Sami Rizk is an incredibly talented rapper, producer, and composer. With his brand-new album, idle, he makes a major turning point in his career and displays his distinct musical approach. idle, showcasing his musical ability while emphasizing his unwavering devotion to artistic development, ever-expanding musical talent, and genuineness. He keeps pushing the envelope and discovering new musical frontiers.
We had a conversation with him regarding the release, his future plans, and the reasons you should listen to his music. Check it out here at IGNITE!
Hey Sami Rizk how are you doing?
Everything is well, actively pursuing my dreams while completing college my junior year of college! Working and pushing, and looking on starting my fourth project and my fashion catalog soon.
Who are your main influences?
‘Tyler, The Creator’ ‘Mac Miller’ ‘Kanye West’ ‘Smino’ ‘Saba’ ‘J. Cole’
Sum up your music for us in three words?
Bold, reaching for something, calm/cloud/chill.
What's your biggest highlight so far?
My biggest highlight is the shows I’ve had here in Pittsburgh, performing for what feels like my new home has been nothing short of amazing.
How have friends and family reacted to your journey so far in music?
At first, it was seen as a joke by me, my peers, and my family. But slowly and surely my vision, passion, and drive grew–Sadly people’s beliefs grow a lot slower so it’s taken me quite some time to get the reactions I’ve been hoping for. My parents are still on the fence about all of it but are seeing how much I love my art. As the depth of my love for art grows, I’ve seen friends and peers grow more appeal to my music and style.
Congratulations on the release of your new album ‘idle’. We're loving it! How did it come about and what’s the meaning and/or message behind the album?
For the last three years, I’ve been working on a project that truly reflects the inside of my mind. As I’ve continued to grow and learn as a human, I’ve exponentially grown
as an artist. Being “idle” is something we all feel in time—a hopeless reach for a colorful burst of what could be or just a second to breathe, ponder, and truly feel your own presence. I hope this album can offer a piece of harmony to all struggle—for my struggle
is yours, and your struggle is the world.
What was the recording and writing process like for this album?
Very natural, very organic, it took me three years of culminating art and vision to really execute this idea. The recording and writing process often happened unconsciously–usually, I’d have my next verse or melody floating around in my mind before I’d even realize. I am nothing but an extension of my art, I have seen my art as a still embodiment of me therefore all I do is breathe and nurture art. My lifestyle was tailored to understanding the human struggle, I lived in a way that allowed me to struggle and relate to the immense hurt around the world.
How would you describe this album sonically for our readers?
This is a rap/hip-hop/alternative fusion album that incorporates many different sounds to create particular dynamics amongst songs and the whole project. It is at times daunting, hopeless, or perhaps filled with hope. The album is a colorful roller coaster of helpless emotions that we encounter on a daily basis.
What are your plans for the rest of 2024? What can fans expect?
I am working on my fourth album already! I am designing my first fashion catalog and I’m gonna continue to create. I am here to claim my part of the cake, I am confident ‘Sami Rizk’ has long-term real estate in this industry.