Bo Weber
Last updated on February 18th, 2022 at 10:05 pm
Circa 93 is a newly formed R&B/Pop duo based in Minneapolis consisting of singer-songwriter, Joui (pronounced “Joey”), and producer Luke Chase.
Today is an important day as they drop their debut single “Don’t Have To,” beginning their joint efforts in spreading their music across the globe.
Listen as Joui’s R&B vocals glide over Luke’s production of hip-hop rhythm and gritty synth bass accompanied by groovy electric guitar.
With modern hip-hop production at the foundation, Circa 93’s sound and name nod to elements of traditional R&B/Pop and the year of their birth.
In an era where pop music is becoming increasingly futuristic and genre’s are becoming fluid, these throwback elements (sonically and visually) are something Joui and Luke make a conscious decision to sprinkle throughout their work.
When asked about the meaning of the song, the two explain. “It’s about a very specific relationship dynamic describing the “chicken and egg” situation of insecurity and how it can send both parties searching for answers.”
Joui grew up in the Philippines and moved to America in 2007, influenced by vocalists like J Holiday, Chris Brown, and bands like the Backstreet Boys.
After collaborating on a few songs as solo artists and friends from college, Luke and Joui decided to channel their efforts into a new project. Thus, Circa 93 was born.
We really embrace the new wave of Hip-Hop/R&B crossover. We also don’t want people to forget how artists like an Usher or a Ne-Yo made us all feel. Throw a new John Mayer album into the universe though and Joui might just play acoustic guitar for a month, which I love. – Luke
What people are saying
Circa 93 fuses modern production with 90’s nostalgia in a really fresh way. Joseph’s smooth vocals sit perfectly over Luke’s production. Very excited to see what’s to come for this duo.” – Jack Vondrachek, Guitarist, MILKK
“Luke and Joui have both the natural talent and the work ethic to make a huge splash in the local pop scene. When they start creating together with a vision, they catch fire and don’t compromise on their sound or brand.” – Henry Donato, Drummer, John Chuck & The Class
“Circa 93 has that pop and Hip-Hop bounce with a hint of mid-00’s R&B flavor. They effortlessly weave their own sound in with nostalgic influences to create their own lane.” – Jordan Alamat, On-Air Host, Go 96.3
“Don’t Have To” is now available for stream and purchase on all platforms. Support Circa 93 by subscribing, or purchasing their single on Spotify, iTunes and Soundcloud and Youtube.
Comments
0 comments