Franz Von: Rapid Fire

Interview

How did growing up in Jamaica shape your early musical influences?

My love for music was sparked from growing up in Jamaica with an abundance of music to soak up and the excitement of seeing how hyped up and responsive people were when certain songs were played. I realised from early on that some songs reflected everyday life and people could relate. It made me know that music was important.

Tell us about your journey to Sheffield, and how has the city impacted your sound?

Moving to the UK, to Sheffield, as a teenager was a massive culture shock. The cold weather, the food, the landscape was a lot to take in. Discovering new music genres including hip hop, jungle and even techno rave music was mind blowing to me at the time. I gravitated to hip hop as it was so relatable and it fuelled my love for music even more.

Witnessing the growth of grime, UK garage and Sheffield's bassline scene combined with the city's DIY underground culture, has had a definite impact on my sounds. I'm inspired by the hard work, dedication and do it yourself attitude by artists and musicians in the Sheffield music community.

Your music blends jazz, afrobeat, and electronic elements—how do you approach combining genres?

Blending genres is one of the creative challenges that really gets me excited, I love the process of working out the transitions and really pushing the limits. I worked closely with Chris Mayall (producer, musician, band mate and good friend) on my latest album 'Take What You Want' and we have a similar outlook to creating music. We both love fusion influenced music and take inspiration from different genres. We basically try to mash together whatever feels right at the time, wherever the energy is high and then work on it until it makes sense.

What themes or emotions do you aim to communicate through your music?

I aim to emphasise themes of empowerment and taking ownership. I want the audience to feel a sense of community, togetherness and be inspired to pursue their dreams

Which of your releases are you most proud of, and why?

I'm really proud of my latest release 'Take What You Want'. This is extra special for me as it's my debut album. I've had self doubts about writing an album for so long and to be able to overcome those negative feelings and create something is one of the best feelings of achievement.

This album was a collaborative effort with one mindset, and I'm proud to have been able to bring so many people from my community, incredible musicians and artist together on this project. Each person's input and contribution was invaluable and you can hear and feel it in the music.

If someone is seeing you live for the first time at Soho Jazz Festival, what can they expect?

Expect a high energy dynamic experience with a focus on fusion rhythms and powerful lyricism.

Prepare to participate.

In forthe Full Jam?

Live Capacity Tracker

LiVe Capacity Tracker
Line Bg
ImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImage
ImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImageImage
Line Bg