Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Roman Rouge

Roman Rouge is a next-generation singer-songwriter who’s quickly making his mark on not only the music industry but the world. His career is off to a strong start with over 50,000 streams, notable placements on various Spotify playlists, and shout-outs from industry giants like Khalid. His new single, “Need a Friend,” is the perfect introduction to his trademark sound and intricate vocal prowess. Pop Culturalist caught up with this rising talent to learn more about him.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Roman: I found my passion for music the day I first performed a song of mine in front of a live audience. The energy and the feedback were incredible, and the drive started from there.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Roman: I believe artists such as Majid Jordan and the Weeknd have some of the biggest influences on me. Their vibe and artistry are very relatable to my own. I’m also heavily influenced and driven by what I don’t have or haven’t accomplished yet.

PC: Speaking about goals, what do you hope to accomplish in the future?
Roman: I just hope I can build a culture and a diehard fan base that feels like they’re a part of something and a part of the journey just like I am. I really want everything I do to be one day bigger than just the music.

PC: You’ve said in previous interviews that you’re very introverted. Does that affect your songwriting?
Roman: In a sense it does. I think it allows me to focus and dive deeper into myself and what I’m feeling. I’m not antisocial, as I do go out and experience things. But I have the ability to take periods of time on my own and reflect.

PC: You have a new single out. Tell us about “Need A Friend” and the inspiration behind the track.
Roman: “Need a Friend” revolves around being left by someone you love so much that you would rather stay friends with them no matter how much it hurts than not having them at all. This idea brings the realization that we were never meant to be together and things were better as friends in the beginning anyway.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
Roman: I’m just looking to get my foot in the door and introduce myself. I hope these early releases in my career can grasp people and start something special.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Roman: Kacey Musgraves

PC: First album you bought?
Roman: Thriller

PC: First concert you attended?
Roman: NDMF [Neon Desert Music Festival] 2013

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Roman: The Space Between by Majid Jordan because I was never really into albums before then. And this was the first album I was so excited for, and it inspired me to want to make music for fans that they would be super excited for. This is what introduced me to music as a whole, and I really started to get it after that.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Roman: The Sun Bowl in El Paso. The last act to play it was One Direction. So I would love to make my city proud.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Roman: A PS4 [laughs]

To keep up with Roman, follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream “Need a Friend” today.