Introducing Singer-Songwriter R.LUM.R
Bold, raw, and emotional are three ways to describe singer-songwriter R.LUM.R.. Finding love for music at an early age, the vocalist grew up to have an eclectic taste ranging from R&B, pop, rock, and soul. His passion continued in his undergrad career, studying guitar and Japanese at Florida State University. During this period, he started building his catalog of music while performing at local hotspots. After leaving university and moving to Orlando, he continued to create and tweak his music and artistry, with the R.LUM.R persona being born in the process. In 2015 he released his first track ‘Show Me,’ which showcased his impressive vocals and expert songwriting. Fast forward to 2019, and the rising artist is carving his own lane with the release of two EPs and his debut album Surfacing.
We got a chance to chat with R.LUM.R about everything from his new album, the challenges of being vulnerable, and so much more…
Your album ‘Surfacing’ is an album that tackles topics like mental health and self-identity. Can you go into your experience making this record?
My personal experiences aren’t as important as the listener’s, in this case. I’m much more interested in how they feel, than myself.
Did you find it challenging to be vulnerable and open up about these intimate topics?
Yes, but what needed to be said always felt so important that the challenge couldn’t stop me. It became less about the fear of what I’m saying, and more about the consideration of making sure I said it all with care specifically because I was important. I do believe you need to be honest, but there’s no reason to be reckless in the process, if you can avoid it.
Your track ‘Boys Should Never Cry’ is such an emotional and fantastic track. Which track on the album was your favourite to create?
They all came from different, important places that depend on each other. You can’t single one out, really. Like, “Making A Choice” is me attempting to face myself, and “What If I” is me actually starting to do that. “How This Feels” is me beginning to approach the reality of a relationship, and “Cold” is me finally admitting the truth about it out loud. “Middle Of The Night” was the hopelessness, and “Surfacing” was the light at the end of the tunnel that came after. “Happy” is bitterness, but “Lonely” is the hope returning in response….
Basically, It’s hard to pick a favorite when they’re all important and depend on each other. I know it’s a pretty typical answer, but it’s the truth for me.
What do you want your fans to take away after listening to Surfacing?
I think we should think about empathy and sympathy more. I’d hope they try to see I to themselves more, and into other people as well. Also, take care of your mental health, as best you can.
When did you fall in love with R&B?
I don’t think I’ve ever fallen in love with a genre as much as I do certain feelings. The art I like talks a lot about love, and exposes me to other people’s feelings that I may not have considered or, and I like that. I guess that’s why I try to recreate that for others because I think that’s what we’re all after, really; a certain feeling. You know it when it hits.
What was it like to perform on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE!?
Jimmy was totally the nicest guy, and he didn’t have to be. I’m sure he meets like 100 new people a week, but he knew who I was and my story. I know that’s his job and he’s very good at it, but it still made me feel welcome there. He also shouted out my hometown of Bradenton, Florida in the broadcast, which was a huge deal for everybody watching from there!
Do you have a routine or ritual you do before you create music?
Honestly, I wish I did, but I don’t. There are certain things I can do to invite the feeling, but if it doesn’t want to come it doesn’t. I stay ready tho.
It usually just means I need to go pay attention to my life while I’m living it.
Will you be going on a tour for the album?
Yes! This will be the first headline tour of the new Album Surfacing, so I’m excited to see people feel it in real time. All the details will be on my website!
Make sure to check out R.LUM.R new video for his track Lonely and debut album Surfacing!
