by PRIYA MULJI
TALENTED singer/songwriter Rita Morar wanted to share a raw emotive piece of music, and ended up producing a 30-second demo for Soundcloud.
She then approached Oman-based producer Sound Shikari to collaborate, and the result is the stunning new single Signs. Eastern Eye caught up with Rita to find out more...
What inspired your new single?
Inspiration for Signs came from going through change and accepting closure. Change isn’t easy; sometimes we don’t want things to end. We look for signs to keep hope; sometimes it guides, but sometimes it gives us an indirect answer.
What was the biggest challenging in making the song?
Whether to add more lyrics! In the end, we decided to focus on adding more music, especially the sarangi (a string instrument), to help bring out the sensitivity in the song. Sound Shikari approached the song compassionately and I connected with it instantly.
Who are you hoping connects with this track?
Anyone that loves EDM cinematic music with a down tempo beat. I also hope this song gives strength to those in difficult times; to help bring out emotion that it is okay to have hope, but also recognise that sometimes closure is good too.
What can we expect next?
I shall be singing on Hussain Manawer’s next release Homemade. I had the opportunity to support him at the prestigious Jazz Café, which was thrilling. I have a track called Distant Memory with Drifta and am working on others. I have also set up a web-blog called Music Heals, which is in its early stages. I found there is a gap in our community on how music can help individuals, so I will help to explore further.
What music dominates your playlist?
Jorja Smith’s album is stunning; I found out that Nitin Sawhney even helped contribute the strings on The One, which is amazing. I have also been listening to Pakistan’s Coke Studio 10, where Naina Moray and Sayonee have been on constant repeat.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Naughty Boy; it would be interesting to see how he could infuse my voice with eastern and western vibes out there.
If you could learn an instrument, which would it be?
I would love to play the piano. The piano helps me to relax and I often listen to pieces in the evening when I am winding down.
Today, what is your biggest motivating factor?
My passion for music! Having recovered from Dysphonia (a disorder of the vocal chords) after four months and getting the go-ahead from doctors to sing again, I take care of my health in order to keep my voice intact. I have been given another chance to sing, so I count every opportunity as a blessing. My support unit of my dear family, close friends and supporters have kept me motivated to do my best in all.
What is the biggest lesson the music industry has taught you?
You need to put the work in to be recognised. You need to keep on pushing no matter your career stage. Also, you can say no if it doesn’t feel right.
Why should we pick up your latest single?
Because it’s me and Signs is different from the norm. You would make me so happy. Being an independent artist isn’t easy, but with your encouragement, it would motivate me to make even more music and be heard.
