submission because I really want to hear something great. I don’t want to get disappointed. But JuWehl is just incredible. I honestly wasn’t expecting to hear something that good. His vocals are fire and the productions are mind-blowing. He already has everything to be one of the greatest out there and I’m pretty sure the whole world will hear about him very soon. His latest single “Falling For You” is a massive smash.
The Copenhagen artist will be releasing his debut EP on June 23rd.
But for now, go stream “Falling For You” now !
Photo credit: @laerkeful
Introduce yourself - what's your story?
Hey there! My name is Martin, but you can call me JuWehl. I’ve been an artist most of my life, singing and writing songs since I was a teenager. It all started when I lived in a refugee home after my foster family decided my sister and I couldn't stay with them anymore. Although my EP doesn't delve into that topic, the feeling of homesickness has always inspired my music. Recently I've started writing about my childhood and upbringing, which has been very therapeutic.
What did you grow up listening to?
Growing up, I listened to a lot of my older foster brother’s rap records on my diskman. I spent hours alone practicing and learning the lyrics. As I became a teenager, I developed a love for jazz, soul, and funk.
When did you know you could sing?
I've been writing rap since I was 13 and I first discovered my singing voice when I was around 13, but it wasn't until my teenage years that I started expressing myself through singing sad jazz songs. I guess I found my voice back then.
When did you know you had to be an artist and release your original music?
Back when I met my musical mentor (and main producer) Laust Juel from Nobody Beats The Beats. You might say he had a good influence on me.
"Falling For You" is your latest single - what's the inspiration behind this song?
My latest single, "Falling for You," is a song about the complexities of falling in love with someone you know is not good for you. It's a story of being willing to do anything for the one you love, even if it means hurting yourself in the process.
Could you describe the songwriting/production process for this single? Who helped you create it?
The songwriting process for "Falling for You" was a collaborative effort between myself, Vakle (the producer), and Laura Lindell. Despite this being our first time working together, our synergy was so seamless that the song came together quickly and organically.
What made you want to collaborate with Vakle on this record?
I had to! (laughs). We were randomly put together in a writing group on the second day of the songwriting camp. Rest is history.
What's your favorite lyric on "Falling For You"?
I really like the bittersweet lyrics in 2. verses.
“You kept me tethered
But I'm not bitter no
yet it grows
I'm greeting it”
What can you tell us about your upcoming EP?
My upcoming EP was a chance for me to explore my musicality and progress as a songwriter and vocalist, alongside other artists who share the same vibe and taste as myself.
As an artist, what is the hardest part? And what is the best part?
The hardest part of being an artist is cutting through all the noise on social media and networking to get noticed. The best part is being creative in the studio with my buddies.
What are your thoughts on today's music industry? If you could change one thing, what would it be?
I think the music industry today focuses too much on popularity and trends, and not enough on creative and talented artists.
Could you list a few records that influenced your music today?
So many but I’d have to say:
- D’Angelo's "Voodoo,"
- Chet Baker “Chet Baker Sings”
- Nobody Beats The Beats "Drops From Above"
- Donny Hathaway "Live (1972)”
- Gnarls Barkley "St. Elsewhere"
- Portishead "Dummy"
How's the music scene in Copenhagen? Any artist(s) you'd like to recommend?
As for the music scene in Copenhagen, I highly recommend checking out Mekdes, a rising soul star who took me under her wing and invited me to play with her at all the big stages in Denmark, including Roskilde Festival. I also recommend my buddy Jeona's EP, "Therapy." We wrote "sci-fi" together, which will be on my upcoming EP. Jonas is a super-talented songwriter and producer who I love working with.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
I believe the world would be better if we focus more on practicing true empathy towards one another. Easier said than done though.
What are the biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
Do your own thing and fight for what you want. Also, have fun while doing it.
Connect with JuWehl: