Photo Credits: Artemas on Instagram (artemas__)
“I just fell in love with the world I was creating.”
Artemas, a 27-year-old Oxford-born music artist, lit the stage at The Fillmore Charlotte in early October. Intense tracks, fervent lyrics, and a passionate audience filled the dimly lit venue. As an alternative R&B singer, he performs as what can only be described as fervidly. Every movement he makes is intentional; every line is uttered with soul-crushing sincerity. It is hard not to get lost in the realm he weaves with such impassioned meaning.
Photo Credits: Quockerwodger Media
Throughout his childhood, world-famous singer and songwriter Artemas grew up on classics like Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers, fueling his love for music and transforming his style into what he likes to call “lovercore” — combining dark and atmospheric rhythm and blues synths with his honest, obsessive lyrics. He says he feels most comfortable in this genre, and this is where most of his music lives. “I’m always trying to write amazing melodies while talking about the most intense emotions. The darker, more sensual side of my music is kind of my comfort zone,” Artemas expressed in an interview with Numéro Netherlands. He’s never really had a problem balancing the two, but what he has struggled with is the process.
“I love when an accident becomes something beautiful.” Embracing the mistakes and trusting the process has always been something that Artemas has strived to incorporate into his workflow. He intends to “just let it happen” rather than plan for everything to be perfect, and he applies this concept throughout his music. Confidence and surety is huge. “I have no idea what’s going to come out. Sometimes you just mumble shit and you’re like, holy fuck, that’s it.” Early on in his career, the biggest challenge faced was finding that self-assurance, trying not to be calculated with every part of his song-making; now, though it’s something that comes naturally to him. Whether it be his background synth, the beat, or the lyrics, not overthinking has been the key to his success, giving him the opportunity to release music so quickly.
Photo Credits: The Receipt
Another crucial aspect has been heavy emotions, with suffering at the forefront, surprisingly enough. More important than those feelings, though, is having the time to process them. Artemas doesn’t write right when these moments happen. There are no tears being shed while singing, but he leans on these experiences to inspire him to create his next track. “I can tap into that feeling, but I’m not one to get broken up with, pick up an acoustic guitar, get drunk, and bam, write a good anthem. I’m writing shit the whole time,” he harps in his interview with Basic Magazine. This is what creates those heart-wrenching lyrics while simultaneously having the distance to keep it playful.
As for the impact he wants his songs to have on his audience, he wants more than just casual listeners; he wants people who feel. Goosebumps is what he’s chasing; according to Artemas, the best music evokes a physical reaction. Lyrically, he also wants his words to hit a place deep in people’s hearts. His goal is to “give it that crack that makes people feel something,” not just mashing together random verses. He wants every line to stir an emotion within while keeping it honest to his own experiences. “I think there’s a magic in saying things others might be scared to say.”
A little arrogant and charming, Artemas continually blows his audience away with his music. His latest album, “getting up to no good,” featuring his fanatical yearning and intense tracks, perfect for a subtle kind of confidence booster. So next time you’re in the mood for some dark, obsessive mystique, “lovercore” style, look no further than Artemas. Get lost in the world he creates; it’s made just for you.
Photo Credits: Pinterest