In a unique access all areas series, south London based photographer Joseph McDermott goes behind the scenes with music’s finest.

Straight after tearing up his performance at Reading Festival, Joseph meets ‘Energy’ MC Avelino aka Young Fire to chat…

Who are you and where are you from? 


I go by the name of Avelino. I’m from London. Tottenham to be exact, which is a beautiful place in the North.



How did you get into music-making? 


Just looking for a means of expression and I just ended up writing lyrics.



And how would you describe your sound? 


I think the best way to describe music is the word ‘depth’. I used to say ‘versatility’ when I was younger but I realised it’s deeper than that. 


 

If somebody hasn’t listened to Avelino, where should they start?


Spotify or Apple Music. I’d like to think you can start with any body of work. FYOP EP / Young Fire, Old Flame Mixtape. Check the back catalogue.



Your dream line-up, who’s on the bill?


Avelino and Jay-Z. That’s it.



Who’s your favourite artist right now?


SZA, her new album is crazy beautiful. 




Who would you say are your biggest inspirations in music? 

Jay-Z, Michael Jackson, Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Frank Ocean, too many to name. Big boy artists. 


Who’s your favourite artist / producer to collaborate with?

My friend Wretch 32.
 


And who would you like to collaborate with in terms of artists/producers that you haven’t yet?

Jay-Z.



What can we expect next from Avelino?


More music, we’re in project mode in the moment. 

 


Any final comments? 


God is great. Simple as.