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15 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Thinning Hair on August 2, 2023 at 7:39 pm Us Weekly
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Anyone who has experienced thinning hair knows how frustrating it can be. If you’ve noticed that you’ve been losing more hair than usual, one of the first steps you can take is to swap out your shampoo and conditioner for high-performance, targeted products made with proven ingredients. We’ve reviewed some of the most talked about products on the market, and have created the ultimate guide to the best shampoos and conditioners for thinning hair.
What Causes Thinning Hair?
Unfortunately, there’s no single answer to this question. Hair thinning is multifactorial, and any thinning that you’re experiencing may be caused by factors like stress, diet, illnesses, hormonal fluctuations, or something else entirely.
While pinpointing the exact root cause of your thinning hair may be a tricky task, there is one thing we are certain of, using well-developed formulas can help restore hair health so that you are better equipped to get hair thinning under control. They’ll nourish the follicles to encourage the growth of healthy, strong hair, and will also fortify current strands to minimize the risk of thinning, split ends and breakage.
The Best Ingredients for Thinning Hair
There are a few different types of ingredients that you’ll want to look out for when picking the right hair care products for your thinning hair. First, you’ll want to seek out strengthening and nourishing ingredients that fortify the strands and follicles. These types of ingredients ensure the strands are less prone to breakage, split ends and hair fall, and also support the follicles so that they are better able to grow new healthy hairs. Some top ingredients to keep an eye out for include biotin, keratin, amino acids, plant proteins, nutrient-dense oils (such as jojoba, avocado and argan oils) and zinc.
You may also want to look for ingredients that stimulate the follicles to promote new growth. Caffeine, rosemary and peppermint oil are all great options.
Ingredients that block dihydrotestosterone (also known as DHT) are also particularly ideal. While not responsible for all forms of thinning hair, this hormone is commonly a cause for hair loss. Two particularly great ingredients for defending against the effects of DHT include saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil.
Last but not least, we also suggest looking for formulas that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants defend the hair against harmful free radicals from aggressors like pollution and UV rays. These free radicals can damage the strands and scalp and contribute to thinning. Ginseng, vitamin E, aloe and green tea extract are all excellent antioxidant-powered options.
The Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Thinning Hair
If you’re ready to finally put an end to excess hair shedding, here are our recommendations for the best shampoos and conditioners for thinning hair.
1. Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Blu Atlas
The shampoo and conditioner from premium grooming company Blu Atlas are packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that revive the follicles and strands to stop thinning in its tracks and promote strong, resilient hair. We are also impressed by the top-quality, clean formulas, which are vegan, cruelty-free and formulated without sulfates, parabens, phthalates or synthetic fragrances.
The star of the Blu Atlas Shampoo is vegan biotin, which fortifies the strands and defends them against harmful aggressors so that they are less prone to breakage, split ends and fallout. The biotin also replenishes hydration levels, ensuring the hair is left feeling soft and smooth. It works alongside saw palmetto, which is one of the most effective ingredients for blocking the hair loss effects of DHT. Antioxidant and vitamin-rich aloe barbadensis leaf juice also nourishes and moisturizes, while jojoba protein heals damaged strands. Gentle, coconut-derived surfactants also thoroughly cleanse without aggravating the scalp and follicles or stripping away natural moisture.
The accompanying conditioner is made with some of our favorite nutrient-rich oils for strengthening, moisturizing and smoothing the hair, including avocado and argan oils. It also contains barley protein to promote the growth of resilient hair and strengthen existing strands. White tea extract supports scalp health (which is key for healthy hair growth) by providing antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Virtue Flourish Shampoo and Conditioner for Thinning Hair
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These hair care products from Virtue are formulated with some of the best ingredients for promoting growth and fortifying the strands. They also reduce flakiness and calm irritation in the scalp for optimal hair health – which is crucial for creating a hospitable environment for new hair growth. The brand gets bonus points for these clean formulas, which are vegan, cruelty-free and made without sulfates, parabens or phthalates.
The Virtue Flourish Shampoo is formulated with gentle surfactants that clean the hair shafts and clear away debris around the follicles to allow for healthy growth. Alpha and gamma keratin proteins reinforce hair strength and boost elasticity and flexibility to reduce thinning and breakage. These proteins work alongside biomimetic signal peptides that nourish and soothe the scalp, as well as rice-based humectants, which lightly hydrate the hair while smoothing down the shaft. Sodium hyaluronate and red algae extract also work in tandem to create a moisture barrier around the strands to boost thickness.
The accompanying Virtue Flourish Conditioner is also made with biomimetic signal peptides and alpha and gamma keratin proteins to ensure the strands and scalp are getting the maximum support from these powerful ingredients. It is also made with a probiotic ferment that reduces irritation and supports oxygen consumption of the cells to boost growth, as well as cyperus plant rool oil, which enhances the hair’s softness and shine.
3. Briogeo Destined For Density Peptide Shampoo and Conditioner for Thicker, Fuller Hair
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With a name like Destined for Density, you know these products will help you achieve your fullest hair yet. Both of these formulas are designed to stimulate circulation at the scalp to encourage growth while strengthening and thickening strands for denser, more voluminous hair. They’re vegan and cruelty-free, and made without sulfates, parabens or phthalates.
The Briogeo Destined For Density Peptide Shampoo is crafted with an energy complex, which features CoQ10, caffeine and green coffee oil. These ingredients stimulate and nourish the follicles, encouraging the growth of healthy and strong hair to counteract thinning. They’re joined by copper peptides that further reduce thinning by promoting a healthy hair life cycle, as well as biotin, which fortifies the strands and boosts elasticity while supporting overall follicle health. Antimicrobial zinc chloride cleanses and enhances scalp health, while vitamin E provides antioxidant protection to defend the hair against damaging free radicals.
The Briogeo Destined For Density Peptide Conditioner is also made with these powerful ingredients to encourage thicker, denser hair. It also contains lightweight conditioners that moisturize and detangle the hair without weighing it down. The result is touchably soft, easy to manage hair that looks fuller and more voluminous.
4. Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Shampoo and Conditioner
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Vegamour has quickly become a leader in the world of hair growth products, so it was no surprise that the company’s shampoo and conditioner are seriously impressive. These clean, vegan and cruelty-free formulas are infused with clinically proven active ingredients that support growth and nourish the strands while promoting shinier, fuller hair. The company even promises visible results in as little as three months.
The sulfate-free Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Shampoo is powered by red clover and mung bean, which have been shown to defend the hair against some of the key causes of hair loss. The citrus-scented formula also contains the company’s proprietary vegan keratin, which creates a silk-like barrier around the strands to smooth and enhance shine, as well as biotin to strengthen the strands and follicles.
Additionally, marula oil, baobab oil and murumuru butter work in tandem to hydrate and nourish the strands while protecting them against damage from free radicals. In order to clear away pore-blocking residue that may hinder hair growth, the formula uses mild surfactants that gently cleanse without stripping away natural moisture.
The GRO Revitalizing Conditioner is also powered by the same active ingredients to stimulate the follicles and boost strand resilience. It has an ultra-rich texture that penetrates deep into the strands, leaving the hair feeling silky and soft after washing.
5. Avalon Organics Biotin B-Complex Thickening Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner
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If you’re looking for budget-friendly hair care products that will help you reverse thinning hair, we recommend checking out the Biotin B-Complex Thickening Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner from Avalon Organics. These formulas are crafted with some of the most effective ingredients for strengthening and thickening existing strands, and nourishing the follicles to encourage new growth and minimize hair loss. They’re also vegan and cruelty-free, and made without sulfates, phthalates or synthetic fragrances.
Both of these formulas are made with biotin to strengthen the strands and follicles to prevent breakage and thinning. Biotin also helps improve hydration levels in the hair. It works alongside saw palmetto extract, which calms the scalp and blocks the hair loss causing effects of DHT to create a healthy environment for new growth.
Additionally, both formulas contain quinoa protein to promote fullness and stronger hair. A blend of nutrient-dense jojoba, argan and sunflower seed oils nourishes the hair and follicles while adding weightless moisture. Vitamin E provides antioxidant benefits, while aloe further soothes scalp irritation while adding additional moisture to the strands and scalp.
The sulfate-free shampoo is made with mild surfactants that effectively cleanse without causing irritation or dryness. Meanwhile, the conditioner is made with additional ingredients that soften and smooth for beautiful, easily managed hair.
6. Viviscal Thickening Shampoo and Strengthening Conditioner
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This duo of hair care products from Viviscal work together to promote denser, thicker hair while stimulating the follicles to encourage growth. These budget-friendly formulas are packed with high-performance ingredients, and are made without harsh sulfates or parabens.
Both the Thickening Shampoo and Strengthening Conditioner are made with marine-derived collagen, which strengthens the hair roots to minimize hair loss. It also penetrates deep into the hair shafts to fortify and minimize breakage and split ends. It’s joined by biotin and keratin, both of which further nourish and reinforce the strands and follicles for maximum strength and resilience. Additionally, seaweed nourishes the strands and scalp with hair-loving nutrients.
The shampoo is made with gentle surfactants that effectively cleanses away buildup. The conditioner has a lightweight texture, and is able to effectively smooth and add moisture to the strands without weighing the hair down.
What we also love about these products is the scent. Both the shampoo and conditioner are made with the company’s signature fragrance, a fresh, flower-forward scent with notes of greens and ocean breeze.
7. Bumble and Bumble Full Potential Hair Preserving Shampoo and Conditioner
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Bumble and Bumble has long been considered one of the top hair care brands on the market, and these expertly made products do not disappoint. These products invigorate the follicles and reduce breakage for denser, healthier hair that is less prone to fallout. They are also cruelty-free, and made without parabens or phthalates.
The exfoliating Full Potential Hair Preserving Shampoo is made with the company’s Hair Preserve Blend to keep the strands and follicles strong and healthy. It removes buildup that can clog the pores, helping to create an ideal environment for growth. It contains caffeine and rosemary extract, both of which are known to stimulate the follicles to encourage the growth of new hair. It also contains soothing centella asiatica extract, as well as panthenol, which plumps the strands with moisture to boost softness and thickness.
The Full Potential Hair Preserving Conditioner is also made with rosemary, caffeine and centella asiatica extract to support follicle health. It also contains vitamin E, which provides antioxidant benefits to effectively defend the hair against harmful free radicals. Hydrolyzed wheat protein also moisturizes and smooths, promoting soft and silky strands.
8. BondiBoost HG Shampoo and Conditioner for Thinning Hair
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These formulas from Australia-based BondiBoost are specifically made to tackle the needs of those with thinning and aging hair. Powerful active ingredients nourish the follicles and encourage growth while defending the hair against aggressors that can cause damage. Both formulas are vegan and cruelty-free, and formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates or synthetic fragrances.
Both the shampoo and conditioner are made with peppermint and rosemary essential oils. These oils stimulate scalp circulation to boost hair growth. They work alongside horsetail extract, which strengthens and rejuvenates the strands, as well as saw palmetto extract, which combats thinning by blocking the effects of DHT. The formulas also contain additional nourishing and moisturizing ingredients that support both scalp and strand health, including aloe leaf juice, sunflower seed oil, macadamia seed oil and hydrolyzed quinoa.
In addition to these ingredients, the HG Shampoo is made with olive fruit and sea buckthorn oils, both of which further nurture thinning strands while sealing in moisture. It also has a sulfate-free cleansing power that effectively gets rid of buildup that can clog the follicles and inhibit growth. The HG Conditioner is also made with nutrient-dense jojoba seed oil, as well as panthenol, which plumps the strands with moisture for a thicker appearance and softer feel.
9. Pura D’Or Original Gold Label Anti Hair-Thinning Biotin Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Biotin Conditioner
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These products from Pura D’Or have long been regarded as some of the best solutions for those dealing with hair thinning or loss. The clinically tested formulas have been proven to reduce thinning while boosting strength, volume and shine. They’re vegan and cruelty-free, and made without parabens or harsh sulfates.
The Original Gold Label Anti Hair-Thinning Biotin Shampoo features a blend of 17 active ingredients, extracts and nutrients that deeply nourish the hair and follicles. This blend includes biotin to support follicle health and fortify the strands so that they are more resilient against breakage. Anti-inflammatory nettle leaf extract also reduces inflammation and defends against DHT while nurturing the strands and follicles with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for optimal health. Nutrient-dense pumpkin seed oil moisturizes and thickens hair, while black cumin seed oil smooths and adds shine while helping to repair damaged hair.
The Deep Moisturizing Biotin Conditioner is equally as impressive. It also contains pumpkin seed oil, as well as rosemary oil to stimulate the follicles and encourage growth. Argan, sunflower, avocado and olive oils seal moisture into the strands and boost shine and softness while nourishing the hair with nutrients, while vitamin E defends against damaging free radicals.
10. R+CO Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
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R+Co is known for developing high-performance formulas, and the company’s Dallas line is the perfect match for anyone dealing with thinning. These formulas thicken and add volume and bounce to the hair, and at the same time nourish the strands and follicles to minimize shed and encourage growth. Both are vegan and cruelty-free and made without parabens or sulfates.
The Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner are both made with pro-vitamin B5 (AKA panthenol), which boosts moisture levels in the hair and adds shine. Biotin further improves hydration while strengthening the strands and nourishing the follicles.
The formulas also contain saw palmetto extract, which encourages growth by inhibiting the effect of DHT on the follicles. Coconut oil also helps soften the strands and reduce breakage and split ends, while vitamin and mineral-rich loquat fruit extract nourishes the hair.
Beyond the excellent ingredients, we can’t get enough of the scent of these products. They feature an inviting, citrusy fragrance, with notes of tangerine, pineapple, lavender, cardamom, bamboo and woods.
11. Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner
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Let’s go over another top-quality budget-friendly recommendation: the Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner from Mielle. These nutrient-dense formulas strengthen the strands and support the follicles to promote long, full and healthy hair. They are also both cruelty-free and made without parabens or sulfates.
As it says in the name, both of these formulas are powered by rosemary and peppermint essential oils, which stimulate circulation at the scalp. This in turn delivers nutrients to the follicles, helping to promote the growth of strong, healthy hair. The rosemary also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, and works to ensure the scalp is as healthy as possible and best able to support new growth. Both formulas also feature biotin to fortify the strands and follicles, as well as coconut oil to nourish and moisturize.
In addition to these ingredients, the Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo also contains moisturizing and nurturing honey and babassu seed oil. It also features horsetail grass extract to rejuvenate the strands. The accompanying conditioner is made with avocado oil and shea butter, both of which deeply moisturize and soften the hair while nourishing the scalp and strands with much-needed nutrients.
12. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo and Conditioner
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Paul Mitchell’s tea tree oil-infused formulas have always been a hit. For those with thinning hair, we particularly recommend the company’s Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo and Conditioner. These products partner powerful tea tree oil with other ingredients that dramatically improve scalp health while nourishing the follicles and strands to minimize loss and maximize strength.
These formulas are powered by an exclusive botanical blend of five active ingredients that work together to slow down thinning. It includes pea peptides, which stimulate follicles to encourage growth and prevent loss while smoothing and thickening the strands. Clover flower extract further defends against hair loss, while antioxidant-rich kakadu plum, turmeric and ginseng protect against damaging free radicals while supporting follicle health and boosting circulation.
The shampoo and conditioner also contain rosemary leaf extract to maximize hair growth potential. Of course, as it says in the name, they are also powered by tea tree leaf oil, an antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that promotes scalp health and creates an ideal environment for hair growth.
Both of these products also have an incredibly uplifting and refreshing scent, with notes of basil, lemon, fir, vanilla, patchouli and amber. They’re also made without sulfates or parabens.
13. Superzero Thinning/Aging Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
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If you’ve ever been curious about trying shampoo and conditioner bars, we have the perfect recommendation for you. Superzero is leading the hair care bars industry, and has developed highly-effective formulas that are specifically made to address thinning and aging hair. These bars are vegan and cruelty-free, and made without sulfates.
The Superzero bars are both crafted with rosemary oil, caffeine and peppermint oil, which all work in tandem to promote circulation and bring nutrients to the follicles to encourage growth. They also contain panthenol and shea butter, which seal moisture into the hair and plump for thicker strands.
The Thinning/Aging Hair Shampoo Bar is also made with biomimetic peptides that enhance hair color and protect the strands against UV exposure. Avocado oil also nourishes while deeply moisturizing the strands, leaving them soft and silky.
In order to maximize its conditioning power, the Thinning/Aging Hair Conditioner Bar contains moisturizing cocoa seed butter. It is also infused with hemisqualane to increase moisture levels and smooth down frizz.
14. Amika 3D Volume and Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
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These products from Amika plump and nourish the hair from root to tip, helping to promote serious volume and optimal hair health. These clean, vegan and cruelty-free formulas (which are free of sulfates, parabens or phthalates) also weightlessly moisturize the strands while boosting shine and manageability.
Both the shampoo and conditioner are infused with a hair growth complex that is powered by larch wood and green tea extracts. It’s designed to stimulate growth for denser hair. The formulas also contain sea buckthorn oil, which is a rich source of fatty acids. The oil hydrates the hair and scalp while enhancing elasticity for strands that are less prone to breakage.
Additionally, these formulas contain hydrolyzed rice and vegetable proteins. The proteins lightly moisturize while boosting thickness and shine. Saw palmetto and nettle leaf extracts also minimize inflammation in the scalp while protecting against hair loss, while nutrient-dense avocado oil nourishes and moisturizes. Green tea leaf extract adds an extra antioxidant punch, ensuring the hair is protected against the harmful effects of free radicals.
15. Biolage Advanced Full Density Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
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Biolage’s Full Density Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner are both made to build the hair’s resiliency while boosting volume, helping you achieve thicker, stronger hair that is less prone to thinning in the long-run. When used together, the products have been shown to boost fullness and promote healthier-feeling strands after just one use.
These vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free formulas are infused with biotin to strengthen and increase hair density, minimizing the risk of breakage, split ends and fallout. They are also powered by zinc PCA, an antibacterial ingredient that rebalances sebum production and purifies the scalp. This leads to hair that feels fresher, and also creates a better environment for healthy hair growth. The zinc PCA also blocks the effects of DHT on the follicles, reducing the risk of hair loss.
In addition to these ingredients, the Full Density Thickening Conditioner is infused with additional moisturizers that boost the hair’s hydration levels. The result is hair that is not only thicker and more voluminous, but softer, silkier and shinier.
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Branded content. Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services. Anyone who has experienced thinning hair knows how frustrating it can be. If you’ve noticed that you’ve been losing more hair than usual, one of the first steps you can take is to swap out your
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Author: Bolanle Media Staff
Jeremy Sumrall’s latest project, “Another Night at Beaver’s,” has been making waves in the film festival circuit. The screenplay was recently selected as an award finalist for the Houston Comedy Film Festival, marking another milestone in Sumrall’s career. This recognition comes on the heels of its selection by the Fall HorrorHound Film Festival, showcasing the script’s appeal across multiple genres
Inspiration and Storytelling
“Another Night at Beaver’s” is set in a strip club on the edge of hell and draws from classics like “Assault on Precinct 13” and “Tales From The Crypt’s Demon Knight.” The film, set on Christmas Eve, features a band of off-beat characters—strippers and lowlifes—who must fight off satanic snot monsters to prevent the apocalypse. The idea of setting such a wild story in a strip club, a world Sumrall knows well, adds an extra layer of authenticity and fun to the screenplay.
Challenges in Screenwriting
Writing “Another Night at Beaver’s” came naturally to Sumrall, who had the story in his head since 2009. However, it wasn’t until the passing of Wes Craven in 2015 that he felt compelled to finally put pen to paper. Despite initial doubts about his future in filmmaking, Sumrall completed the first draft in just a month. The journey to perfecting the script was long and involved setting aside his perfectionist tendencies, allowing him to fully embrace the chaotic, balls-to-the-wall nature of the story.
Screenwriting Journey
Sumrall began screenwriting in the early 2000s, taking classes at Rice University’s Continued Studies program. His passion for storytelling, coupled with a quarter-life crisis, drove him to immerse himself in screenwriting. His involvement in all aspects of filmmaking began in 2007 when he was cast in the slasher film “SWEATSHOP.” Since then, Sumrall has written several feature-length scripts and has developed a disciplined routine, writing almost daily.
Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
As a writer and director, Sumrall has two feature films under his belt, with a third in pre-production. His completed screenplays include “Vixen With A Vendetta,” a revenge flick set in the world of opera, and “Residue,” a psychological supernatural thriller about a homicide detective with psychic abilities. He is also scripting two short films and has a plethora of ideas waiting on the backburner. Additionally, Sumrall directs music videos, with a trilogy for the darkwave band The Russian White set to coincide with their newest album release in August.
Getting in Touch
For future projects or collaborations, Jeremy Sumrall can be found on Facebook at Jeremy Sumrall – Flickmaker and on Instagram as @nothinginterestingonline. His website, www.jeremysumrallflickmaker.com, provides further insights into his work and upcoming projects.
Community and Support
Sumrall emphasizes the importance of community in the screenwriting process. Though not a member of any formal screenwriting organizations, he regularly consults with a close-knit group of writer friends for feedback and encouragement. This support system is crucial for maintaining motivation and staying grounded.
Current Status and Production Plans
Sumrall is determined to bring “Another Night at Beaver’s” to life as either his third or fourth directorial feature. While another script he optioned in 2020 is currently in development, Sumrall remains open to directing “Another Night at Beaver’s” if the opportunity arises sooner. He is actively seeking producers and investors to help bring this wild and unique story to the big screen.For a visual glimpse into Sumrall’s creative process, he has shared headshots and photos from his time on set, adding a personal touch to this exciting project.
From the Film Festival Circuit Founder, Mikal Fair:
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Author: Bolanle Media Staff
Press Release
Daniel Couts: A Brief Overview
Daniel Couts is a dynamic artist whose talents bridge the worlds of music, film, and beyond. Growing up in a musical family within London’s entertainment scene, Couts honed his skills in music, drama, and film and TV studies, quickly diving into directing, acting, and music after college. His recent work includes serving as Executive Producer on the newly released film Hounds of War, featuring Frank Grillo, Robert Patrick, and Rhona Mitra, and dropping his debut EP, Mellow Metal. With a slate of new projects on the horizon, Couts continues to push boundaries, keeping his career diverse and ever-evolving.
We had the privilege of sitting down with Daniel Couts to discuss his latest project, the debut EP ‘Mellow Metal’. In an intimate conversation, Daniel opened up about his creative process, the inspiration behind his music, and his vision for the future of film and music. With his passion and dedication shining through, Daniel shared his unique perspective on the intersection of art and innovation.
Your transition from acclaimed filmmaker to musical artist with “Mellow Metal” is fascinating. How does this genre-defying work reflect your philosophy of breaking boundaries in art?
Personally, I don’t think there should be any boundaries in art. Growing up in a musical family and attending a music school in Athens, Greece, music has always been the root of everything I’ve gone on to do in my life. Since 2019, I’ve been working hard and focusing on my company’s film production work that, sad to say, my music involvement become somewhat stagnant.
So, here we are in 2024, and I’ve decided not to shy away from any ounce of talent I might have. If I enjoy it, I need to do it. Plus, I’m the kind of person who always needs to create—It’s kind of a coping mechanism.
“Mellow Metal” has been described as a “cinematic journey for the ears.” Can you walk us through how you’ve translated your visual storytelling skills into this auditory experience?
That’s an excellent question. I’m not so sure who’s describing the EP as a cinematic journey for the ears, but it’s incredibly creative, and I’m definitely taking it as a compliment! So, thank you. I’d say my two biggest passions in the creative sector are visual storytelling (i.e. directing) and creating music, and I think I’ve developed a similar approach to both: there’s always something deeper than initially meets the eye… or ears.
I love movies that are deep and emotionally evocative, and musically, especially with Mellow Metal, I wanted to create something that blends various styles that I love and something that helps promote positivity, peace, and love. Not just a nice beat and melody, but something emotionally deeper.
You’ve worked with some of Hollywood’s elite. How have these collaborations influenced the creation of “Mellow Metal,” and are there any surprising industry figures who’ve contributed to this project?
I’d love to be able to say that I “produced this EP with so and so,” but unfortunately that’s not the case. I’ve had the privilege of working with and meeting some amazing people in the music and film industry in Greece, the US, and the UK. Every collaboration teaches me so much—both good and bad—and it’s enough to probably write an entire book about it. But regarding the creation of Mellow Metal, there are two people who played a huge role, one of them directly, and one of them indirectly.
The first person is my wife Nika Finch, who is a notable figure in the film and music sector. She actually introduced me to the world of metal music, and although I never thought it would happen, I fell in love with it. She introduced me to incredible bands like Nightwish and HIM; which leads to the second person who played a huge part in the creation of Mellow Metal without knowing it; Ville Valo— former singer from HIM and currently known as VV. After watching him perform live at London’s Royal Albert Hall, I felt so full of inspiration that I went home and just started writing. As a tribute to his great music, I even included my own version of his song Neon Noir on the EP.
Your Greek heritage is a significant part of your identity. How have you woven traditional Greek musical elements into the contemporary sound of “Mellow Metal”?
The answer to this is pretty simple, and one I may be disowned for, but… I didn’t. Not really. My father is a major songwriter and music producer in Greece and I grew up listening to Greek music non-stop and meeting the biggest Greek stars. This was awesome, but my biggest inspirations for Mellow Metal came from pre-existing styles of metal, mainly HIM’s own Love Metal. But, who knows, I may one day incorporate some Greek elements into future songs. In my book, there’s no right or wrong when it comes to art, especially music.
As the CEO of Opulence Pictures, you’re known for producing films that address social issues. How does “Mellow Metal” continue this mission in the realm of music?
Mellow Metal doesn’t directly touch on social issues, but I do aim to use this genre to promote peace and love, hence my MM logo on the cover that includes a dove with guitar necks for wings. That’s the symbol I use, as I think it captures the essence of my music pretty well.
You’ve mentioned synesthesia influencing your creative process. Can you explain how this neurological trait has shaped the soundscape of “Mellow Metal”?
Synesthesia is fascinating, and I actually experience it more when I produce music than I do when involved in film projects. Obviously, there are certain sounds I like when making music, but I tend to visualize the process. Especially with Mellow Metal, as it’s a genre I’ve never experimented with before, I approached each song by determining, not only what sounded right, but what felt right too, in terms of colors or textures. As crazy as it might sound, I would also describe Mellow Metal as a dark, soft velvet-like EP with subtle higher temperatures.
Growing up in a musical family in London must have been quite an experience. Can you share a cherished childhood memory that ignited your passion for both music and film?
There are so many. Growing up, the biggest driving force with regard to music was my parents. My father had a hard time growing up to pursue music as his parents didn’t want him to do so, and so he wanted to make up for that with me. He encouraged me to learn as much as I could and allow my talents to flourish, as did my mother. One of my fondest memories is when my parents surprised me with a drum kit and I spent all my free time playing it. Spoilt, I know, but I’m privileged to have such supporting parents.
Regarding video and film production, I came across that medium on my own and I was completely captivated by it. We had an old camcorder lying around and, after my father allowed me to use it, I became obsessed with it. I was filming anything and everything, and then going to my computer, offloading the footage from the Mini-DV tape, and then editing it all. I fell in love with the art of moving image, and continue to have a deep love and passion for it.
Your work often explores the intersection of different cultures. How has your Greek heritage influenced your artistic vision, and what personal experiences have shaped your unique perspective in the entertainment industry?
Aside from singing the occasional Greek song, I’d say that the biggest influence my Greek heritage has on my work is probably how I approach visual storytelling. I’m currently slated to direct two movies and my directorial style can be somewhat varied. I grew up watching tons of Hollywood movies but I did have my fair share of exposure to European movies as a child too, so my directorial style is probably a mix of both. I love the snappiness that American cinema generally has, but I like the depth of stories that many European movies have to offer.
With regard to personal experiences that have shaped my perspective, I can’t really point to any specific experience that I feel has completely set my unique perspective. We’re all unique, and our lives and experiences have shaped us all, and that’s what I love about music and cinema. Whether I’m listening to an artist or watching someone’s movie, their personalities and perspectives shine through. When it comes to my content, I create what I love. Some people might like it, some might not, but that’s just part of the game.
As someone who’s achieved success in multiple fields, what advice would you give to aspiring creatives who want to diversify their artistic portfolio like you have?
I would say the same thing I’ve been told by those who truly care about me: if you have a passion for something, do it. It’s as simple as that. There’s no need to drop one part of yourself to pursue another. I’ve been there, done that. All it does is waste time. Striking a balance between different projects can certainly be difficult, but once you figure it out, you’ll be fine. Also, take a look at other examples of people who have succeeded in multiple fields—they just do what they love and work hard at it. Don’t give up, and most importantly, don’t let opinions stand in the way. Morgan Freeman once said: “Don’t take criticism from people you would never go to for advice.” Remember that.
“Mellow Metal” seems to be just the beginning. Can you give us a teaser of your grand vision for merging film, music, and perhaps other media in future projects?
Mellow Metal is most certainly just the beginning for me. For starters, I’m already working on new music in the mellow metal genre, which I’d love to promote further. As far as movies go, I’m actively involved in several upcoming motion pictures, and as stated earlier, I’ll be directing two movies in the next couple of years. I think it’s inevitable that my journeys in music and film will overlap, and I look forward to projects that will allow me to do that. As for the immediate future, I’m focusing on live performances in addition to my film production work, and I look forward to seeing where that journey takes me.
As Daniel Couts continues to push boundaries in the music and film industries, he and his partner Roselyn Omaka are also dedicated to empowering fellow creatives through their joint venture, Bolanle Media. If you’re a filmmaker looking to elevate your project and reach new audiences, Bolanle Media offers innovative marketing solutions and collaborative opportunities to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re seeking promotional support, distribution guidance, or strategic partnerships, the Bolanle Media team is committed to helping you succeed. Reach out to them today to explore how they can help amplify your film’s impact and reach.
Author: Bolanle Media Staff
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