Interview: Rhys Rich On His Unique Sound, His New Single 'Family Of Solace,’ & More

Wellington artist, Rhys Rich, is gearing up to release his debut album later in the year. With his new single ‘Family Of Solace’ on rotation, we caught up with Rhys and learnt more about him. You can also catch Rhys live in Wellington - Friday 10 July.

Congrats on ‘Family Of Solace.’ What’s the story behind it? 

Thank Ange! I think Family Of Solace for me was coming to terms with what and who is actually helping me. Family is obviously at the top what's important as a human, the quicker you realise age, job and look mean nothing, the easier it’ll be to notice that we all just want to be loved. Family Of Solace means no judgement, no expectations, empathy and comfort, when you need it most. 

How’d you get started with music? 

I’ve always had an obsession with music and unique sounds in general. My brother and I just about clocked every genre you can think of growing up, from Chilli Peppers, to Flux Pavillion, to Pavarotti, meanwhile Mum made sure we’d still be blessed with The Fugees, UB40, Marley and many more. The dream was to be a DJ playing at Tomorrowland when I was 11 years old, and that same year is when I realised I could make music on my family computer, so I guess that’s how it started. 

You have a unique sound. How would you describe it, and who influences you? 

I grew up in Australia for the majority of my life, then moved here, so I guess there’s a strange twang. But I’d like to say it’s because of the willingness to be accepting to different kinds of music when I was younger. Inspiration is great when you’re looking for it, but it’s a lot better when it finds you, especially unexpectedly. I’d say I am a contemporary R&B artist, but that is thanks to people like James Blake, Benjamin Clementine, FKA Twigs, and so on, for actually breaking the borders of what is possible within a still soulful, recognizable and melodic R&B composition. 

How did you come up with the name Rhys Rich? 

My middle name is ‘Henare Dion Rhys Richard’, shit works. 

What is one experience in life that, without it, you wouldn’t be the artist you are today? 

I’d definitely say time, which isn’t really one experience, but being able to look back, not only at your work from a month ago, or 5 years ago, but yourself and ability back then. For me, my creative history is what really puts my growth and achievements as an artist into perspective, which helps to re-image your dream. 

There is some serious talent coming out of Wellington at the moment. Yourself included. Who would you like to collab with in the future? 

In terms of Wellington, homies Heist and Name UL are back from the UK, we’ve been working on a few things, also starting linking with Waguan, big ups. I’m ready to bounce on a track with the queen, Jess B, I'm coming. Also, collab with Connan Mockasin a dream of mine. 

What’s next for Rhys Rich? 

I’m dropping a few more singles before the album ‘Family Of Solace’ later in the year! With this border restriction in place, I wanna get around Aotearoa as much as possible this summer, so more shows as well. 

Anything else you’d like to mention? 

Massive thanks for all the support on the release so far. My single ‘Family Of Solace’ is out now on all major streaming platforms, so add that to ya earpiece.