Genuine Duo Brings Vintage R&B, Soul to DocuRock

Genuine is a music duo formed in 2023, featuring Geneviève Pépin from Canada on vocals and Ewin Pérez from Tenerife on guitar. Their sound is a rich blend of styles, drawing inspiration from the warm Memphis sound (like classics from the legendary Stax Records label), New Orleans funk, and the deep tones of classic Chicago R&B, reminiscent of Motown's golden era.

Catch their next show this Friday, October 31, at 9:00 PM at Equipo PARA in Santa Cruz. It's part of the DocuRock festival, supported by the Cabildo de Tenerife, the Canary Islands Government, and the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council. Tickets cost six euros, or three euros for Equipo PARA members, and can be bought at tickety.es.

What are your musical beginnings?

Geneviève Pépin: "I grew up in a musical family; my grandfather made instruments. I started learning music at eight, with piano, singing, and music theory. I stopped singing for a while as an adult but picked it up again at 37. My singing teacher encouraged me to go on the TV show 'La Voz' (The Voice)."

Ewin Pérez: "As a child, I played drums and was exposed to all sorts of music through my family. I even started by playing on a shoebox! Music has always been a part of me. I picked up the guitar at 14 and started playing bass at 21."

How was your experience on 'La Voz'?

G.P.: "It was a fantastic learning experience. I had to practice a lot and discovered a lot about myself as a singer. It also let me meet other artists."

Why do you sing?

G.P.: "It simply brings me joy."

Why do you play guitar?

E.P.: "I play guitar because I need to express what's on my mind."

How did Genuine form?

G.P.: "We met while working on other music projects. In 2023, we got curious about the sound we could create as a duo, and that's how Genuine started. It's the project where I feel I can express myself best."

E.P.: "We both came from other bands, playing both cover songs and original music."

Are cover songs becoming too dominant?

E.P.: "Everyone starts with covers, but I think there's too much focus on quantity over quality. People often go for what's profitable. I play in several tribute bands aimed at tourists. It really depends on the venue. Some places appreciate new songs, but others don't."

G.P.: "There are different markets and types of covers. You can find something for every audience. It's also possible to cover a song and truly make it your own. We often change the style of songs, like turning a dance track into an R&B tune. We cover artists like Ace of Base, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin. Music is emotional, and audiences connect instantly with songs they already know."

What defines the Genuine sound?

E.P.: "We create a vintage mix. Our music takes you on a journey through the southern U.S., with the warm feel of Memphis sound (think Stax Records classics), New Orleans funk, and the rich tones of classic Chicago R&B, bringing to mind Motown's golden age."

G.P.: "Along that musical journey, we also touch on blues rock, creating a unique and soulful blend."

Who is your music for?

G.P.: "It's for people who want to rediscover classic songs and find new music. For anyone who loves soul, R&B, and rock."

E.P.: "For people who enjoy live music. We are authentic."

Does music need special effects or 'artifice' to connect with an audience?

G.P.: "There isn't just one type of audience. There's music, and there's entertainment, and a market for each. I don't think you need tricks to reach people, but you do need a distinct musical identity to connect. People connect with the emotions in music. Artists like Janis Joplin and Amy Winehouse connect with audiences because of their unique voices."

E.P.: "Everything has been done before. James Brown put on amazing shows. Nowadays, screens are often added to boost the visual experience."

What can the audience expect at your concert this Friday at Equipo PARA?

G.P.: "A night full of energy and emotion, featuring both classic covers and our own original songs. We'll even be playing a new track called 'Cold Lips'."

E.P.: "They can expect something fresh and exciting."