Words-Art Jefferson
Images courtesy of Project Alfie
London singer Project Alfie is quite distinctive. At only 25, he sings with the power of some of the classic soul greats with an appearance of a ’60s cinema chic. In other words, Alfie is the new “rebirth of cool”. His vocals are proven undeniable on his song “Begging” which is going to be featured on the Universal Compilation R&B Collection 2012 and his recent retake on Jay-Z’s “Dead Presidents” track earned him stripes amongst some of the biggest deejays in the UK such as BBC 1xtra’s CJ Beatz. 2012 is clearly going to be a very big year for this soul child and one given listen to his voice and the assurance will be unquestionable.
AJ-Tell me about your roots in terms of music because your music has the perfect element of soul. What music were you listening to as a youth?
PA-Well I grew up listening to a lot Stevie Wonder, (such as) “Innervisions” and “Talking Book”, Donny Hathaway, MJ! Also neo soul, Maxwell D’Angelo, Musiq Soulchild etc… (with) jazz…Miles Davis, Chet Baker and also Jay-Z ,Nas, Mos Def, Kanye West, Common.
AJ– It seems that you’re also taking the visual presentation back to the times of when singers actually had genuine class and style. Is that a safe assessment?
PA-I guess I’m following the influences of my heroes not just from music but also from classic cinema. I love the style and class of 60’s cinema and I wanted that to come across in my music.
AJ-Talk about the Project Alfie vs. Jay-Z “Dead Presidents” track. That song has been getting quite a bit of love from various DJs such as CJ Beatz and more. What inspired you to do a complete retake on that track?
PA-I’ve always loved the track growing up and it is undoubtly a classic! I felt that I could put my slant on it without taking away from the the original version and hopefully create something new.
AJ-Can you tell me about the upcoming mixtape that you’re getting ready to release soon?
PA-Yeah. We release the mixtape on the 27th of this month. It’s going to be following along the lines of “Dead Presidents” with retakes on tracks in which I’ve always loved. The elements of soul, Hip-Hop and a bit of cinema will run through out. It’s about to welcome people to the Alfie sound.
AJ-Finally, what can we expect in 2012 from Project Alfie? I’m hoping an album is in the works because I have a feeling that you’re going to also do extremely well in places such as the American market.
PA-Well, I can say the album is in the works at the moment with more up coming gigs in the new year. Whether it’s the UK or America I just want people to feel the music.