Canadian artist Gen released her song “Company” almost a month ago on June 16, 2022 and we’re still obsessed. The singer’s voice just washes over you as the percussion taps in the background.
It starts with a crush. “Do you think it shows the way that I blush when I look at you?” Gen sings about the feelings and physiological responses of her body when she’s near the person she is attracted to. She craves their company, their closeness. That initial eye contact and maybe, just maybe, things are on the same wavelength. Do they feel it, too? Gen’s favorite line from the song is “Am I just naive, yeah am I blind? Could this be love or are we wasting time?”
There’s just something about the way this song hits–it’s a beautiful production of emotion and story. “Company” is minimalistic with its instrumentals. With a bit of percussion and a few light chords, the majority of the song relies on Gen’s powerful and emotive vocals and the story told from her point of view.
Gen dropped her debut single “Damage” spring 2021 and has been on the music scene since. She tells us that “Company” was two years in the making. The song was written and recorded in Toronto and kicks off Gen’s summer which holds promises of new music releasing soon. For more information on this artist to watch for, follow her socials linked below.
Q&A with Gen
Q: We really love how everything meshed perfectly in “Company”! What was your creative process in making the song?
GEN: “Company” first came about when I was living in Toronto back in 2020. After hearing the beat, produced by @Scandibeats, I instantly felt a flirty, summer vibe to the song. Once I realized the direction I wanted to take it, writing came quickly. The recording process took place at two different downtown studios with some really talented engineers.
This is my first single with visuals released as well, which has been really exciting for me. The 15 second loop on youtube shows some close up headshots of me, matching the vulnerability of the lyrics. Inspired by the effortlessly cool aesthetic of the 2000’s, the footage was filmed on a cam-corder, followed by processing it through analog glitch gear.
Q: Did any real-life events occur that inspired “Company”?
GEN: Yeah, there’s been a few summer crushes. I think everyone can relate to catching a vibe with someone or crushing on them. Sometimes you can’t help but wonder if they’re feeling the same type of way. You might shoot your shot.. Or just play “Company” in the car with them and see if they take the hint!
Q: Was there a pivotal moment in your life when you decided to follow your path as a musician?
GEN: There’s been several defining moments in my life when I decided to follow my path as a musician. One of the most affirming and pivotal moments was when I graduated university in my hometown of Ottawa Ontario. I knew with so much certainty that I did not want to pursue a 9-5 career and I was ready to put all of my time, energy and hustle into developing my music. I saved up that whole summer working in restaurants, and moved to Toronto as soon as I could to keep pushing my music career.
Q: What’s the music scene like in Vancouver?
GEN: I’ve had the privilege of linking with some really talented musicians, singers, Dj’s and creatives out here. There is definitely a scene that’s hard working, full of talent and inspiring. I’ve only been in Vancouver for less than a year, so I can’t speak too much on it, its roots or how much it’s grown over the years, but I feel really blessed and grateful to have the opportunity to work on my music in this incredible city.
Q: What is your go-to karaoke song?
GEN: Wow, last time I did karaoke was at a karaoke bar in Osaka with a bunch of friends! I think I pulled out the classic, “Let Me Love You” by Mario. Karaoke is always so much fun!
Q: What projects do your fans have to look forward to?
GEN: This past year has been about letting my fans into my world and sharing my new music. This summer though, I want to give the OG fans something special, by re-releasing a couple tracks from my “Hoodie” EP released back in 2018 exclusively on Soundcloud. It’s a different side of Gen that I’m really excited to bring back and share with my new audience. More details soon ;).
Reviewed & Interviewed by Dana L. Sullivan
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