Introducing The Passionate R&B Singer-Songwriter Rationale
Brimming with soul and passion, Rationale is an artist that creates R&B with an old and new school twist. The talented singer-songwriter found his love for music after moving to South London from Zimbabwe. In 2015 Rationale officially debuted with is track and EP ‘Fuel to the Fire’. Since his start, he has written with Katy Perry and Rag’n’Bone Man and released another EP and self-titled debut album. Rationale is continuing to make waves with his new collaboration with emerging artist Ayelle on their track ‘Hurt the Most’. Bringing an 90’s R&B sound, the new single showcases impressive vocals, and sweet lyrics that listeners everywhere will enjoy!
We were able to chat with Rationale about everything from his new single, what shaped him musically, sold-out show, and more!
You teamed up with Ayelle on the track Hurt the Most, how did you two link up?
I came across Ayelle’s music by chance on instagram. Well, I say chance but I think she was promoting her single ‘Obvious’ at the time and it turned up in my feed. I was hooked pretty quick and I just loved her voice. So, I sent her message asking if she wanted to write some time. The rest is history.
Was the track inspired by anything in particular?
To be honest? The track was inspired by every shitty relationship I/we have ever been in. Relationships that started off brightly but tailed off into hurtful ones fraught with broken promises and hurtful words. I’m not bitter at all, I swear haha!
How has your childhood shaped you and your music?
I think growing up partly in Zimbabwe and England means I approach life situations a little differently sometimes. Growing up in Zimbabwe during the early 90’s was really difficult. Nothing came easy so I learned to appreciate the little things. When my family emigrated to England it felt like a different world. New language, new culture… it was pretty overwhelming. I think that all melted into the way I make music. I have a great appreciation for the opportunities that come my way and my identity is an amalgamation of both cultures. So, I guess you could say that’s shaped my sound a lot.
What were some of your favorite moments writing with Katy Perry and Rag ‘n’ Bone Man?
My favourite moments writing with Rag were probably around the very beginning, around 4 years ago. I remember the first time I heard him sing a few lines I’d penned and being blown away. I knew I wanted to be involved in whatever way I could.
My favourite moment writing with Katy Perry is probably something I can’t talk about. However, I do remember having a twerking competition with her a few days in. It was pretty hilarious.
If you could collaborate with any other musician who would it be and why?
Right now? I would probably collaborate with Khalid. I think he’s pretty special.
Will you be releasing another album or EP soon?
Yeah, I think I’ll be releasing a new album next year. I’ve got a few surprises lined before then though.
What can fans expect from your upcoming Islington Assembly Hall show?
My fans can expect to have a wicked night of tunes and good vibes. It’s been a while since I’ve played a headline show so they should probably expect me to fall over a few times on stage too. Just saying haha.
Five years from now, where do you hope to see yourself as an artist?
5 years from now I hope to still be making music and not sitting in an office somewhere talking about what could have been.
Make sure to check out his collaboration with Ayelle on the track ‘Hurts the Most’ below!
