Hailing from Cape Verde, 4Rain is a talented DJ and record producer who spent his formative years in France. The French-born artist has been on a journey of exploration as he ventures across continents seeking inspiration. Having lived in several cities across the globe – Paris, Toronto, Miami, London and so many more, 4Rain’s diverse experiences have influenced his multifaceted musical approach.
With a commitment to his craft and an unquenchable thirst to embracing his sound, the artist is set to captivate his audience and forever create a lasting impression. With a quest to showcase his distinctive sound and electrifying melodies, 4Rain is on a set mission to establishing himself as one of the best in this generation. I caught up with the artist where he discussed his formative years, inspiration in his travels and future ambitions in the industry.
How are you doing today?
I am doing good! Working on a lot of projects
For those who might be unfamiliar with you, can you tell me a bit about yourself?
My name is 4Rain. I am a DJ and producer from France. I currently live in Miami. I have been in the music scene since about 15 years ago. I am still here and glad to still be there.
Your music has some form of introspection. Can you describe your creative process when producing music? Where do you draw inspiration from?
Each music has its story. Sometimes I just have the beats and later speak to the artists to translate it into something much more beautiful. The lyrics comes from the artists and at times the beats can even be changed to fit the artist’s style. There are cases where this is done as it might not match the artist’s emotions. It really depends on the collaboration from both ends as we want to capture emotions. Honestly, depends on the season of the person. Everyday is a new process. It is really wide.
How do you approach incorporating different genres or styles into your music?
Its not always easy. The challenge is bringing someone into a genre they are not used to. Most of the time, it becomes my own challenge. We go to the studio where we work on the beats which are the basic foundation. After that, it takes weeks for me to find that balance between them and my sound. My longest process was with Niniola which took three years. I made six-seven versions of the song. I brought Kly to it who is from South Africa and his vibe matched with both mine and Niniola. This was the best version for me.
Growing up in different parts of the world, would you say that has influenced your style of music?
Yes, I would say that. I am from Cape Verde. I am trying to bring my roots to my sounds. I am working on a project that people will enjoy. Breaking Away is a part of that project where we hope to bring different cultural influences to it.
This is your second collaboartion with Priscilla K. what motivated you to work with her again?
We made this track one year ago after Out of Time. We really loved Out of Time and wanted to create something different. At this moment, we were thinking what could we make that everyone could relate to around the world. Breaking Away emerged from that as it revolved round a toxic relationship. Everyone has been in this position at one point in their lives and we hope for everyone to be able to relate to it. I gave her the beat and the next day, everything was done. Priscilla K works extremely fast as she makes everything easy. The magic is always there.
Are we going to be getting exclusive French sounds in the future?
Yes, I have an idea yet to be done. I am working with French artists on various tracks. But there are works definitely in the future.
Can you discuss any challenges you’ve faced in your journey as a music producer and how you’ve overcome them?
Not really. It has been positive experiences. I am in a position where everything is in the perfect motion. Last year, I had a crazy tour which is also happening again this year. Many great projects coming out this year which I am super excited about. Everything is falling in place.
Can you share any memorable experiences that have left a lasting impact on you?
Everyday is amazing. My best memory has to be with my fans. They show love everyday. I love seeing the amount of love in videos to my sound. My happiness is made from people’s happiness. A few days ago, I saw an Instagram video of a child who has to listen to my sound to sleep. It just means a lot to me.
Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
I am working with a lot of DJs at the moment from around the world. I am working with a big project as well with a Colombian artist. Expect a lot as well in the summer and a big project along the line.
What would you describe as a benchmark of fulfilment to you?
Eight years ago, I wanted to sign with Empire. To believe it’s happening now is crazy. We had been planning this for a while but it didn’t work. In the past when I had projects with Future, Meek Mill and a lot more when I was into hiphop. It’s amazing to see that it all worked out in the end especially signing with them on my own project.
Listen to his latest single “Breaking Away” with Priscilla K here: https://open.spotify.com/album/7onc78BcAuVIu0dAZ1FOxc?si=Or3miCtiR4K78YUvOoq2Bw
