‘Hurts Me’, a new track by Keegan Fernandes (Yungk4teen) and Bevan Rodrigues (Bevvibez) feat Tsumyoki, draws from a real life experience of heartbreak
RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT BUZZ
Musicians Keegan Fernandes aka Yungk4teen and Bevan Rodrigues aka Bevvibez are back with their second collaboration, ‘Hurts Me’, featuring artist Tsumyoki (Nathan Joseph Mendes). The track delves into the emotional pain of unrequited love, with each artist lending their touch to create a song that’s both raw and relatable.
“Keegan was in a situation where his feelings weren’t reciprocated, leading to heartbreak. That’s what ‘Hurts Me’ is based on,” explains Bevan.
Keegan adds that the track started out as a spontaneous creation. He sent a hook he created over a beat to Bevan and his cousin Dawson. Bevan added the beat, and Dawson contributed the bassline.
“The original version was more experimental, but we refined it over time,” says Keegan, adding that he was working on his EP and writing several songs, trying to find the right fit. “‘Hurts Me’ ended up being the one that truly clicked.”
However, ‘Hurts Me’ took an unexpected turn when Tsumyoki heard it during a studio visit. “He loved it so much that he offered to be featured for free, and that’s how the three of us ended up working together. That was one of the best moments we’ve ever had in the studio,” says Bevan, while Keegan adds that having Tsumyoki join the track was a surprise. “When he heard the song, he loved it. He suggested a remix, but we decided to release it as a full song instead. It was an amazing experience, and I left the studio feeling so happy.”
He further explains that when he makes music, he just goes with the flow, making changes as needed to create the best version of the song. “For ‘Hurts Me,’ I let the process unfold naturally,” he says.
The making of the track wasn’t without challenges. Bevan (producer) recalls reworking the beat multiple times before it clicked. He says, “Tsumyoki didn’t really like the scratch production, so we reworked it. It took me six months to completely change it.”
Keegan says that the entire journey was the most exciting—shooting the cover art, preparing for the music video, and working in the studio. “Making music is something I’m passionate about, and every step of the process inspires me.”
While the track is already out, the video will be released soon. And both artists hope that listeners, especially those who have experienced unrequited love, will connect with ‘Hurts Me’. “If listeners can relate to the story, that would mean a lot to me,” says Keegan.
And having been working together for the past four or five years, the duo state that they both understand each other’s expectations in terms of production. “It’s always fun working with Keegan. It doesn’t feel like a chore with him,” says Bevan.
The evolving music scene in Goa has also inspired both of them. “Being surrounded by other musicians here has influenced my approach to writing and creativity,” says Keegan.
However, they acknowledge the challenges of getting music heard, with limited opportunities for Goan artists and high production costs. Bevan says, “The music scene in Goa is definitely on the rise, and that motivates us to improve and introduce music that hasn’t been brought to Goa’s audience before. We’re trying to create a legacy, something unique. The competition is fierce and increasing.”
He adds that opportunities are limited, Goan artists aren’t always taken seriously, and there’s not much appreciation for new and different things these days. “As independent artists, equipment is expensive, studio time is expensive, and there’s a lot of money, time, energy, and sacrifice that goes into a single song.”
Keegan adds that one of the major challenges for musicians in Goa is performing live and showcasing their talent.
However, Bevan advises young artists to collaborate, hone their craft, and step out of their comfort zone. “If you’re a singer or a producer, reach out to a local producer or singer who’s been in the game for a while. Every singer needs a producer. Just create and express yourself however you want. Keep creating. I was a ‘bedroom producer’ until I connected with Keegan and other local artists, and that’s when I started growing and stepping out of my shell. You learn a lot when you work in a team,” he says. Keegan adds, “Hard work never goes to waste. Put your time and effort into your craft, and the results will follow.”
The duo is currently working on an EP together, with plans for an album in the future. Keegan is also focused on solo projects.
