Join us as we dive into an exclusive conversation with RaaHiim, the rising star redefining the music scene with his unique sound and bold creativity. In this interview, he opens up about his artistic journey, personal inspirations, and what fans can expect from his exciting upcoming projects.
Marie: Why did you choose RAAHiiM as your stage name?
RAAHiiM : Raahiim is my birth name, chosen by my father, and I really love it. So, I thought it was important to stay true to myself. Right now, I’m living in LA, but Toronto is still my home and my favorite place.
Marie: Your first single was called DIVE. How did it feel to begin your career with this single, and when did you realize you wanted to be a singer?
RAAHiiM : I knew early on since my entire family is made up of musicians. I picked it up very quickly from a young age—it happened organically. My father and grandparents were musicians, and all my cousins, aunts, etc. were involved in music. So, very early on, I chose to pursue music as my craft.
Marie: What kind of music did they play?
RAAHiiM : My dad was a producer, my grandfather was an opera singer, my grandmother was a piano teacher, and my cousins are also into music. I personally play the piano.
Marie: What were the biggest challenges you faced?
RAAHiiM : I think the biggest challenge is yourself. The external factors are a given. When you step into the world of music, you’re supposed to face obstacles and hiccups. Roadblocks will naturally appear, but mastering yourself is the hardest part of the craft. There’s a certain level of resilience you need, but it makes you a better person in the end. So, it’s not a bad thing at all. The outside challenges never really bothered me; those are just part of the game that make you stronger.
Marie: I saw that your first album was called iiknewbetter. How did you get inspired to write such impactful lyrics that many people can relate to?
RAAHiiM : Most of them are my stories, or from my friends’ perspectives when they tell me their experiences, or things I’ve witnessed. But a lot of it is my own personal experience, especially with that album. iiknewbetter was about self-acceptance, especially in terms of relationships and growing as a man. I probably knew what the right course of action was but didn’t have the discipline to see it through. There was a bit of repentance with that album; it was almost a little apologetic.
Marie: Who would you say were and are your biggest inspirations?
RAAHiiM : D’Angelo, Frank Ocean, Drake, and a bit of Donny Hathaway—he’s a really old artist from the ’70s, a gorgeous musician.
Marie: I noticed your most popular song is PEAK. How did you feel becoming known for this song?
RAAHiiM : I didn’t think PEAK would be the song that made me famous. I didn’t even like the song at first. A friend of mine pushed me to put it out there and trust my ability to create. I was really blessed with that song. Sometimes, you might not like what you’re creating because you’re so focused on reaching a goal, but then it ends up becoming the thing that brings you the most success.
Marie: What are three words you would use to describe your music?
RAAHiiM : Soulful, reflective, and honest.
Marie: Do you think you’ll ever venture out of the R&B genre? In your song 1000 Lives, I feel like you lean towards a pop sound. Do you think you’ll break the pattern?
RAAHiiM : I create a lot outside of R&B, even if it’s not just for myself. I like to tap into different genres and sounds. But for now, my main focus is R&B. Who knows where it’ll take me as I grow older—maybe I’ll want to make rock music or jazz. But for now, R&B and I are still very much in love.
Marie: I saw that you did a collaboration with Isaiah Falls called IMISSTORONTO. How did that come about?
RAAHiiM : I reached out to him and let him know that I was a big fan of his work, that his music was gorgeous. Shortly after, I went to Florida to work on an album, and he came to my house. We had a great late-night conversation about life and music. A few weeks later, we made a song together and got to know each other as people.
Marie: Are there any other artists you’d like to collaborate with?
RAAHiiM : Yebba—that would be the artist I’d love to create something with.
Marie: Which project are you most proud of?
RAAHiiM : The one I’m working on right now. I’m trying my best to live in the present moment. I don’t want to live in the past. I feel like the one I’m currently putting my focus and energy into is the one I’m most proud of.
Marie: Could you tell our audience a little about your upcoming project and what you have planned for the end of the year?
RAAHiiM : All I can really say is that there’s going to be a lot more music with different styles and sounds.
Marie: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
RAAHiiM : I want to continue doing what I love—taking care of my people and making music. I think I’ll feel successful if I do that. That’s always been the goal, and I think it always will be.
Marie: It seems like people feel close to you by relating to your lyrics.
RAAHiiM : Yeah, I enjoy that—sharing a part of myself at all times.
Marie: Do you see yourself touring in Europe or collaborating with artists there?
RAAHiiM : The last time I was in Europe, it was only for a few days in the UK, and I had a beautiful show. I’d like to spend a lot more time there, learning the culture and meeting the people. In the near future, maybe I’ll make that trip again.
Marie: What does True Urban Culture mean to you?
RAAHiiM : It means authenticity. The culture can get watered down quickly when money and success are involved. It’s important to promise to stay true to the essence of what it is.
For everything RAAHiiM, follow him on Instagram, and YouTube.