Austin-based Artist BLK ODYSSY on Cinematic Songwriting and NPR Tiny Desk Concert Reflections

Austin’s Own BLK ODYSSY Shares Insights on His Unique Songwriting Process

Austin-based alt-pop artist, BLK ODYSSY, recently sat down for an intimate interview to share his experiences and inspiration behind his cinematic approach to songwriting. Best known for his work within the hip-hop and funk genres, ODYSSY is set to launch his highly anticipated third studio album, 1-800-FANTASY, on July 19th. He also reflected on his major career milestone, an NPR Tiny Desk concert performance, which took place earlier this year.

A Unique Take on Cinematic Songwriting

ODYSSY’s upcoming album, 1-800-FANTASY, presents a narrative journey conveyed through a sequence of interconnected songs. The storytelling concept, according to the artist himself, revolves around a young boy on his descent into madness, all depicted in the conceptual narrative of a hotline commercial.

ODYSSY, in conversation, commented on his unique approach, saying, “As a writer, I tend to tell stories more than write songs. When we create music, we have pictures in our minds, we are almost screenwriting while in the studio.”

Moving Music to the Screen

When asked about the translation of his songs into music videos, ODYSSY emphasized the visual component as an inherent aspect of his creative process. By composing his music with distinct narratives and cinematic scenes in mind, the process of crafting visual treatments for his songs becomes organic, and the narratives effortlessly adapt to a visual medium.

Reflections on NPR Tiny Desk Concert

In reflecting on his NPR Tiny Desk concert experience, ODYSSY confessed that it was both an incredible experience and a nerve-wracking milestone in his career. However, the significance of the event was not lost on ODYSSY. “You see all these humongous artists do this, and you want to follow suit. You want to live up to the standard of what that platform brings,” he said.

Upcoming Worldwide Headline Tour

ODYSSY will commence a worldwide headline tour, kicking off in Austin this August. Commenting on his hometown’s influence, ODYSSY shared, “It’s always cool to start off in your hometown… it’s always special and, to be forward, a bit forgiving.”

The Role of Aesthetics in Artistry

ODYSSY’s aesthetics play a unique role in establishing his artistry and identity, working to reflect and enhance his musical narrative. According to ODYSSY: “I feel very interchangeable and it’s always according to what I’m working on at that moment. On this record, we’re in the early 2000s/late 90s theme, and that’s what has been reflected in the style aesthetic.”