Premiere • Boyang Matsapola: "ShoNuff"

Boyang Matsapola is a name that's been a rund for a minute, hiding just below the surface. Today, the longtime bassist for The O'My's takes a step beyond that environment with the debut of his first solo single to date, "Sho' Nuff" produced by Dee Lilly which gets a premiere via TheseDays today.  Since joining Nick, Maceo and the crew a few years back, Boyang has emerged as a talented force unto himself, branching out lately on several projects while helping to craft the next project from the longtime soul group. On this one, we get a peek into what many at select sets or jams around the city have known for a minute as Boyang shows off the full range of his vocal ability in an impressive and appropriate initial offering that left us here at TheseDays wanting more. We of course caught up with the man himself to get a further peek into the single. Check that out below, the track streaming above and keep it locked for plenty more coming soon.

TheseDays • What's it like to step out on your own with this single?

Boyang • It feels like I am stepping out the front door for the first time & people get to hear who I really am. There is something deeply personal about showing your voice to other people. 

TheseDays • Haven't been playing the bass that long, whats the quick evolution been like?

Boyang • When I first arrived to Chicago I was struck with a realization that the music was on an entirely different level. I then invested time into studying, practicing music as well as studying the musicians around me. Entering the O'MY's gave me the opportunity to not only accomplish that but also travel the country playing music, learning from a larger community of artists.

TheseDays • Working with The O'My's, how has that shaped production approach?

Boyang • I've been making music with the O'my's for almost 5 years now. When Nick, Maceo, etc, and myself talk about music it's clear we are all on the same page, we share blood sorta speak. There is a tradition of making music that can feel new and timeless at the same time. Musical traditions that are hopeful and inspiring. This record and those records are connected, however for music and musicianship to evolve we have to see and hear it through different lenses all the time. I felt like where Dee Lilly and I went felt honest within the kinship of that same spirit.

TheseDays • You've been working a lot more with different acts, any in particular he's been impressed by or particularly enjoyed?

Boyang • Firstly, Watching Dee Lilly create music is what I imagine people felt when they saw Duke Ellington compose. It's always Rich, Playful, and Black at the same time.  Kaina and The Burnstwins have a magic right now that i think people weren't ready for,  and a creative brilliance that is going to make them more and more influential in our musical conversations.  Thempeople, I think are some of the most imaginative and freely creating individuals.  However, When I am on stage with other artists, I try to live within their music. That is how we get to know and ultimately learn from one another.

TheseDays • What's next for Boyang?

Boyang • Odd Couple released his album this week, "Liberation" and I collaborated with him on pieces of his project. I'm excited that my EP will be dropping, top of next year. But what is truly next for Boyang is the product of me expressing myself within multitudes of making music. Projects with artists I've been in the works with will be coming out with my name under songwriting, singing, and production. Still lots more performances to come. Essentially, Boyang is evolving.