London-based Nigerian artist PapaRaZzle is making waves with his latest EP, I’m In Paris And I Miss You. Renowned for his eclectic mix of afrobeats, R&B, and soul, PapaRaZzle is captivating audiences once again, this time with a project inspired by a spontaneous creative journey in Paris. I’m In Paris And I Miss You departs from his usual style, infusing vibrant Parisian energy into his music and blending it with his signature sound. We caught up with PapaRaZzle to delve into the inspiration behind this unique EP, the collaborative magic that shaped it, and how his Parisian adventure has redefined his artistic approach.
PapaRaZzle’s latest release is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a sonic postcard from Paris, crafted during a whirlwind creative retreat. The EP, which emerged from spontaneous studio sessions with French producers and long-time collaborators, captures the magic and muse of the Parisian experience. As PapaRaZzle weaves together vibrant afrobeats, soulful melodies, and a touch of R&B, he’s brought us a project that echoes with the heartbeats of love, nostalgia, and artistic synergy.
Can you share more about the spontaneous week in Paris that inspired this EP? What was it about that experience that made you decide to create an entire project around it?
I’ve been to Paris about 2 times before, but this was the first time I didn’t go as a tourist, I went for music, and the energy of the City of Love. Even though I had zero expectations, the result of the trip was beyond my expectations, and the experience was memorable. Nothing was planned, but the people, the reception, and the eagerness to create art inspired this project. It was only right we captured the energy and put it on a record. Shout out to everyone involved.
You worked with a variety of producers both from France and your long-time collaborators. How did these collaborations come about, and how did they contribute to shaping the EP?
In regards to the collabs In Paris-based producers, I met one of the producers (Lisa) on IG, and we always spoke about linking and working together. We finally connected in Paris, and she introduced me to Saan and Racy, the chemistry was unreal. It was truly a beautiful moment. We made about 5 songs in 2 days. The other producers on the project are Nahz Rashid, Jaemally Beatz, and Hbeatpro, this are guys that we’ve built a personal relationship off making music together and appreciating eachother contribution and talent. What’s evident on all on the collabs is our love for music, and the magic we create when we work together.
Each track on the EP seems to tell a different story. Could you walk us through some of the themes and emotions explored in “I’m In Paris And I Miss You”?
The primary theme is human emotions. The songs on the project take us through a series of emotions, and several phases of interpreting and processing those emotions. Personally, I process a lot through music, so naturally my music reflects several emotional states I’ve experienced within me, or through other people. On the project, you’d find Love, Happiness, Sadness, Hopefulness, Excitement, Curiousity, and more, depending on how you connect with it.
Which artists or genres outside of your usual style had an impact on the sound of “I’m In Paris And I Miss You”?
I’d say more genres than artists: Soul Music, Afrobeats, R&B, Alternative music.
Any funny or memorable moments from the recording sessions in Paris that stand out to you?
Hmm, I’d say it’s the expression on everyone’s face in the studio when we were making these songs. We were happy!
Besides the music, what’s your favourite memory or place in Paris that you think everyone should experience?
Ngl, I didn’t get to explore music. Gotto go back for exploration, and I’ll answer this question the next time we talk. lol
How do you feel you’ve evolved as an artist from your earliest works to the present day?
From just experiencing and making music almost everyday for years now, I’d say I’ve been able grown in confidence as an artist, and I’m at a point where I just create whatever I wanna create and say whatever I wanna say, it’s made my creative process very fluid.
What’s the next destination or city that you’re hoping to explore musically or personally?
Got so many places on my mind, but I’ll see where fate take me too next.
If you were taking a spontaneous road trip with friends, what three songs would absolutely have to be on your playlist?
1. TOOT & THE MAYTALS – TAKE ME HOME, COUNTRY ROADS
What are your plans for promoting the EP? Any upcoming tours or events?
Got a show in Paris in November , looking forward to that!
