Beatcave Records Presents: The Journey Behind "Havana" by Curalma

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Fearlessness

My journey has been one of profound self-discovery. I've had to work through a lot of fear to get to where I am today, and I know there's still more to overcome to reach my goals. The music I create is my expression of fearlessness—authentic, liberating, and designed to make you move. I'm incredibly proud that "Havana" embodies these qualities. It's a piece that has kept me moving forward and believing in myself.

Organic Inspiration and Creation

The inspiration for "Havana" came during a CAMP session, an event organized by Beatcave where artists come together to create. It was an organic and surreal moment. As soon as Fayz got on the mic and laid down the melody for the hook, we all felt something special. This moment set the tone for the rest of the track, making it a pivotal point in my creative process.

Themes of Love, Honesty, Joy, and Pain

In my music, I like to explore themes of love, honesty, joy, and pain. I believe in the duality of these emotions and how they balance each other. Music is a great vehicle to demonstrate this, as we can be dancing, grooving, and sweating while singing heartbreaking lyrics. "Havana" offers a healing experience, leaving listeners feeling refreshed and alive.

A Global Sound with Canadian Roots

"Havana" is an Afro-Pop track that honors global cultures while maintaining a distinct Canadian touch. The song features multiple languages and artists from different parts of the world, reflecting a rich tapestry of influences. I aimed to create a beat that focused on the Afro-Caribbean connection, incorporating Latin American rhythms to create a track that is both familiar and unique.

Trusting the Creative Process

The creation of "Havana" was marked by serendipitous moments and valuable lessons. A miscommunication during a CAMP session led to an unexpected room change, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I chose a beat that felt right, and the collaborative atmosphere in the new room fostered creativity and camaraderie. This experience reinforced the importance of trusting the process and staying open to unexpected opportunities.

Challenges and Highlights

Despite the roadblocks and moments of doubt, I remained committed to serving the song. Every time I listened to "Havana," it always had the same feeling of joy, rhythm, and music. Collaborating with engineers, particularly Jesse Yonge from Secret Weapon Sound, was instrumental in elevating the track. These collaborations not only enhanced the final product but also allowed me to grow and learn.

Impact and Aspirations

"Havana" represents a significant milestone in my career, symbolizing my readiness to make a mark in the music industry. I hope that listeners will feel joy and share the song with their loved ones, creating moments of celebration and connection. I envision "Havana" breaking into the culture both locally and globally, showcasing the vibrant and diverse music scene in Toronto.

A Personal and Cultural Tapestry

My personal background, with roots in Guatemala, Tanzania, and Indian ancestry, informs my music-making process. I aim to honor and showcase the cultures I am a part of, creating music that keeps culture alive and resonates with a global audience. "Havana" is a culmination of these influences, blending different musical elements to create a track that feels timeless and of high quality.

Looking Forward

With "Havana" now available on all streaming platforms, I look forward to future performances and opportunities. I'm grateful for the collaborative process and the chance to share my music with the world. I can’t wait to play it during a set and bust out some dance moves, inviting you all to join me on this exciting musical journey.

Beatcave Records continues to push the boundaries of music innovation, and I'm honored that "Havana" is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and creativity. This track marks the beginning of my artistic evolution, and I promise to bring good vibes and energy to the world with my music.

LISTEN TO HAVANA