Rheo Uno – Don’t Wanna Be In Love

By starrymag | December 22, 2022

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I’d describe my sound as a pop/dance blend, with hints of RnB-ish trills.  So, a complete fusion of my three fav genres.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) I’d say straight away 90s Old Skool Dance, that heavy piano beat is like our Family Anthem. I grew up listening to the Dance Classics as they’re my Dad’s favs.  But then my other playlists were, and still are, full of Usher, Neyo and obviously I am one of the Original Beliebers. I think his trills are just unreal, and I spent so many hours in my bedroom perfecting them. [laughs]

More recent influences are Dua Lipa, Becky Hill and Mimi Webb. Why wouldn’t I take inspiration for women in music who are absolutely killing it?

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Don’t Wanna Be In Love.”

 

A) “DWBIL” came about so organically; its about a friend who was going through a really rough time, and I was giving her my advice.

I was in the studio a couple of days later with Amira Eldine and Charles Drew. I was telling them about the convo I’d had with my friend and, honestly, the song just flowed from there. If you listen to the lyrics, they are literally the exact words taken from our convo.  I love this song because its just so honest and raw.

 

Q) I love the carefree and confidence to the song. What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) This kind of links into what I’ve already said, it’s so relatable; very conversational – I think everyone has either been in a relationship (or knows someone who has) where you know it’s just not right for you.

They’re controlling and self-centered, but it’s hard to accept who they really are and not who you want them to be.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) We wanted the video to be strong, using the colors to show a progression through the track, like a healing process from a bad relationship, so the colors start muted and get more vibrant as she realizes she can do better, and be better on her own.  An empowering vibe, I guess.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) The songwriting process can be different every time for me. Sometimes I come across a quote or hear something in conversation that sparks a whole song. Sometimes I come up with a melody and put some random words to it. This happened once when I was making a cheese sandwich – so I had to voice note it quick! Other times Charlie might come up with a few chords and I’m like, “Oooh! I like that!” We’ll loop it round and make some melodies and then the lyrics just flow from there. But then there are days where we just stare at a blank screen and pray for inspiration.

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) My Producer Charles Drew is an absolute wizard and completely gets where I’m coming from. I’d trust him with my life. He’s got so much industry experience and keeps me on the right track. I rely on him heavily for the production. We’re so in tune creatively that I can give him a vibe that I’m going for and he gives me exactly what I’ve got in my head.

I love sitting in the studio watching him do his thing, honestly fascinating.

 

Q) With such a banger on your hands with “Don’t Wanna Be In Love,” will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) We have got so many songs ready to go, and were back in the studio next week with Amira. So, we deffo have enough material for an EP or even an album, so we’ll see what 2023 brings.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) I’ve performed in some amazing places from five people to thousands but performing my own songs and people vibing to them is just the best feeling. So, I honestly love every performance.

Godiva Festival holds some great memories for me. It’s on my doorstep and it was the first time I’d played BBC Introducing stage. I have had the very best support from my local BBC Introducing. It’s great to be given that platform.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) I mean this is huge, but I’d have to say David Guetta or Calvin Harris. Their collabs are always absolute bangers with artists I aspire to. Bill n Ted are also current faes.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) I am a creature of habit. I listen to playlists that I’ve had for ten years at least and still vibe with them, but I feel like Raye and Mimi Webb are coming with something different, and I like that not a generic sound.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) I think it’s important to keep it real. It’s a great platform to share with so many people that you wouldn’t be able to reach ordinarily. They get to see the aspirational stuff, but I also like to share the fails and the embarrassing stuff that I’d share with my friends because that’s how I see my fans as an extended friendship circle.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) I mean it’s all pointless without them, so a massive thank you to each and every one who takes the time to stream a song, follow my social media and be an active part of my music journey. They have given me the confidence to get out there and do what I’ve always dreamt of doing. It’s the best feeling when people connect with my music. We’re in it together and I love you all.