Portland’s Reva DeVito and Yung Bae deliver a fresh slice of groove-heavy R&B magic with new single “Life Vest” via Ultra Music (Calvin Harris,Deadmau5, Kaskade, Sofi Tukker). DeVito’s vocals float on the surface of Yung Bae’s playful future-funk production, combining into the perfect end-of-summer anthem that evokes a sound both classically cool and refreshingly modern. The single today follows August’s breezy “One Shot,” featuring nu-funk maestro Midas Hutch (Amsterdam-raised DJ, producer FS Green).
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
The making of this project has no wild origin story, planned execution or anything like that. It’s more a compilation of working with talented friends and collaborators over the last few years and finally getting to a place in my arsenal of bops where I felt ready to release a body of work. The project itself is more like the story in that regard.
What is the favorite song you wrote and why?
haha this is a hard one! I am really proud of the writing on this project but its probably a three way tie between three songs. ‘the supply’ which is out already and felt good writing not only because of the melodic groove but the topic deals with being your own boss which is an important theme for this capricorn lady. the next one will be the title track which is called ‘goodbye for now’ which was extremely cathartic for me to write as it is about a devastating break up I went through a few years back. It helped me let go and move forward. And the third favorite is called ‘The Light’. This one is about having hope, which has been important to hold on to since the pandemmy.
Who are your all time musical icons?
Sade. Bonnie Raitt. Mariah Carey. Prince. Little Dragon.
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
Go out as far as I can into nature with some of my best girlfriends and no cell service and camp for a few days. Take long baths with candles and jazz. Run at least 10 miles a week. Setting goals and accomplishing them. Sunsets and thrifting with bae. Working on several songs at once. Watching my friends and family win and thrive.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Sault. Dijon. John Carroll Kirby. Chiild. Mereba. Mr Mk.gee. Fred Again
Favorite movie or TV show?
Movie: Jerry Mcguire TV: Ted Lasso/ GOT/ L word
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
Last single is called ‘Life Vest’ with Yung Bae. Me and him have been friends for ages and we finally got a track together. It’s more upbeat and one I wanted to come out for end of summer dance parties, or just dance parties in general. Something good for the DJ’s!
Do you have any peculiar pre or post show rituals?
I like to have a drink and a stretch to loosen up for sure, but one of my favorite pre show rituals is warming up with the band at sound check. Often we bust into random grooves and all get to flex our freestyle muscles a bit, which feels great on my brain.
What’s the future looking like for you?
Future lookin bright baby! I see lots of shows in many parts of the world, a profound body of work, fun artistic collaborations and visions brought to life and hopefully many ears and hearts touched by the songs!
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
The 80’s boss bitches in power suits, Italian guys in the 50’s, r&b queen queen glam, Patagonia ads from the 90’s, Meryl Steep in a River Wild.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
Working with Kaytranada because he is the king of kings and one of my favorite producers ever. Also performing at Corona Capitol with my boys Miami Horror in front of like 25k people!
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
Be yourself no matter what you believe others think or what others might want from you. I find that I get the best response when I am truly vulnerable and honest with people. The raw stuff baby. Also, just keep going! You make the art because it needs to come out, not because you want a trophy or some shit.
What would you change in the music and entertainment industry especially after this past year?
More women, people of color, non binary folks in executive roles or in high standing roles in the industry. More artists that transition to exec roles because they know what it feels like to have their art on the table. More money going to venues keeping them open for when this virus is easier to beat. Relying less on Instagram to carry us. Better resources for indie artists to get their music heard. Playlisting for all! haha
