Hi, My name’s Daniel Grey-Leonge, professionally known as Drey Beatz. I’m a singer-songwriter and record producer from Nigeria.
1 - Was there a certain moment when you decided to follow your path?
I really can’t think of any defining moment but as far as I can remember, music had always been a major path for me.
2 - Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
I try to find inspiration from any and everything. I usually start my process by either humming melodies or searching for a melody that I can build from. After that, I try creating a groove or drum pattern to fit the melody and everything takes off from there.
3 - How do you know when a piece of work is accomplished? What’s your number 1 habit?
There’s a sense of satisfaction that I have when a project is accomplished and when it’s not there, I know something is still missing. My number habit is that I constantly seek new ways to develop my mind and skill.
4 - What drives and inspires you?
God and family. I think God gives the greatest inspiration and family gives the best drive.
5 - What are you thankful for?
I’m thankful for so much in my life. I’m grateful for my journey, the music I create, the people I’ve been blessed with, and every opportunity. I've learned to take nothing for granted.
6 - Do you interact with the digital world/technology in your work?
Yes I do. A lot of time when I feel uninspired with melodies or just feel like exploring new ideas I use splice and sometimes I Shazam a song I hear on the radio or at the bar that I feel connected to the rhythm or Melody. It really helps me stay inspired.
7 - How does your daily routine look like?
My daily routine is really simple. Early mornings and lates nights. My days are usually centered around creating music, self-development, and family. Family time is a priority for me.
8 - What advice would you give to your younger self following your steps?
My advice would be, “Enjoy the process, Life’s a journey and not a race”. Direction over speed.
9 - Why do you love what you do? Where can people find you? What’s the plan for 2020?
I love what I do because it's the one thing I’m really good at, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do and nothing makes me happier. You can find me on Instagram @dreybeatz and on twitter @iamdreybeatz. The plan for 2020 is to put out a lot more great music.
10-How do you get in contact with the ROU / What does this movement mean to you?
I got in contact with ROU through my Nigerian brother Garey Godson in 2018. He told me about the ROU and since then I’ve felt an organic connection to the movement. It means a lot to me because it's connected me with the amazingly talented HKMK. Watching the movement grow over the years has really been inspiring.
What should people be ready for in 2020 ?
I've got two upcoming projects this year.
My first project as recording artist titled 'Riddim & Luv' drops July 3rd. Its 6-tracks EP written, produced, performed and mainly engineered by me and I got to collaborate with some really incredible artists like Ice Prince, Greyc, Richie Loop, Femi Leye, and more on this project.
Social links:
https://www.instagram.com/dreybeatz
https://twitter.com/Iamdreybeatz
https://web.facebook.com/dreybeatzonline