On Bryce Vine’s Time
His Sweet Sound and Upcoming Album
From show business beginnings in New York City, to the reality series The Glee Project, to releasing two charting singles, Bryce Vine’s journey as a hip-hop artist has been turbulent. But it’s also given way to one of the freshest sounds in the genre and on pop radio today.
The 31-year-old grew up in close proximity to the entertainment business via his mother Tracey Ross, known for her performances in 90’s soap operas. Vine quickly fell in love with music, particularly R&B after being introduced to it when he was just 13. Soon after, he taught himself to play the guitar and began his pursuit of professional musicianship.
Vine scored a record deal a year after earning a finalist spot on The Glee Project in 2011 and attending the Berklee College of Music, where he met producer Nolan Lambroza. Vine’s first EP, a six-track collection titled Lazy Fair, was released in 2014 to widespread praise. The EP included the single “Sour Patch Kids,” a favorite among fans and others tuned into the rising star’s innovative sonic blend of hip-hop and indie pop.
Night Circus, a second EP, was released in 2014. Three years later came Vine’s first major hit, “Drew Barrymore.” Its rhythmic blend of a soft techno melody and sexy rap lyrics quickly propelled the song to success –– it peaked at 22 on the U.S. pop chart.
Next month, Vine will release his first full-length album, Carnival. It will include “Drew Barrymore,” another successful collaborative single titled “Bella,” and his latest hit “La La Land.” The track is a modern R&B track with crooning guitar riffs and a rap feature by YG. Vine’s individualistic sound comprised of genre blending and clever lyricism will be on full display in the album, which will certainly be among the best debuts of the year.
