A Quick Chat with Billy Risk

Can you tell us about the single 'Dangerous' and how it represents your fusion of pop, funk, trapsoul, and R&B?

'Dangerous' is a track that's deeply rooted in the sounds of 80s pop and R&B, which have always been a significant influence on my music. When creating this song, I drew heavily from my personal experiences, especially from a tumultuous period in my love life. The song captures a moment of intense emotion and conflict with a lover, reflecting the struggles and highs of that relationship. Musically, it's a vibrant blend of classic pop, funk, and R&B, with my own modern twist. I've also incorporated elements of trapsoul, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to those timeless genres. This fusion is a testament to my desire to honor the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music.

Take us through the writing of 'Dangerous.' Tell us about the themes you've been exploring.

The writing process for 'Dangerous' was deeply personal and introspective. At the time, I had a crush on a girl who was stuck in a toxic relationship. We spent a lot of time talking about her feelings and her situation. I could sense that the relationship she was in was doomed, and I suspected she felt the same way. This song emerged from that complicated and forbidden love story. I wanted to capture the intensity of those emotions—love, frustration, hope, and despair—all at once. The themes revolve around forbidden love, the pain of unspoken feelings, and the complexity of human relationships. It’s a raw and honest reflection of that period in my life.

 If 'Dangerous' could be the soundtrack to any film or TV series, which one would it be and why?

 If 'Dangerous' were to serve as the soundtrack for a film, I'd choose 'Love Lies Bleeding.' The film’s old-school aesthetic aligns perfectly with the vibe that 'Dangerous' emanates. It’s all about the complex and sometimes dark facets of love, which resonate deeply with the song’s themes. For a TV series, 'YOU' would be an excellent match. The show's intricate and often twisted love stories mirror the kind of emotional turbulence and excitement captured in 'Dangerous.' The narrative’s intensity and psychological depth can be easily interpreted through the song, offering a complementary auditory experience to the visual storytelling.

 If you could bring back any musician from the dead to collaborate with, who would it be and why?

 Without a doubt, I would bring back Michael Jackson. I know it’s a common answer, but collaborating with the King of Pop would be a dream come true. Michael Jackson has been a monumental influence on me since I was a child. His music has shaped my artistic vision and continues to inspire me as I evolve as an artist. His unparalleled talent, innovative sound, and timeless appeal are qualities I deeply admire and strive to embody in my own music. Creating a song with him would not only be an incredible honor but also a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to connect my musical roots with his legendary legacy.

 What was the last gig you went to, and how did it influence your music?

The last gig I attended was a local show that featured my producer MattyMadeIt and his band, alongside KOOLZ and her band, among other artists. Watching KOOLZ perform was a revelation for me. Her energy and style resonated with me profoundly, inspiring me to rethink my musical direction. She became a pivotal influence in shaping my sound. Additionally, seeing MattyMadeIt perform made me realize the importance of having a producer who truly understands and complements my vision. This experience prompted me to take a step back from performing to focus on refining my sound and aligning it with the direction I wanted to pursue. It was a crucial moment of introspection and growth in my musical journey.

 What's on the horizon for you? What else do you have planned for the rest of 2024?

Looking ahead, my primary goal for the rest of 2024 is to deepen my understanding of the music industry and build a strong, supportive team. This will enable me to work more efficiently and get my music out to a broader audience. Although I don’t have any live shows planned at the moment, I’m open to the idea of performing, especially at festivals where I can showcase my new sound to a larger crowd. I’m eager to seize any opportunities that come my way and am particularly excited about the possibility of participating in a festival. It would be the perfect platform to share my evolved sound and connect with fans in a dynamic, live setting.