Rawanne on self-expression, her home setup and unexpected collaborations [interview]

Meet Rawanne, the dynamic Lebanese-Romanian sensation: a multifaceted artist—singer, songwriter, producer, and radio DJ who has captivated audiences with her eclectic blend of electronic and pop sounds. From her debut single ‘Deeply in Love’ featuring MC Robinho in 2010 to her latest hits like ‘Goodbye’ and ‘You Don’t Own Me’, Rawanne’s music resonates with authenticity and emotion. Her collaborations with notable artists such as DJ Goja and Triplo Max showcase her versatility and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Beyond the studio, Rawanne’s electrifying stage presence and genuine connection with fans have solidified her status as a rising star in the global music scene.

Read our interview with the magnetic maestro below:

Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
The arts are the purest form of self-expression. Music, in particular, allows me to connect with people on a deep emotional level—whether it’s joy, heartbreak, or hope. It’s a universal language that speaks to the soul. From a young age, I was drawn to melodies and lyrics that told stories, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that world. Creating music isn’t just a passion; it’s a necessity for me. It’s how I make sense of the world and share my truth with others.

Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?
It depends on the mood I’m in. Usually, I record ideas on my phone. I remember once waking up in the middle of the night just to capture a melody that came to me. Other times, if I hear something that inspires me, I start the song with a bassline. I don’t really have a fixed rule—it all flows naturally.

Does your material feature any collaborations?
On my next song, I actually have two collaborations with artists from different countries. It’s a completely different track from what I’ve done before, and it will definitely be a challenge for me—but I can’t wait to share it.

What’s on your current playlist?
I’ve been really into Peggy Gou’s ‘It Goes Like (Na Na Na)’ lately—it has such a unique vibe! But I also like to keep my playlist diverse. I’m a big fan of Dua Lipa and Beyoncé; their energy and artistry always inspire me.

Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
The energy from my fans is everything! Their reactions, their voices singing along—it creates a connection that’s beyond words. It’s not just me performing; it’s us sharing a moment together.

What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
The emotion I put into my songwriting is key to creating my original sound. I focus on capturing real feelings and translating them into music. Whether it’s joy, sadness, or nostalgia, I let the emotion guide the melody and lyrics. That authenticity is what makes each song unique.

Take us through a day in the recording studio.
I can’t wait to welcome you! My team at BlackJack Records is like a family—we work hard, but we also have a great vibe in the studio. From the first minute, you’ll feel like part of the team, I can guarantee that!

Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?
Omg, so many times! My manager already expects me to say I’m quitting every now and then. But honestly, it’s just a fleeting thought—I can’t live without music. I won’t lie, I struggle internally at times, questioning if this is really my path. But the satisfaction of finishing a song and the incredible feedback from people makes it all worth it. That feeling is priceless.

What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
Water! :)) My in-ear monitors, and good energy! Staying hydrated is a must, and my in-ears help me stay connected to the music. But most importantly, I keep the vibe high—because if I feel it, the audience will too!

Any emerging artists on your radar?
Yes! Peggy Gou is definitely on my radar. I love her track ‘It Goes Like (Na Na Na)’—it has such a fresh and unique vibe.

What gets your creative juices flowing?
Honestly, inspiration hits me in the most random ways. Sometimes it’s a feeling, a conversation, or even a melody that pops into my head at night—I always have my phone ready to record. But I truly believe that pain creates art. At least for me, that’s been the case—songs like ‘Goodbye’ and ‘You Don’t Own Me’ were written during some of the hardest times in my life. Music is how I process everything.