Michael Leonard Simmons is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist producer who recently made a return to music after an extended hiatus. He made his international debut last year with the release of the appropriately titled album “The Return!” Since then, the prolific artist has made up for lost time. In the past year he has released over a dozen singles, and a second full length album titled “Coolin.”
“Beyond Me” is the latest single from Michael Leonard Simmons, released worldwide to all major streaming services on April 2, 2021. The song is a deeply personal examination of life and purpose. The tune rides on a mellow downtempo groove that mixes analog and electronic elements for a hypnotic vibe. Deep synth bass is paired with a melodic guitar. Psychedelic backward guitar floats through the mix to create a surreal sound. Meanwhile, Michael alternates between a soulful lead vocal and a calm but deadly serious rap about looking beyond the surface, beyond the flesh. It is a song about being part of something larger than ourselves.
Check out “Beyond Me” below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Dive playlist. We had the opportunity to cheat with Michael Leonard Simmons about the song. Read yhis answers to our 8 questions. And follow the links at the end of this article to connect with the artist and get in the loop on all of his current and future projects.
8 Questions with Michael Leonard Simmons
Where are you from?
I’m from Central Florida
How long have you been making music?
I have been making music since I was 16 years old (about 20 years). However, I recently returned to music after taking a lengthy break.
Who are the musicians involved in your project?
I currently don’t have any features. Right now I’m the Artist, producer, and songwriter.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
I don’t have many to be honest. Coming up I listened to Jay Z, Nas, Biggie and Tupac. I love music with some substance to it. Something with meaning!
What is your greatest non-musical influence?
I would say God, as well as my life experiences. How I was raised up until now. All I have seen and done. Being that I love making meaningful music, I take a lot of my life experiences to the studio with me. A lot of people say I’m good at creating a certain vibe in my music, well this is why. The vibes are real. My view points are from a Godly mindset.
What inspired you to create this project?
Being that I have the mindset that I currently have, I felt it was necessary to speak on this topic. “Beyond Me” is something that we all should strive to do. We all should look Beyond the flesh, onto a person’s heart as God does. Judging the surface is simply unfair. It does that individual no justice for his/her actions. So In this song, you can see, and feel the hurt, however you should be motivated. Motivated because through it all, I still stand. I still rise, I still grind. What you see from a man within, tells you everything you need to know. So please, look a little deeper, “Beyond Me.”
What are your plans for the future (musically)?
Just to continue to make that Moody music you can feel. Creating the vibes of real life. I want to make an impact on people. I only hope it means as much to some, as it means to me.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I would like to thank Jesus Christ for this opportunity to let the world hear my voice. I would like to thank my followers and supporters for all that they do. It means so much to me to have y’all support. I’m just so grateful for each and everyone of you. Lastly, I would like for anyone who is looking for the real life vibes to check me out on Spotify! Please follow and share the vibes! Thank you for this interview, I appreciate this opportunity!
Connect:
Michael Leonard Simmons on the Deep Indie playlists
