M: Bro, what's that cover art for The Enlightenment (pictured above). Did you paint that?
T: I didn't actually. I found it online. I think it's a German artist but it's barely known but I liked the simplicity of it.
The Enlightenment, by Terrell Drayton
The Enlightenment by Terrell Drayton, released 20 November 2023 1. Always Rejected 2. White Powder 3. Xamayca Enlightenment includes a range of ideas centred on the value of human happiness, the pursuit of knowledge obtained by means of reason and the evidence of the senses, and ideals such as natural law, liberty, progress, creative endeavours and manifestation of the self individual through art.
M: How did you get your start in music production?
T: I started producing music when I was roughly 17/18. I wanted, at that time, to know if I could teach myself and take my skills to different levels. It was always about personal satisfaction and gaining confidence whether with software (or) hardware - combining both and bring the best outcome possible.
M: Where are you from?
T: My Dad is from Detroit. He currently lives in Amsterdam but I live in London, UK.
M: Do you have formal music training or education?
T: I have a Sound & Technology degree although most of my learning is from listening and searching how other musicians produce music in all fairness. Getting ideas and try those is my way to go really.
M: When did you join the Expressionist movement?
T: I joined this way of life and this spirituality since I was a kid. I knew what I wanted to become very early and I still don't want to do anything else apart from this. It's embedded in my DNA. The force is too strong!
M: What does Expressionism mean to you?
T: To me, Expressionism is a way of a human being deliver it's art form, whether it's a painting, a record, a sculpture or even a physical form (of) our state of Mind...our consciousness. It's how we create art. Being happy or sad will say how you express your art.
M: How does Detroit Techno speak to the global Expressionist movement?
T: In my opinion, Detroit is the epicentre of all kinds of art forms - especially the sonic one. The Midwest set a standard of what great music is and all the innovations can take different paths leading to something new and unique.
M: Indeed.. I'm from Chicago and currently live there. When are we get to hear some more music?
T: This June and July (2026), I will release an EP of perhaps 3/4 tracks and some remixes from known artists, It's marinated and ready to be cooked!
Detroinium, by Terrell Drayton
Detroinium by Terrell Drayton, released 09 September 2024
M: How has the London vibe contributed to your sound?
T: London helped me to gather all the diversity in sound and appropriate that to my own landscape.
M: What is the long term vision for your art (music)?
T: My long term vision is to continue to work on my sound and share my best works with everyone online and record shops, of course; but it's a battle due to the fact that not everyday is a good (day) behind the keys.
M: Who are your primary influences sonically and artistically?
T: Oh that's a tricky question. I'd say Larry Heard, Jeff Mills (of course), Marcellus Pittman, the early Omar S, Kerri Chandler, Moodyman, Frankie Knuckles, Derrick May. I mean there's so many the list would be endless.
M: I hear you. How often do you get to Detroit?
T: Never been there. LOOOL (crying).
M: Did you grow up in London?
T: Yes indeed. North London and East London.
M: Has Jungle/ Drum 'N' Bass influenced you at all?
T: To be honest, not really. I don't feel the frequency. It doesn't align with my path. Frankly my household has been mainly Midwest sound - Soul, Funk. Jazz, House and Techno.
M: No doubt. Anything else you would like to share?
T: Yes. I truly believe that music is our spiritual guide through life and us, as Artists can change the world by sharing it with others.
