In the dynamic landscape of London’s music scene, one name stands out like a beacon of electro-pop innovation—Ro Nova. Since her debut single, “do you think it’s fine?”, Ro has been crafting a unique sonic identity, blending 80’s synths with ethereal vocals. Her music has not only received acclaim from notable platforms but has also led to collaborations with industry giants such as Schiller, MNEK, and Grammy Award Winner Kamille. In this exclusive interview, Ro Nova takes us on a journey through her inspirations, experiences, and the making of her latest record, “Echo.”
Ro Nova’s music is often described as a fusion of 80’s synths and ethereal vocals. When asked about the inspiration behind this unique style, Ro expresses her fascination with the aesthetic and sonic trends of the 80s. Drawing influence from pop icons like Lady Gaga and The Spice Girls, Ro masterfully merges classic pop structures with a contemporary dance feel, creating a sound that transcends time.
Ro Nova’s music has not only captivated listeners but also garnered attention from radio stations and tastemakers. Reflecting on the impact of this recognition, Ro shares her appreciation for the full-circle moment when a radio show picks up a release. She recounts a special experience of hearing the S.U.R.E. remix of ‘Summertime Can’t Save Me’ on BBC Radio 1 while in a hotel room in New York City.
Ro Nova’s feature on Schiller’s album ‘Illuminate’ reached No. 1 in Germany, marking a significant milestone in her career. Recounting the experience, Ro describes it as an honor and a dream to play the songs live on the European tour, including iconic venues like the Mercedes Benz Arena in Berlin. The synergy between their musical styles and the warm reception from Schiller’s loyal fanbase left an indelible mark on Ro’s artistic journey.
Ro’s latest release, ‘Echo,’ delivers a powerful message of self-empowerment. Inspired by observing a friend going through a breakup, the track is a celebration of independence and the realization that one only truly needs oneself. The accompanying visual takes viewers on a journey through different eras, reflecting personal growth and self-discovery.
Ro Nova’s musical odyssey is a testament to her artistry, resilience, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of electro-pop. From her 80’s-inspired soundscapes to collaborations with industry legends, Ro Nova continues to carve a niche in the ever-evolving music scene. As she prepares to unveil her debut EP and share more of her cosmic creations, the future looks bright for this trailblazing artist who is leaving an indelible echo on the hearts of her listeners.
Follow up the interview below.
1- Your music is often described as a blend of 80’s synths and ethereal vocals, creating a distinct electro-pop sound. Can you tell us more about the inspirations and influences behind this unique style of music?
Sometimes I wish I could have a time machine for a day (okay, maybe a weekend…) and get a glimpse of living in the 80’s. I’m so inspired by the whole aesthetic and sonic trends from the time and like to blend elements of it in to my music, whilst staying modern. I grew up listening to pop icons like Lady Gaga and The Spice Girls and love merging classic pop structures with a dance feel.
2- You’ve garnered critical acclaim and coverage from various radio stations and tastemakers. How has this recognition impacted your musical journey, and what do you feel sets your music apart in London’s music scene?
It’s always so appreciated when a radio show picks up your release as it feels like the song has gone full circle. I was in a hotel room in New York City when BBC Radio 1 recently played the S.U.R.E. remix of ‘Summertime Can’t Save Me’ and it was a special moment tuning in from overseas!
London’s music scene is so incredibly diverse and I’ve loved being a part of that and seeing it evolve. I’m excited to soon bring a new and pretty unique live set up to LDN’s stages that I’m hoping will show my tracks in a new light. It’s going to be very electronic (and very 80’s).
3- In 2021, you had the opportunity to work with top UK Songwriter Fred Again.. and Grammy Award Winner Kamille, as well as collaborate with artists like MNEK, Raye, and Toddla T. What were some of the most valuable lessons or experiences you gained from these studio sessions?
The absolute legends Fred Again.. and Kamille taught me so much during our year long mentorship and I really can’t put into words how much these sessions shaped me as a producer. One of the most memorable days was a writing camp with Raye and MNEK and seeing how these absolute pop geniuses work was invaluable. The sessions definitely taught me more about collaboration and also the importance of simplicity when it comes to pop writing. Side note : the speed of Fred’s workflow when he’s producing is something else. Absolute inspiration.
4- Your feature on Schiller’s album ‘Illuminate’ reached No. 1 in Germany and led to a significant boost in your fanbase. Can you share your experience working with Schiller and what it was like to join the European tour, including performing at prestigious venues like the Mercedes Benz Arena in Berlin?
It was such an honour to be asked back on a Schiller tour following the club tour I was a part of in 2022. Our musical styles align well together and getting to play the songs live that we’d collaborated on was such a dream. The album reaching No. 1 was also a pinch me moment – the Schiller fanbase is longstanding and loyal and they were so welcoming.
Performing at the Mercedes Benz Arena was definitely one of the highlights of the tour. It’s one of those special venues that has just has something magic in the air. It was incredible to play alongside such talented musicians and to see such a dynamic show come to life.
5- Your latest release, ‘Echo,’ is described as a song that leaves listeners with a message of self-empowerment. Can you elaborate on the themes and inspiration behind this track?
I actually wrote ‘Echo’ when I was living with a close friend and I was around them going through a breakup. We are so in tune with each other that it almost felt like I was experiencing it too so the best way to capture this was to put it into a song. The track is about finding independence and that feeling you get when you realise you only really need yourself. It’s that mindset when you’re dancing alone in your room with the music blaring out loud and nobody’s watching.
6- You mentioned that the accompanying visual for ‘Echo’ takes viewers on a journey through different eras and self-growth. How does the visual aspect of your music contribute to the overall storytelling and experience you aim to create for your audience?
I filmed the first scene of the video two and a half years ago (pre hair bleaching and all). I got busy with touring and other releases and the song got left behind. But, I recently revised it and re-worked the structure and ‘Echo’ was finally ready to have its moment!
When I filmed the other scenes for the video, I realised the fact that I look different reflects the message of the song because it shows that whichever era or self-version you’re in, you will always have yourself to rely on. Each of the four scenes has a completely different look / location linked together with transitions and I had so much fun styling these different vibes. By the end of the video I even behave differently and have come out of my shell more because I’ve grown so much and seen a LOT more of the world since the version of me in the first scene.
7- Could you provide some insights into your creative process, especially when you’re self-producing your music? How do you approach songwriting, production, and the overall arrangement of your songs?
I have the attitude that you shouldn’t force songwriting. Of course, jumping in a session is always fun but I go through phases of being in and out of writing because I love that feeling of when a song comes to you naturally. It means that you’re genuinely going through something that needs writing about. My creative zen is when I’m in my lil studio with the neon lights and sunset lamps on and I can just get lost in experimenting with sounds. That feeling when you’re not even thinking about what time it is because your workflow is just gliding is magical.
8- What can your fans and listeners expect from your upcoming debut EP set for release in 2024? Are there any specific themes or collaborations you can tease or share at this point?
I’m so excited to put out a body of work as up until now I’ve just been releasing a single at a time. The EP explores themes of aspiration, travel, future shock and relationships. Pretty much all of the tracks will have music videos which will be a great way of bringing them further to life. A little teaser of the title is that it is space related.
9- How has your journey as an artist evolved since your critically acclaimed debut single, ‘do you think it’s fine?’ What have been the most significant milestones and personal growth you’ve experienced along the way?
I’ve learned so much about the industry since my debut. It’s a tough industry and you have to be so determined to keep your head above the water but what I’ve learned is that when you put 100% of your energy into something, things usually pay off.
A significant milestone was being selected for my mentorship with Fred Again.. and Kamille. At the time, I was working in a clothes shop and emailing studios all over London trying to get any kind of music related work. I was applying for a secretary role at a major studio and the day I found out I didn’t get it was ALSO the day I found out I’d have monthly sessions for a year with these hugely talented writers. Getting that recognition gave me more confidence so that when I got the opportunity to start doing live touring work, I had more strings to my bow (or keys to my keytar to be more precise).
10- As an artist, what message or emotions do you hope your music conveys to your audience, and what impact do you aspire to have on the music industry and your listeners?
My music often has themes of self-empowerment and I hope that anyone listening can bop along but also feel confident, themselves and sometimes a little bit sassy. I hope that I can inspire the next generation of female producers that they can do it too. There may only be 3% of us but our numbers are growing and we’re here to stay.
See you later!
The Hollywood Six 