Multi-instrumentalist, singer, rapper, songwriter, producer, mixing and mastering engineer Tyler Trench, aka Shamplooh, has a habit of deleting himself from the internet. Encouraged by partner in life and music, Afrodizjha, he’s giving fame another shot with single Comeback King, a jazzy hip hop track that’s quite the bop. NZ On Air Music featured it to their NewTracks complication in May.

What are your name, where are you from and what instruments do you play?

My name is Tyler Trench and I’m from the UK, but most people just assume I’m American since my accent is kind’a twisted. This is because my father is Afro-American and I spent a lot of time bouncing between the two countries as child/teenager. I play guitar, bass, ukulele, trumpet, drums, piano and whatever else I can get my grubby mitts on. Singing and rapping too if you want to count that?

Was any high school or other music training especially important to you?

High school music was an absolute snooze fest here in NZ. I dropped it within a week and swapped to dance. I had maybe a month of guitar lessons around Year 7 in the UK, but hated the rigid/boring structure and ended up teaching myself from then on. Best decision I ever made.

Any other musical projects that we might we know you from?

I have been by about 10 plus names at this point. I set up a collective called Foreknowledge when I was 16 of the global artists I still work with. Most likely never heard of me because I keep deleting myself from the internet. Shamplooh is my last attempt to make this work.

What’s the background story to Shamplooh? 

Shamplooh is an alteration of the word ‘champloo’ which means ‘to mix’. I was heavily inspired by Nujabes when I first started out making hip hop beats. The Sham part comes from how as an artist you always have these moments of imposter syndrome.

When did you come up with the name for the new project?

I came up with the name not too long ago, maybe 2-3 months ago now. I was racking my brain after my partner Afrodizjha talked some sense back into me and told me I should start releasing music again. Up until this point it had all been collecting dust on my computer. After brainstorming and asking my close friends, everyone agreed Shamplooh fit me the best.

How has your writing  evolved from your early beginnings to now?

I mean my music has always had a certain goofiness to it. 100% reflection of myself. The only thing that has really changed is my skill to play instruments, produce, mix, master, and write.

Aside from this release, what’s been the big highlight to date?

Probably releasing my first promo I posted for Comeback King, my first song since coming back to this and having more support than I’ve ever had from people around me. The fact that I got to create that content with my partner was awesome and a real eye-opener to what together we can achieve.

What makes Comeback King stand out for you as a single?

It’s different. That’s all I was really going for. I’m not out here trying to copy and paste what’s popular or what works, that isn’t art that’s business.

What is the story behind Comeback King?

Being prone to disappear I wanted to really announce that I was back for good this time. I was hoping other artists in my shoes would be inspired to keep going and put their own tracks/art/you name it out.

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, of the track?

“No wikipedia, 10 plus years music still won’t feed ya,” – enough said.

Who did yourecord/produce the single with and where? 

I wrote and produced the whole song in my bedroom as per usual. Stock standard for me at this point. No crazy story, I love making music and that’s it.

What would you like listeners to take away from this song?

Don’t let your fear of looking foolish hold you back from living a fulfilled life fam.

How do you generally work out what song would make a good single?

I decided I would ever make an EP or album again until I made enough money to support myself with music or I find it’s just a waste. I’m simply just releasing music without a second thought. If it sticks, great. If not, I’m still proud of it. I wouldn’t release it otherwise.

Who else is in your team?

Afrodizjha and buggsbuddy. Afrodizjha is my partner and is always inspiring me to chase what I want and be the best version of myself I can be. She is an excellent singer/writer/photographer and keeps me grounded. buggsbuddy, my little brother (not by blood). Me and that guy have been making beats together for I think about five plus years at this point. He always gives me the most honest feedback and we work crazy well together. You’ll be hearing a lot of tracks co-produced by him in the near future.

Are there any other musical endeavours you’re working on that we should keep an eye out for?

I dropped a song with NZ’s own VIËW, an absolute legend in his own right. The song is called DnD and it was released shortly after Comeback King. I’m currently planning promo content around it. In early June Bad Energy, a track with buggsbuddy, is coming out.

Can you please name three other local tunes that would fit well on a playlist alongside your song. 

• Phodiso – Rough
• View & Mike Tea – 25
• Rizván – Livin Life

Have any previous NZOA applications not gained funding or been included on NewTracks? Got any advice for others?

Keep going. This system is funky as all hell to say the least. I’ve seen the same Auckland-based artists get funding after funding, opportunity after opportunity. We need more diversity. So keep at it! If you’re struggling with anything music related hit me up because I love helping others find their sound and be heard.

Are there any musical blogs, Youtube channels or podcasts you’re super into?

Not really. The best advice and inspiration is usually found in people around you.

Any last words?

Thanks for helping me chase the dream. All artists that read this, get your asses back to making what you love. Peace.