‘I think about how we fit together musically’: HRVY

Pop’s rising superstar HRVY (Harvey Leigh Cantwell) has dropped a smashing single that’s being called the perfect end-of-summer club rager. For this, he has joined forces with the multi-platinum English  DJ, remixer and music producer, Jonas Blue (Guy James Robin). The Personal hitmaker tells us about the collaboration and upcoming works.

How did the collaboration with Jonas come about?

Jonas and I have known each other for a couple of years. He used to — still does — come to a lot of my shows and I used to sing a lot of his songs (Mama, Rise, Polaroid) but we never had a track together. He was in the studio a couple of months ago, writing Younger. He had me in mind and then he texted me if I wanted to do it. I wasn’t going to say no, so I jumped at it. I went to record it, and we did a video in Los Angeles, USA. And now, it’s out. It is basically just about wanting to stay younger forever. It’s been a really fun collaboration. 

Take us through the experience of being in the studio with him...

Jonas is extremely talented. When I was in the studio, I learnt a lot from him, how he produces and thinks of different aspects. He’s so creative and great at lyrics as well. He’s extremely hard-working and a good person to look up to in terms of music.

What do you primarily look for in a collaborator?

I think about how we fit together musically and I’ve to love their music. But another big factor is they have to be nice people because you have to spend a lot of time on the road, shows and studio. So, there has to be a natural connection. 

Jonas Blue and HRVY

Younger comes after Told you So, I Miss Myself and Don’t Need your Love this year. Are you already working on a new single?

Actually, I’ve already recorded a music video, which will be out in the next month-and-a-half. It’s a little bit more mature. I wouldn’t say it’s dark but definitely more emotive. It’s dance-y and a bit up-tempo. We shot the video in LA. 

What else are you working on?

At the end of the year, and then start of next year, I’m going to release a new project, which I’m excited about. It’s a new space for me. The music is a bit different and again mature. Hope people are going to like it.

At 20, you are a teen idol...

Yeah, I’ve had a lot of people messaging me on Instagram, talk to me at my shows and ask for advice, which is nice. It’s also humbling. I just want to be a good role model and give people some sound advice. I’ve been making music since I was 13 and I’m 20 now. I’ve had some experience but I’m still learning and look up to people myself. But being a role model to young people feels cool. 

You are called UK’s Justin Timberlake and he is your inspiration, too. Are you working towards a collaboration with him?

I’d love to collaborate with him. He’s been a big idol of mine since I was younger. I used to watch all of his shows and interviews. Even if I go into the studio and have a writing session with him, that’d be amazing.