Sam Roman is, undoubtedly, one of the coolest musicians on the scene. Better known by his stage name, RØMANS, he has penned songs for some of the biggest artists in the world, including Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys and Disclosure, and has been signed to Jay-Z’s record label, Roc Nation, since 2014.

Flash forward to 2017, and RØMANS is showing us what he’s made of. One of his latest tracks, “Love Is The Beast”, was originally written for Kanye’s The Life of Pablo, however, when it didn’t feature, RØMANS decided to release it himself alongside UK rapper Avelino, and turn it into an absolute smash. Continuing this theme, RØMANS has just released his newest track “Happy Love”, and it’s a banger. Mixing R&B and pop, the track is a groovy and soulful sensation, showcasing his stunning vocal range and masterful production techniques.

Taken from his third EP “Automatic”, which is available now, it is hard not to be blown away by the North Londoner’s talent. In between repeatedly blaring out his new tracks, we sat down with the multitalented artist to find out all about him.

How did you first get into creating music?

I played throughout school and wrote songs. My first real experience making music was using Fruity Loops and making grime tracks. I then got signed when I was 16 and ended up working with loads of big pop writers and producers.

Who would you say are your main musical influences?

The Beatles have always been my favourite band and the only one I’ve consistently listened to my whole life, but I’ve been influenced by a huge range of different genres and artists.

You’ve penned tracks for some amazing artists. What is your creative process when it comes to songwriting?

It really depends who I’m working with and how much of an input or vision they have. No two sessions are ever the same. Sometimes you start with a really basic chord structure that sounds shit on its own but then evolves into something amazing. Sometimes you can put down a beat and melody and without trying you’ve done 90% of the eventual production.

What came first – learning how to write amazing songs or learning how to become an incredible producer?

Definitely writing. I think when you sing and especially when you play a few instruments, it’s a natural progression from singing other people’s songs to coming up with your own. I’m still to this day a lot less confident in my production abilities than I am of my writing skills.

Can you tell us about your new “Automatic” EP?

It was a really good experience for me because I moved out of Rak Studios, a legendary studio in NW London and built a small room in my garden. It was the first time I’ve made an EP by literally sitting on my own for a few weeks and working. I think it really works as an EP but as usual for me it’s a very eclectic mix of styles. I think that’s really important, especially if your someone who makes all your own music, it’s a chance to think outside the box and approach every song differently.

If you had to choose, what would be your favourite track on it?

I think “Stranger Things Have Happened”. I had a different version of it which I spent a long time chipping away at. I knew that something wasn’t sitting well with it so I literally started again and produced the new version in a day.

What artist on the scene right now would you most like to work with?

I would love to work with Childish Gambino, I really loved his last album. I also love Lemon Twigs. Because I spend most of my time writing for others, I’ve been really lucky and got to work with a lot of my favourite artists. I love people who think differently, I think that’s what made me chose those two names off the top of my head.

What else do you have in store for 2017?

Loads of music making in different forms. As usual I’ve got a full diary for months on end and loads of cool people booked in. I just want to keep being as spontaneous as possible. I already have a few cool ideas for what’s next for me and want to explore those and get them out soon. Also a few cool collaborations coming!

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