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Mellow Metal Magic: Daniel Couts’ Debut EP Now Available

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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? 

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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? 

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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.

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“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.

 

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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.

 

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Kim Kardashian Achieves Law Goal

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Kim Kardashian has reached a major milestone in her legal journey, graduating from California’s Law Office Study Program after six years of dedicated effort. The reality star and entrepreneur celebrated her achievement on May 21, 2025, with a backyard ceremony surrounded by her children, sisters Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian, close friends, and mentors.

Kardashian’s path to this accomplishment was unconventional. Rather than attending a traditional law school, she enrolled in California’s Law Office Study Program in 2018, which allows aspiring attorneys to apprentice with a licensed lawyer and complete rigorous self-study requirements. The program, typically four years, took Kardashian six years to finish due to the COVID-19 pandemic and her demanding professional commitments..

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During the ceremony, Kardashian expressed her excitement on social media, writing, “I finally graduated law school after six years!!!” Mentors and supporters praised her perseverance, with attorney Jessica Jackson highlighting her 5,184 hours of legal study while balancing motherhood, her business empire, and her advocacy work.. CNN commentator Van Jones, who has worked with Kardashian on criminal justice reform, also honored her dedication at the event.

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Kardashian’s legal journey included passing the First-Year Law Students’ Examination, known as the “baby bar,” on her fourth attempt in 2021, and completing the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) in March 2025—both prerequisites for sitting the California Bar Exam.. Throughout her studies, she continued to champion criminal justice reform, helping to commute sentences for several incarcerated individuals.

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With her law program now complete, Kim Kardashian is preparing for the next step: taking the California Bar Exam. If successful, she will officially become a licensed attorney, following in the footsteps of her late father, Robert Kardashian Sr., and marking a new chapter in her already remarkable career.

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The Weeknd’s Journey Through Darkness, Healing, and Artistic Growth

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In the often glittering world of music and celebrity, few artists have been as open about their struggles with darkness and the quest for healing as The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye). His creative journey, recently illuminated in a candid interview with Sally, explores the realities of toxic relationships, mental health, and the transformative power of vulnerability—both in life and in art.

Diving Into the Darkness

The Weeknd’s music is renowned for its haunting beauty and emotional depth, often drawing from personal pain and heartbreak. “That’s what the music industry is, right? They want your sadness. It’s got to be a really good sad song,” he reflects. For years, Abel found himself repeatedly diving into emotional turmoil, not just as a source of inspiration, but as a requirement of his craft. This cycle, he admits, became unsustainable: “I don’t know if I want to be in that place anymore because it gets to a point where I don’t know if I’m doing it for the right feelings anymore.”

This honesty is a rare glimpse behind the curtain of celebrity, where the expectation to continually mine one’s pain for art can blur the line between authenticity and self-destruction.

Healing and Catharsis

The creation of his latest film, in collaboration with director Trey, marked a turning point. Both artists describe the process as deeply cathartic—a chance to confront their own anxieties, loneliness, and emotional crises. For The Weeknd, watching the first cut of the film was a moment of closure: “Reliving some of the stuff in there and closing that chapter, you know, and eventually it being a goodbye to that moment and that time.”

Trey echoes this sentiment, sharing how the project helped him process his own depression and loss. The partnership became a mutual support system, proving that healing can be found in creative collaboration and honest self-expression.

The Weight of Social Media and Public Pressure

The interview also addresses the toxic influence of social media, which The Weeknd tries to avoid as much as possible. “It feels very manipulated… you don’t know what’s honest,” he says, highlighting the mental toll of constant scrutiny and negativity. Both Abel and Trey emphasize the importance of mental health practices, from accepting failure as a form of growth to being transparent with loved ones about emotional struggles.

Breaking the Cycle and Embracing Growth

A recurring theme in The Weeknd’s work is the portrayal of toxic relationships and emotional pain. When asked about this, he acknowledges the universal pull of sad music and dark stories, but also recognizes the need to move forward: “I wanted to burn this persona, light it on fire, and say goodbye to it… I don’t want to be handcuffed to a persona.”

The symbolic act of “purifying with fire” in his film represents a conscious step towards rebirth and artistic evolution. Abel recounts a similar moment in his career when he cut off his signature hair, defying industry expectations and reclaiming his identity. “I don’t want to be in my 40s and 50s still making work that I can’t detach myself from.”

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Advice for Those Facing Fear and Failure

To those afraid of stepping out of their comfort zones, The Weeknd offers simple but powerful advice: “Failure is okay. Just jump out there, do the best you can… to be great, you have to start somewhere.” He stresses that failure—whether public or private—is an essential part of growth, both as an artist and as a person.

Conclusion: A Story of Transformation

The Weeknd’s journey is a testament to the power of confronting darkness, embracing vulnerability, and seeking healing through art. By sharing his struggles and growth, he not only redefines his own narrative but also inspires others to face their fears, accept their failures, and continue evolving—both creatively and personally.

As he steps into new artistic chapters, one thing is clear: The Weeknd’s story is not just about sadness, but about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to burn away the old in pursuit of something brighter.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Wrongfully Accused? Harvey Weinstein’s Plea for Fairness and Truth

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In a rare and revealing on-camera interview, Harvey Weinstein, once a titan of Hollywood, sits down with Candace Owens to break his silence following the overturning of his New York conviction. Weinstein, who became the central figure in the #MeToo movement, claims he is the victim of a miscarriage of justice, insisting he is “wrongfully accused.” In this candid conversation, Weinstein reflects on his fall from grace, the role of the media, the complexities of his relationships, and his ongoing fight for what he calls “fairness and truth.”

Credit: Heute

Weinstein’s Appeal: “I Am Not Angry, But Angry at the System”

Weinstein opens the interview with a measured tone, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak but making clear his frustration with the legal system. “I’m not angry, but I’m angry at the system,” he says, emphasizing that his conviction was overturned and that he is currently awaiting retrial. He draws a distinction between personal failings and criminal acts, admitting to “terrible mistakes” in his personal life—cheating on his wife, hurting family and friends—but vehemently denying the criminal charges against him.

“I did not commit these crimes. I swear that before God and the people watching now and on my family. I’m wrongfully accused. But justice has to know the difference between what is immoral and what is illegal.”


The Media and the Court of Public Opinion

Weinstein is forthright about his belief that the media played a pivotal role in shaping public perception and prejudicing his case. He thanks Candace Owens and podcasters like Joe Rogan for giving him a platform, contrasting their approach with what he sees as the mainstream media’s rush to judgment.

“The media doesn’t favor me… the mainstream media uses every opportunity to discredit me. But I speak for innocent people—justice has to matter. Evidence has to matter.”

He laments the lack of support from former friends and colleagues, attributing their silence to a fear of being “canceled.” Weinstein describes the atmosphere as a “witch hunt,” where even those who might have supported him were too afraid to speak out.

Gwyneth Paltrow

High-Profile Accusations and Weinstein’s Response

The interview touches on specific allegations, most notably those made by Gwyneth Paltrow. Weinstein acknowledges making a pass at Paltrow but denies any abusive behavior, offering his own account of their professional relationship and the incident in question. He points to years of successful collaboration and public displays of friendship as evidence that the relationship was not as toxic as later described.

“I definitely made a pass, I guess. You could call it that. But that was the sum total of that situation… Now I heard, you know, that she thought the relationship was abusive. Anybody who was there who witnessed that relationship—it just turned into total friends.”


The #MeToo Movement: Conflating Immorality with Criminality

Both Weinstein and Owens express concerns about the #MeToo movement’s tendency to blur the lines between uncomfortable encounters and criminal acts. Owens argues that conflating being “hit on” with rape is irresponsible, and Weinstein agrees, suggesting that he became the scapegoat for a movement seeking a high-profile conviction.

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Credit: Heute

“It’s all conflated and it’s all led to the idea that I am going to be the one they prosecute. I am going to be the one they persecute.”

Weinstein points out that after his conviction was overturned, prosecutors chose to pursue a retrial rather than drop the case, further fueling his sense of being targeted.


Polygraph Tests and Unreported Evidence

Weinstein reveals that he has taken lie detector tests regarding some of the accusations, claiming to have scored highly for honesty. He expresses frustration that such details were not widely reported in the press and that certain exculpatory evidence was excluded from court proceedings.

“I want the world to know that I did that. And I hope the women would just take me up on the challenge and say, ‘Okay, we’ll do it, too.’ But I doubt they will, but I will.”


The Fallout: Isolation and the Changing Media Landscape

Weinstein reflects on the personal cost of the allegations and subsequent conviction. He describes losing nearly everything—his career, reputation, and relationships with many in Hollywood. Only a handful of friends from before his rise to power remained loyal, while others distanced themselves or publicly condemned him.

He also notes the shifting media landscape, observing that independent voices and podcasters now have the power to challenge mainstream narratives and revisit controversial cases like his.

Credit: Wikipedia

Conclusion: A Plea for Fairness and Truth

Harvey Weinstein’s interview is a complex, emotional, and controversial plea for a more nuanced understanding of his case. He admits to moral failings but maintains his innocence regarding the criminal charges. Weinstein calls for a justice system that distinguishes between immorality and illegality, and for a media environment that prioritizes evidence over sensationalism.

Whether or not the public is ready to reconsider Weinstein’s case, his interview is a reminder of the ongoing debates about due process, media influence, and the legacy of the #MeToo movement. As Weinstein awaits retrial, his story continues to provoke questions about justice, accountability, and the power of public opinion.


Disclaimer:
This article summarizes and contextualizes statements made by Harvey Weinstein in a recent interview. The views expressed are those of the interview participants and do not constitute an endorsement or verification of any claims. Weinstein’s legal proceedings are ongoing, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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