After following up his much-loved 2023 self-titled LP with a flurry of impactful offerings throughout the last few months, New Jersey-based artist Tony Newbury is back on the grind once again with his latest studio album 'NO MORE CIGARETTES'.
Honing more of that smooth and passionate aesthetic he has crafted from himself, this new seven-track collection makes for an incredibly bold and driven listen. With its broad and immersive textures, breezy atmosphere, and his own stellar vocals at the helm, 'NO MORE CIGARETTES' continues to cement him as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I honestly fell in love with writing before anything else. But I did start making beats when I was 17.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up listening to groups like Queen and the Beatles. But the first rappers I really fell in love with were Eminem and Kanye West. I really loved what they were creating during their come up.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Elephunk by the Black Eyed Peas.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I wish I had written Crooked Smile by J.Cole. That song meant so much to me throughout high school.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I usually try to make a beat that can create the setting for my words. Like, I make music that will paint the background on a canvas. Then allow my words to be the pictures on the foreground.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’m really big into Charles Hamilton right now. I had a music friend put me onto him in 2021 and he honestly has become one of my favourite artists of all time. He’s just so raw. Listen to Pink Lavalamp.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I'd really want to open up for Russ. I’ve always admired his independent hustle. I'm a big Logic guy too.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to connect with others.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Being misunderstood by those who don’t get me.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
To just keep going.
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Tony Newbury's new album 'NO MORE CIGARETTES' is out now. Check it out in the player below.