Singer-songwriter RAPHAEL returns with his brand-new single ‘Dreams’; the R&B and pop-infused offering that is exquisitely crafted and effectively displays his vocal prowess and masterful songwriting abilities.
We sat down with RAPHAEL to discuss his music and much more. Here's what he had to say:
Hey RAPHAEL, welcome to FLEX! How are you?
Big shout out to Flex and Thank You for having me. I am great. I'm happy that the new single 'Dreams' is out now and I'm very excited in anticipation as it spreads its wings.
Congratulations on your new single ‘Dreams’ - what inspired this particular track?
The track is about not giving up hope. It started as a self-note to myself at a time when I was in a place with not much to look forward to. We’ve all been there at some point. It’s important to dream and to not give up hope, that in itself creates a mindset for us to take more chances to make spaces for the things we want to happen. Whether it’s a job, a relationship, or a personal issue. Good things do happen and dreams do Come true. Believing it can happen is a step closer to it. It’s also nicer to be in a hopeful place.
And do you have to be in a certain mood to write?
My writing happens when I have to air out and vent. It can be anything that’s happened to me that’s touched me or moved me. I find it healing when I can write about it.
How was the recording and writing process?
For Dreams, the lyrics and the melody came together and then when the song was complete the chord composition was created afterwards. I am self-taught on the piano and I write and compose my song. After that is nailed I will usually go into the studio with my music sheet and production spec sheet and will start work to record it. I have a mate of mine whom I have worked with for years and he plays and sequences and engineers and masters.
For viewers who don’t know RAPHAEL, how would you describe your sound?
I like to describe my sound as Pop / R&B. My sound is song-based and melodically inclined. I like to think my songs have a contemporary feel and yet they also have a timeless feel. I always ensure the song stands its ground acoustically first and foremost. If it does, it’s timeless.
And what are some of those activities that you engage yourself in when you aren't writing or recording in the studio?
I live in London and while I am a full-time professional musician, I also have a day job to pay the bills. Side hustles in big cities are cool. I work in fashion. I also like hitting the gym 3-5 times a week and I love to travel. When the bank balance permits if I’ve managed to save up well (hard with the current cost of living). When I am able, I like to explore exotic locations. Thailand remains my favorite destination.
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