Image credit: Sandra Vijandi
A beacon of light in some of the darkest of days, singer Ramzi shares messages of love with his latest song ‘Amazing’ via RDS Music. With an affinity for tugging at the heartstrings, this track will hook you from the beginning with Ramzi’s honeyed vocals and sincere tone. In 2018, the singer-songwriter had a life-saving heart procedure, and since then he has continued spreading messages of hope and joy to his listeners. Over the years, Ramzi has written for and collaborated with the likes of ‘90s heartthrobs The Backstreet Boys, prolific electronic band Rudimental as well as Nigerian afrobeat star Tiwa Savage to name a few. We asked Ramzi a few questions about his production process below.
Please describe your sound for us.
Pop soul and ballads with R&B, afrobeat, and Middle Eastern flavours.
How did it all start for you?
I guess it started when my parents couldn’t stop me from singing and dancing as a little kid, after watching musicals and Michael Jackson Lol. On a serious note it started when at the age of eight. My mother, a classical pianist, got me a guitar teacher. Most of the kids I hung out with would be outside playing but I was instantly stuck like glue to my guitar, singing. At 10 I started writing songs and picking up other instruments. I think it was clear to everyone around me at home and at school that I was in this for the long haul!
Which three artists would you say made you want to create your own music?
Tough question because I’ve been influenced by so many, but growing up you could say: Prince, Brian Mcknight, and Eric Clapton.
What is your go-to gear/equipment when creating?
If it’s a ballad, it’s the piano or acoustic guitar. If it’s uptempo, it’s Logic Pro! I’ve got a studio with a lot of fancy gear, or as I like to call them…my toys! Sites and Plugins like Splice and Arcade are great tools for finding quick loops and samples that inspire me to write and produce.
What are some of your key influences in your music? Whether it be the sound created by others, imagery, films or any kind of art form.
I think the two biggest influences are music by other artists (I get so inspired to create when I listen to a great song or album!) and life’s experiences. I reflect on a lot on things that have happened to me, and others around me or even strangers. This affects my mood which affects my music.
What is one sub-genre you think doesn’t get the attention it deserves?
Probably many of the classical sub-genres and classical music itself. I trained for a few years in classical piano and my mother is a classical musician, so I know how beautiful it is and the skill required to be a classical musician. It’s also had a big influence on pop music over time and things like music in films, TV & theatre.
Any new or upcoming artists on your radar?
I’m really enjoying an R&B artist called Janine at the moment.
What can we expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects in the pipeline that you would like to tell us about?
A number of Live UK and International dates (hopefully a tour), a few collaborations with some great artists (I can’t give away too much haha). And lots of online content and new music!
Famous last words?
If you like a bit of diversity and music from the soul, then follow my journey (@ramziofficial) on all socials x!
‘Amazing’ features on the Spotify playlist POP_GROUND.fm
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