Interview: Roxy Rawson - Running Up That Hill

‘Running Up That Hill’ is Roxy Rawson’s latest offering, and comes in the form of a chillingly beautiful single. Ethereal synths and divine vocals form a formidable partnership, crafting a unique and signature sound that is sure to fully entice you into her world. Accompanying the powerful single is an equally powerful video in which solace, hope and empowerment can be found. Showcasing incredible visuals, the video showcases incredibly vulnerable moments that are set in tranquil settings as the track explores the deep topic of faith.

By Kamil Bobin

Discovered via Musosoup

Kamil) Hey Roxy Rawson, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?

I remember that I first fell in love with music when I heard the flute for the first time. I would have been 4 or 5 years old. Then I bugged my dad for piano lessons after seeing how it was played in church.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

An orchestrator/ artist named Jherek Bischoff.

Your latest song is 'Running Up That Hill'. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?

I recorded this with Alex Franklinos at his Shrunkenheads Recording Studio in London in 2019. During that time I was experiencing a lot of change, after recovery from an illness that had left me bed bound for 8 years and the gradual dissolution of my marriage. The time with Al was an escape into creation, away from the stress of such intense transition. We started out just with the violin, but ended up exploring electronic sounds, synthesisers and effects to create a wide soundscape.

What are you focussing on right now?

I have been working on my vocals for a new song I aim to record this month with an arranger whose work I love. I've also been creating a course for people to recover from long covid and CFS.

What are you most proud of?

That I was able to recover from CFS and Lyme disease by using my own compassion, and be able to function and make music again:).

What is the biggest challenge of being an artist?

For me personally, being seen and heard publically has always been a struggle for me. But my work with my nervous system during my recovery is helping me to feel calmer on stage.

How do you structure your day?

I usually start with meditation and body listening, sending compassion to my body, and then I have a list of activities that vary between vocal training, practicing my instruments, teaching violin, recording sessions, writing sessions and teaching my compassionate body listening to people.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?

Yes lots! I love the arts generally, I love going to museums, reading novels and poetry. Cooking and dancing:). I also love documentaries and understanding space and the natural world better. And languages. I'm studying German and always trying to brush up on my French.

Do you sing in the shower? What songs?

Often! Whatever I'm listening to I usually harmonise with it.

What can we expect from Roxy Rawson in the near future?

I'm really hoping that I can finish my album this year, finalise the orchestrations and collaborate with others. It makes whatever I create better to combine forces with other people.