Toronto’s Rahael has unveiled her stunning new indie folk-pop tune “Beautifully Black.”
“I was trying to tell MY story,” says Rahael. “What I love about this song is that it takes the obvious stereotypes Black people deal with day to day and celebrates and embraces them.”
A self-taught guitarist, Rahael’s songwriting is emotive and soul-baring inspired by her personal experiences and guided by the ethereal moments love and relationships have to offer.
Check out “Beautifully Black” below and find out more about Rahael via her socials.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Through songwriting, I create an immersive and cinematic world that celebrates the intimacy of love and the haven and comfort it offers. I began exploring my affinity for music at a young age playing the guitar, diving more into music through church, and, as I progressed through school, joining theatre. After moving from Vancouver to Ottawa and finally settling in Toronto, my passion for songwriting crystallized.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
“Beautifully Black” is a song rooted in the reclamation of stereotypes and the celebration of individuality. For a long time I tried to deny the stereotypes cast on me about Black people, like how my elbows are dry or how my hair grows in napped. Lately I’ve realized they don’t hinder the content of my character but strengthen it. By denying my stereotypes, I denied my individuality. ‘Beautifully Black’ is my celebratory and uplifting anthem.
When it comes to the global pandemic, how are you keeping yourself out in the public eye while not being able to perform?
I’m definitely one of those artists that could use some work (and help, ha!) when it comes to keeping up with my social media accounts. However, I did download TikTok and started uploading bits of covers and original songs. The most consistent medium I use is Instagram and I use the “Story” setting to post new songs almost as soon as I write them, keeping most people wanting more!
Canadian Beats is all about Canadian music, so if you were able to work with ONE fellow Canadian artist, alive or dead, who would you choose?
If I could with any Canadian artist, I would choose Donovan Woods, easy peasy. I’m always attracted to the writing of other musicians and the way he writes is absolutely beautiful and delicate. Definitely inspires some of the way in which I write my own songs.
What’s your goal for 2022?
My goal for 2022 is to stay committed to me. This is the first time I’ve dropped everything and focused on myself and my music career and so far so good! But this road is long and hard with lots of ups and downs and will only get easier the more familiar I become with my heart and goals. It sure is going to be one hell of a ride and I’m here for it!”
Connect with Rahael:
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