NEX UP: RAWO

Tamunonye Oluwatise Quakers, also known as Rawo, is a rising artist whose latest EP opens up a window into the complexities of human emotion.  Packed with the raw essence of regret, heartbreak, introspection and the delicate dance of offering love many chances,  “Prelude” showcases  an artist unafraid of vulnerability. He emerges not just as a vocalist but as a storyteller filled with emotions; turning personal experiences into a collective journey for his audience.

In this interview, Nexvillemag sits down with the artist to peel back the layers of his creative process; exploring his heartfelt conversation about love, lessons and the relentless pursuit of understanding.

NV: Could you describe your upbringing and what inspired you to become an artist?

RAWO: I would say I have always been around music.  I have  been musically inclined since I was much younger. I used to go to choir competitions, I played the keyboards in church and school. I think I really had that realization to become an artist and producer when I started  falling in love making my own productions.

NV: How would you describe your genre?

 RAWO: I would describe it as Alternative Electronic African Dance music. They are all different sounds; one is Amapiano, another is Afrobeats and lastly one is very up-tempo and pop-like. I think Alternative Electronic African Dance music encapsulates everything that I am trying to do. 

NV: Are there musicians or genres that have significantly influenced your musical evolution?

RAWO: I work with synthesis like electronic sounds. I think when I heard the bass for the song, “Father Stretch my hands” in 2016, that inspired my love for electronic music. I also love disco, especially the 80’s vibes with artists such as Prince. He had such interesting ideas. Whitney Houston has also been really influential. Tame Impala is also a big influence. I get inspiration from literally everywhere. I remember watching youtube and coming across Obesere where he made fuji music with drums. I really love electronic music as there are ways to use them where it does not sound like anything else. 

NV: How do you approach the creative challenges in crafting your music?

RAWO: Sometimes, it is best to let the block happen. It can go away. There will always be something that spurs me but also there's a discipline aspect to it. This is where I have tried something one way and later thinking of other ways to approach it. Sometimes inspiration comes to you and then there are times you have to find it. I would say having my friends listen gives me another perspective in approaching challenges. 

NV: Are there specific emotions or personal experiences that inspired any of the tracks in the EP ?

RAWO: Ice Melts is about being very delusional. I want something and what I want becomes a struggle to get from the person I want it from. This is me realizing that it’s not going to work. I am taking that step back to think about me. It's basically a 'me' anthem. 

NV: How do you hope your audience feels when they listen to your music?

RAWO: I want them to feel what I feel. The music is very personal. Prelude is a coming of age story. It's built on a feeling that in spite of everything I am coming out as an artist and here I am. I am not alone in some certain experiences . I feel like I have been able to communicate that feeling which people can reciprocate and connect to if they have experienced that.

NV: The cover art is very unique in color and symbolism. Can you share the inspiration that led to its creation?

RAWO: I program things when making music. It can be a very nerdy process. The instrument can seem intimidating but it really isn’t . When people get exposed to certain things, they act as if the exposure makes you seem less Nigerian.  I am here to show that I can like things and still embrace my roots. That's why you see the coat of arms present. From the beginning, I knew I wanted blue and the shade was perfect. It's an intention in the process. Special shout out to Whak and Mo, they helped me execute the idea. 

NV: Exploring genres can be a part of an artist's evolution. Have you experimented with different styles, and how has that experimentation influenced your musical identity?

RAWO: Rap is a genre I ventured into at one point in my life . Alternative was also a style I really experimented with before refining it. I had that introspection of what sound really expresses myself the best. This was a whole process of learning myself and what I want to say. 

NV: Balancing authenticity with the ever-changing music landscape can be a challenge. How do you navigate this in your career?

RAWO: That's a very interesting question. There are always trends in music but you always have to work at being the latest you, best you. I don’t think outside sounds affect me as much. Being authentic is one thing and if you love your authenticity, you won't be swayed. When you make deviations from what you intend to do, you will know that this doesn't sound like the rawest or most potent. To maintain authenticity, you just have to love yourself and the process so you stay devoted. Even when trends happen, you will love what you are doing more and still implement your own take on that, that's all that matters in the end. 

NV: Social media has become a crucial tool for musicians to connect with fans. How do you navigate the balance between maintaining a personal connection and managing your public image online?

RAWO: I have a wonderful team. Shout out to MANIFOLD. They help a lot. Social media is a visual language which is very important. This is something that people connect to. I interact with people and love how they connect with the project.

NV: What aspirations and goals do you have for your music career, and what can fans expect from you in the coming months?

RAWO: More music for sure. I am trying to be the best in the game. I want to show people like me that it is possible in every inclination you have. Follow it. I want people to know  that you can own the things you like. For the weird kids with very niche interests, everything is possible. 

Stream Rawo’s latest project here