Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with D.B. Ricapito

It’s an exciting time for pop music, and that’s thanks to rising artists like D.B. Ricapito who continue to push and redefine the genre. This up-and-comer has taken the industry by storm with seductive singles, like his 2018 debut, “California King,” which has been streamed over 300,000 times! He’s proven with each new release that he knows how to connect with an audience with not only his sound but also his words. That talent is further exemplified with his latest release, “So Crazy.” Pop Culturalist caught up with D.B. to chat about “So Crazy” and what fans can expect from his debut EP.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
D.B.: When I was about twelve, I used to watch American Idol with my family like so many other kids my age. But I would always be so fascinated with the singers, and after each show, I would try and recreate their auditions. That was it. I was hooked. Around sixteen, I decided to learn the guitar so I could write my own songs.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
D.B.: I’d have to say that some of the biggest musical influences would be John Mayer and Shawn Mendes, but music has always been my refuge. It has always been the only way I can truly express how I’m feeling.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “So Crazy.” What inspired the track?
D.B.: It was one of those songs that just seemed meant to be. Right before we had gotten in the studio, a friend was telling me how he was trapped in the “friend zone” with this girl, and all she ever did was vent about other guys and how they mistreat her, while all along he’s always been there waiting. When I sat down with Stavros [producer] and Aire [cowriter], everyone was on the same page. Guess we’ve all been there.

PC: You’ve released a couple of singles so far. If you had to choose one that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
D.B.: I would have to say “So Crazy.” I just love the vibe. The story is relatable but has that melody that just sticks with you. It also feels the most authentic to me as an artist, so you can expect a little more of this vibe in the future.

PC: Your first single, “California King,” has been streamed over 300,000 times. Does that add any additional pressure for future releases?
D.B.: Less from a streams perspective and more that I always want the next song to do even better than the one before it. But if I can look back on my music and be proud of what we created, I’m good.

PC: The industry has become a singles market. How has that impacted your approach to music and the business?
D.B.: Our main approach is always to make music that me and my team feel good about. It all starts with having a great song. But I do love the idea of singles, ‘cause there’s so much freedom to just create and not have the pressure of an album until the time is right.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
D.B.: Lots of new music, as well as my first EP! I’m also looking forward to getting out in front of my fans with this new music for some live shows, but who knows with the way things are currently going. If I don’t get a chance to tour, I’ll definitely be live-streaming some performances.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
D.B.: Morgan Wallen. A lot of people would be surprised about how much country music plays on my Spotify.

PC: First album you bought?
D.B.: John Mayer’s Continuum

PC: First concert you attended?
D.B.: Believe it or not, it was Greyson Chance. I’ve been a fan of his for a while. His new album is so good.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
D.B.: Handwritten by Shawn Mendes really changed my life. It was at a time when I was working on how to best connect to my music, and his album just felt like the perfect example.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
D.B.: There are so many great venues I have on my list, but the Anthem in DC, Madison Square Garden, and the Staples Center are a few.

PC: A must-have on the road?
D.B.: A good Spotify playlist and my guitar. My team is always looking at me weird because I bring my guitar everywhere I go. So crazy.

To keep up with D.B., follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream “So Crazy” today.