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One Acen talks Casa Bacardi, live shows and new music

CASA BACARDI: The Sound of Rum Crew

SEEKING TO “shine a spotlight on the UK’s eclectic music scene”, Casa Bacardi returns this weekend. Artists One Acen, P Money, Donae’O and Br3nya all feature in the brand’s Sound of Rum Crew, and will tour several UK locations – London, Glasgow and Leeds.

The members of the Sound of Rum Crew’ were all carefully curated as they represent the changing face of Caribbean influenced genres in 2019. As the campaign sets to return with its London ‘Boxpark’ Croydon showcase tomorrow (September 14), Life & Style spoke to afro-swing performer One Acen about his involvement.

Why did you want to get involved in the Casa Barcardi Sound of Rum campaign?

I’m very interested in live events. I’m always on Instagram, Youtube and Twitter looking at a mix of artists, watching their live performances. When Drake was here for his Scorpion tour, I paid attention and loved how he interacted with the crowd. Even girl groups when they perform live, they always have their steps, routines, voices in sync – I like that. I’m a fan of P Money and Donae’O too, so when this came along, I had to say yes.

How important are live performances to you as an artist?

Extremely, it’s where I shine the most. I’m always trying to incorporate the things that I just spoke about into my live experiences. It’s the most important part of the music experience and being an artist.

What’s your favourite Bacardi cocktail?

You know what, I’m not a drinker drinker, however when I do drink it would be a Bacardi Piña Colada.


PERFORMING: One Acen

Which city are you most looking forward to performing in?

I’m torn on this one, because I haven’t really touched Scotland just yet, but I’ve heard that the crowds over there are mental. I think it’s because, sometimes, they don’t get all of the acts going there, so when artists do put them on their tour dates, they show them massive amounts of love and appreciation for that. So it’s either there or my home [London], man.

What’s coming up for you beyond these performances?

I’m prepping my new EP, hopefully due out before the close of the year. I don’t want to put in a date, but it should be November, I have one more track to record. This one is quite experimental, as you’ve heard with my single, I’ve tried genres such as trap and enjoyed it.

Speaking of genres, as an afro-swing artist, how do you perceive the genre in reference to pre-existing genres in the UK?

I think it’s so amazing. The fact that we could incorporate UK hip-hop, the Caribbean dancehall elements and afrobeats, we’ve made our own little genre too. Early 2017 is when this all really started to create a movement, so it’s great to finally have peers that can help in moving this thing even further forward. It can be repetitive, I’ve heard what people say, but aren’t all genres? All have elements which can be overdone.

Do you plan to work with any of your fellow Bacardi ‘Sound of Rum’ crew members?

Yes, Donae’O and P Money, their energy was great when I met them both and it just reaffirmed my appreciation for them. I’m eager to get in the studio, because when you connect on a level like that, why not create good music out of it.

For more information on Casa Bacardi at Boxpark Croydon and to buy tickets click here

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