Getting To Know: Burney

Surrey-born rapper Burney catapults into uncharted realms with his latest single, "In Love With The Idea." This mesmerizing mid-tempo creation transcends conventional hip-hop, weaving a tale that navigates the enchanting yet elusive realms of idealized love. Drawing inspiration from classic hip-hop roots and infusing a contemporary twist alongside the soulful warmth of the 70s and 80s, Burney crafts a sonic landscape that pays homage to the past while embracing the future. Following the triumph of "Tie Me Down," this new single propels listeners into an introspective, cathartic journey, blending storytelling and musical prowess with undeniable whip-appeal vibes. We had a chat with him as he reflected on another standout year, enjoy!

1. "In Love With The Idea" is described as a departure from conventional hip-hop, blending classic hip-hop with a modern twist and elements from 70s and 80s R&B/soul. What inspired you to explore this unique fusion of genres, and how do you feel it contributes to the emotional depth of the track?

I've always loved the drum machines and old synth sounds used in 80s music and have wanted to make something inspired by that for a while. With contemporary artists like Majid Jordan making 80s infused tracks we had some modern points of reference too, and I think by recording in live guitar and synths we achieved a really massive sound. For me, hearing real instruments on any track gives it that human element and allows me to connect to it on a deeper level, and I think we created something that offers this too.

2. The single explores the theme of idealized love and the emotional complexities of projecting fantasies onto others. Can you delve deeper into the personal experiences or reflections that led to the creation of "In Love With The Idea"? How do you navigate vulnerability in your songwriting, especially with this track?

Obviously I can't name any names but I can remember times when I was 'unlucky in love' and I would come back after spending the weekend in someone's company convinced that we were meant to be together. It would never last at the time, and thankfully I'm in a far better place now, but for this particular song and many others of mine I think it's important to be vulnerable and honest in order to make something that I can listen back to at any point and say yeah, that's my story from that particular chapter of my life. 

3. DJ Semtex, known for his recognition of hip-hop talent, endorsed "In Love With The Idea" even before its release. How does it feel to receive support from someone with such a keen eye for emerging artists, and how has this endorsement impacted your journey as a rapper?

To get the nod from DJ Semtex was insane and to have my talent recognised by someone who's been in the game for so long is inspiring. It's one of many steps that need to happen for me to gain any kind of momentum in this industry and it's hugely encouraging for me to keep going and doing what I can to get noticed.

4. Your musical journey gained momentum in 2021 with the track "San Pellegrino," earning recognition from BBC Introducing The South and even catching the attention of San Pellegrino. How has this recognition influenced your artistic approach and the themes you explore in your music?

Honestly, not much at all. I think even in 2021 I was trying to make the best music that I could and San Pellegrino is the only thing that stood the test of time from then. Being able to get the attention of San Pellegrino the drinks company did show me how using social media well can pay off but I don't write every song with a brand in mind now. 

5. "In Love With The Idea" is noted as one of your most vulnerable tracks, reflecting on unsuccessful dating experiences. Can you share more about the creative process behind the song, particularly in terms of infusing vulnerability into both the lyrics and the production?

The reason I actually wrote this song is because I was having a conversation with my friend Lucas about the aforementioned unsuccessful dating experiences and I said to him, "they don't love me, they just love the idea of me" and he told me "there's a song in that". So this was the starting point and I obviously had fresh wounds from a number of unsuccessful situations to spur the lyrics on, so it was just a case of putting it together in a way that sounded beautiful. I sing a higher octave in the chorus as well which is subtle but makes it sound so nice, and as I've previously said the way Will laid down the guitar was so pure and human that it feels literally perfect. 

6. As an artist hailing from Surrey and having graced prestigious stages like The Isle of Wight Festival, how has your background and live performance experiences shaped your distinctive musical style? How do you see your evolution from being part of the collective Dirtbag By Association to establishing yourself as a solo artist?

I think I'm still learning about how Surrey can shape my style of music because for years it was a very disconnected and distant place in terms of music in general and definitely hip-hop, but I'm always honest in what I say on tracks and that'll never change and now that suburban kids are making a wave in the scene it makes me think even more that I can too. The times I've had with DBA on stage have honestly been the most fun I've ever had, and the main reason I do music is for that buzz I get off performing live so I'm continuing to harness that energy and push on for some bigger shows in 2024.