Early this year Flavourmag and New Skool Rules (NSR) teamed up to find a UK talent to perform in a showcase at NSR 3 day Rotterdam based hip hip conference. After amassing over 2000 public votes singer/songwriter Hayley Cassidy was deemed the winner. Here we have a quick chat with the 24-year-old Londoner.
Congratulations on winning the competition to attend and perform at New Skool Rules. How did you feel after you won?
Blessed – I was up against a lot of good artist so it was a blessing to win.
What made you decide to enter?
This opportunity is amazing and I thought I would give it a shot!
Did you think you’d win?
I didn’t, I was up against a lot of great artist, so it could have been any of us that won.
What are you looking forward to most about the trip?
Performing first, networking second. I absolutely miss the stage and buzz from it, so I’m really looking forward to it.
Why should people at the New Skool Rules conference come and see your set at the Flavourmag Showcase?
I want them to come and enjoy the vibe that I plan to create! It’s gonna be fun!
Tell us about Stripped?
Stripped is a song that talks about me relieving myself of any negative energy, people or connotations that people choose to attach to us, and just starting a fresh with a strong mindset. It’s about perseverance regardless of obstacles.
What three words would you use to describe yourself and why?
Fun, Odd, Sarcastic! It’s hard to sum yourself up in 3 words, but these 3 words describe different elements to me.
What makes you stand out from any other artist?
The fact that I have not compromised my sound, style or look – everything I do is from the heart and hopefully I execute that well enough for people to see that and for me to ‘stand out’ even though I feel every artist is unique in their own way.
How would you describe your sound?
Jazzy, Rnb, Soul infused music.
If you could work with any artist or producer in the world right now who would it be and why?
Neptunes – I’ve wanted to work with them ever since I heard their Kelis joints. To this day I still love them deeply!
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Jo Jo’s mixtape – Agape and Miguel. I tend to switch it up a lot.
Anyone you think we should look out for this year?
Shakka is definitely one to watch this year. I’m so proud that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.
What are your plans for the year ahead?
I plan to continue on my voyage to get my name and music heard – continue to touch people with my music and aim to pursue this on a wider scale. What artist wouldn’t want to do music full time!
To keep informed on all things Hayley Cassidy visit her website: www.hayleycassidy.com or follow her on Twitter: Hayley_Cassidy
If you would like to attend the conference its not too late to buy tickets. For more information visit www.newskoolrules.com
Click here to read about New Skool Rules founder Henca Mudaro and click here to read about Malik MD7 And Black The Ripper’s National Tour. Book your tickets to New Skool Rules now.
