EQUATE Meets Rasharn Powell
"Whatever I can control is within my grasp. Whatever I can’t, I leave to the wind."
Photography Credit: Henry Rich
Turn on the taps, add some bubbles and soak yourself in ‘Freedom’, the soulful new offering from Rasharn Powell. In his final single of the year, Rasharn presents the idea that freeing yourself in the moments of life is the way forward. A song about handing over control, and with the understated, slick latin-influenced production, your hips will certainly let go. Speaking on the track, he states that “this year has taught me a lot and forced me inwards. I rediscovered the youthful freedom we too often lose in adolescence. I’m comfortable in the chaos and I guess that’s my new freedom.”. With a highly evolved musical palette, the London based artist finds inspiration from anywhere between Bon Iver and Andre 3000. His growing musical presence hasn’t gone unnoticed, gaining recognition with his highly acclaimed singles ‘Joyride’, ‘Smithereens’ and ‘Twelvemonth’. ‘Freedom’ is the perfect ending to a tumultuous year, so sit back, relax let the power of Powell drive you home. We caught up with Rasharn for an insightful Q&A discussing
Read the feature below…
Words and interview by Elle Watson
EQ: Hey Rasharn! In three words how would you describe yourself?
R: On the way.
EQ: Who was the soundtrack to your upbringing? Where did your love for music stem from?
R: Blackstreet’s album “Another Level” at home to Beres Hammond’s album “Sweetness” at my grandparents. Just showing the scope of the soundtrack! (Laughs)
EQ: ‘Freedom’ has such an irresistible feel to it. How did the song come to fruition? What was the process?
R: Thank you! Sometimes you make songs & you just know what you want to say, before thinking. The words start falling out your mouth (laughs). That was “Freedom”.
EQ: There’s something to be said for letting go in today’s society, even if it’s chaotic and uncertain. In what ways do you feel free after this revelation?
R: Whatever I can control is within my grasp. Whatever I can’t, I leave to the wind. It’s really that simple.
Photography Credit: Harmony Cummings
“Being faced with certain realities can definitely deplete that youth but I think it’s where strengthening your mindset plays a massive part. Health is true wealth.”
- RASHARN POWELL
EQ: .. and what about when making music? Do you ever find it hard to apply this attitude in the creative process, though ‘Freedom’ sounds so organic and well - free!
R: Music is part of my expression, so that’s fully within my control. If it feels forced, I just step away and revisit when I feel it’s right.
EQ: In today’s climate, the importance of self care is crucial. What do you do to take care of yourself?
R: So crucial! I make extra time for everyday things like skincare, brushing my teeth, etc. Then eating well, drinking lots of water, writing, going for walks or bike rides, working out, talking with family & friends plus the occasional manicure and pedicure (laughs).
R: I think it’s a multitude of things that anyone adulting goes through, dealing with the responsibilities that you can’t always avoid like bills, work, etc. Being faced with certain realities can definitely deplete that youth but I think it’s where strengthening your mindset plays a massive part. Health is true wealth. That’s mental as well as physical, so it’s just important to find what helps you and find a new sense of youthfulness.
EQ: Your musical journey began young.. How would you say your attitude towards creativity has changed throughout the years? What’s the same, what’s different?
R: I just go with my gut. I guess it’s changed throughout the years because I learned from my mistakes. But I’m bound to make more and I’m excited to learn from those too.
EQ: If you could be remembered for one thing and one thing only, what would it be?
R: Staying true to who I am.
EQ: Finally, what does 2021 have in store for you Rasharn? Could you let us in on an EQUATE Exclusive?
R: A lot more music. Hopefully live performances too. Maybe a body of work, let’s see! (Laughs)
Check out ‘Freedom’ below..
YouTube/RasharnPowell
Stream ‘Freedom’ HERE
Keep up with Rasharn Powell on socials
Instagram: @rasharnpowell