Shwayze - Music of Malibu
The famed rapper dubbed “The King of Summer” Shwayze recently debuted his newest album, “Surf Trap,” released at the end of July 2020, with new singles off the album continuing to drop every few weeks.
Raised on the beaches of Southern California, Aaron Smith is a rapper, actor, musician, and father, became known to the world simply as Shwayze following a massive music breakout in 2008. His effortless, impeccable style has kept him on the radar of Elevated Luxury Lifestyle, marking him as our 2020 Fall Cover Star.
His latest new album marks a new chapter of a storied career for Shwayze. The “Buzzin” rapper skyrocketed to fame in 2008 with this single, which has garnered almost 16 million views, and his MTV show, both dubbed Buzzin.’ After much time in the studio, and quality time as a father, the chart topping rapper is excited for the world to check out his latest music from his “Surf Trap” album, with standout singles including “Hate Me” and “Stuck” w/ Cisco Adler.
The Malibu native released his debut album Buzzin’ that summer (2008) with singer-producer Cisco Adler. The duo hit the road immediately on the Vans Warped Tour. Shwayze has since gone on to work with an array of producers and release several independent albums such as Shwayze Summer on his self-funded Feel Good Entertainment Music label. He continues reinventing his sound while staying true to the influences that brought him where he is today.
The past decade has boasted an impressive resume including a top 10 album, Billboard chart topping singles including ‘Buzzin’ and ‘Corona & Lime,’ a rock-doc reality show on MTV, and a number of roles in feature films and major network television- all while living on the road much of the year touring the world.
Shwayze continues to perform around the world and each year he finds new territories and fanbases to connect with. Last year he rolled out the highly anticipated full length EP “Beach Boy’, and his latest album “Surf Trap” that dropped this July is marking a new chapter of a storied career.
What was your influence for the sound of the album?
I wanted to stay true to my sound while sonically taking it to the next level. I worked with one of my favorite producers, Paul Couture, and we finished the album while on lockdown. I am extremely proud of this project and think it’s one of my best to date
What was your inspiration for the album?
I am a Malibu boy at heart, so my music is a product of my environment. Beach, Summer and ‘Feel Good’ music. Good Vibes Only!
Did you collaborate with any other artists or musicians on the album?
I worked with Cisco Adler, the Reggae band Hirie, and Fxckyeah (Formally Sky Blu from LMFAO) on the album tracks. I also have a new track out with the Common Kings called ‘California Day’ available on Spotify and Apple Music.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Red Hot Chili Peppers, NERD, Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder, OutKast, The Police, 2Pac, Lenny Kravitz to name a few.
What does Malibu life currently mean to you?
Malibu life is more special than ever right now. I grew up here, but like most places you grow up, you tend to spend all your time trying to get away. I moved to Hollywood, then Austin, Texas and most recently to New York City, all while staying on the road playing shows year round. COVID has forced me to come back home and spend time with my family, and it’s been a beautiful reminder of how much I love this town, and how it’s influenced my
lifestyle and music.
What message do you want your music to provide?
All good vibes. I’ve been coined the ‘King of the Summer’ by my listeners so it’s important to me to provide that escape from reality for them. No matter what season or what city you’re in when you pop on my music you’re right where you want to be.
What is a luxurious lifestyle to you?
I’m a simple man. Give me my health, my family, a few good friends, and a Bluetooth speaker...that’s all the luxury I need.
Find your own definition of luxury, because if you use someone else’s definition you’ll never be satisfied with what you have. Music is a great way to know you’re not alone in the way you think or feel. Find the artist, genre, or song you connect with and sing, dance, play your heart out.
