With the current COVID-19 pandemic bringing the industrial world to a halt, Melbourne-based artist Neo Pitso has maintained productivity by utilising the time spent in lockdown focussing and honing his skills. What’s more, it’s afforded him the opportunity to write a heartfelt new single which comes in the form of a compelling tribute dedicated to his ex.

The record’s title ‘Crüe Lobe‘ pays homage to the iconic heavy metal band Mötley Crüe, as well as a T-shirt owned by his former flame that read ‘True Love’, although it was stylised in such a way that it read ‘Crue Lobe’ instead.

Therefore, Pitso found this single befitting as it explores the comprehension of how his past relationship with definitive feelings of true love, sadly turned out to be everything but.

LISTEN TO ‘CRÜE LOBE‘ BELOW!

With the single’s release, TLF managed to link up with Neo Pitso to learn more about his story, all things ‘Crüe Lobe‘, advice for upcoming artists, future plans, and more!

Check out the full interview below:

Who is Neo Pitso?
Australia’s best kept secret AKA Mr. Obsessed With Success, someone who is continually working towards a worthy ideal. A goal achiever, rapper, philanthropist, lawyer, motivational speaker, activist, quarter to millionaire, mouth piece for hustlers, and a Welkom Boy who takes some getting used to.

Who are some of your biggest influences?
By far it would have to be Eminem. Eminem’s “My Name Is” was the first song I learnt off by heart. To date, I know way more Eminem songs off by heart than all other artists combined. Biggie would be second and in no order after that Nas, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z and Kanye West.

What motivates you to pursue music?
I got booed off stage at age 16 and again a little later. Those particular events made me question what I’m doing music for; fame, money, something more? Staying on stage to complete my set despite the barrage of boos made me realise just how passionate I am about music and how I wouldn’t let anyone or a crowd convince me otherwise.

Congratulations on the release of ‘Crüe Lobe’!
What does this record mean to you?
To define the single is to limit what it means to me. I don’t think I could find the right words to adequately describe the feeling of putting out a single that exposes my vulnerabilities.

This feels like one of your most vulnerable records to date, what was the process like behind bringing this single together?
Anyone who has had a relationship breakdown can attest that it’s one of the worst feelings ever. After a 12 year relationship I used writing as my therapy because I’m not gonna lie I was hurting. I laugh now but it hurt so bad at the time.

Funny thing is, I would call up phone counsellors and make up stories to let it all out to them. I thought people would ridicule me for being upset over a break-up, so I’d say things like I lost a beloved pet that was with the family for 15 years haha. The guy on the other side of the phone was an absolute champ, I wish I remembered his name to send him a bottle of champagne as a thank you. Although my story to him was fake, the pain was real and he helped me in ways I never thought possible. Bless that dude wherever he may be.

What advice do you have for all aspiring artists out there chasing their dreams?
Don’t ever call yourself an aspiring artist. From the day you pick up a pen you become an artist. Walk like one, talk like one. Your dreams are valid, don’t let anyone project their insecurities and inferiority complex on you.

Respect your craft (don’t get drunk at shows or in studio), read and expand your vocabulary, educate yourself on the business side of the industry and try and create multiple income streams.

The most important thing is to own your masters and keep it real with yourself. There’s already a Nas, Jay-Z, J Cole etc. Be You.

What’s one goal you hope to achieve before the year is out?
I would like to have 52 songs available on Spotify by October 31st, and aiming for 1 million total streams by December 31st. Wish me well!

STREAM ‘CRÜE LOBE‘ NOW ON APPLE MUSIC AND SPOTIFY!