Caribbean-born artist, Chris Catlin, has mastered the “art of feeling,” combining his hip-hop talents with raw vulnerability and a refreshing blend of reggae-inspired sounds, on latest releases, “Otherside,” and “Roses and Flames.”
For Catlin, the art of feeling is more than just an expression of emotion, it’s the fire that fuels his passion for music.
“Music speaks to your soul,” Catlin shared. “I can listen to a song in a completely different language without knowing a single word and that song can make me feel exactly what it’s meant to, even without knowing a word. That’s what I love about music…It’s all about feeling for me,” he added.
Originally hailing from the city of Georgetown, Grand Cayman, the influence of Caribbean culture can be felt in Catlin’s music, underscoring his self-described “smooth and moody” sound, while also shaping his musical tastes and inspirations.
“I grew up in the Caribbean, so that lifestyle and the culture being so musically driven has a clear impact on my sound,” the singer said. “My dad–who was an amazing guitar player–influenced my sound, and I also love artists like Collie Buddz and Popcaan, who embody that dancehall sound,” he added.
Glimmers of dancehall influence can be clearly heard on songs like “Roses and Flames,” an upbeat, rhythmic track that touches on a heavy subject—the death of Catlin’s father.
““Roses and Flames” was inspired by the death of my father. When he passed I realized it started to hurt less and less the more time passed,” Catlin shared. “This made me understand that the less it hurt, the more his memory faded away. So the song is about hoping the pain stays…The pain is equal to the love,” he added.
Continuing his play on the theme of loss, Catlin’s recent release track, “Otherside,” touches on the loss of a romantic relationship, giving listeners “another side of life where we can learn to let it all go,” Catlin shared.
So, what’s next for Chris Catlin? According to the singer, several projects are currently in the works, with an upcoming reggae project taking center stage.
Though there’s no word on the official release dates of these next projects, fans of the budding singer can check out his latest releases, “Otherside,” and “Roses and Flames,” as well as where to find social media updates, below!
Chris Catlin opens up about loss on his latest releases, “Roses and Flames” and “Otherside”
