If you appreciate quality music that showcases vulnerability, creativity, hope, honesty and a perspective on the overall human condition then checking out Rchaoui will be well worth the time. Rchaoui, also known as Ryad Chaoui, is an artist based in northern Virginia. Not only is he a singer but also a CEO, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and audio engineer just to name a few of his titles. He will be launching a major project in February which will be a three single release of: we all belong, punk, and gabby’s song. Each single provides insight into Rchaoui’s mind, emotions and how he navigates life.
We all belong
Each song provides unique insight that takes the listener on a meandering journey into Rchaoui’s mind. We all belong opens with an acoustic guitar before Rchaoui comes in with his vocals. The song provides an interesting ambiance which includes an assortment of orchestral instrumentals in the background. The chorus provides enthralling auto-tune effects which is combined with incredible instrumentals that add to the overall complexion of the song. It touches on issues of self-confidence, anxiety of never fulfilling expectations and the inability of others to empathize with his struggles. The song provides a semblance of hope in its sober tone by stating “we all belong” and everyone has a place in society.
He touches on acknowledging our similarities and not allowing criticism to deter us long-term. The music itself offers impressive aesthetics and tranquility while listening to it. It’s a single that reminisces of driving down a long winding road late at night in deep thought. We all belong is a great single that sets a tone for the other singles. It offers a nice preview of what’s in store.
Punk
Punk and gabby’s song are two different songs; though related. Gabby’s song serves as a continuation of punk. As excellent a piece as we all belong is on its own, punk provides an expansion of it conceptually and musically. It touches on a slew of different topics throughout which include: struggles with commitment; pursuit of happiness and goals; relationships; faith; doubt; and a myriad of other topics that encapsulate what he defines as the nightmares that keep him up at night.
The song ends with him repeating the line, “the last goodbyes” which can take on a variety of different meanings. A last goodbye commonly references a farewell to loved ones who will pass away. It’s always difficult to say goodbye; however a last goodbye is considered one of the most painful experiences a human being can go through especially in regards to the death of a loved one.
To Be Human
The line before states the pain he feels inside is more human than last goodbyes provides a hint at the overall meaning. More human can mean more thoughtful, more real, more tangible, but I believe the definition in this case means more complex. The anguish he feels in his nightmares – which juxtaposes despair and hope – is more complex, more contradictory, more imperfect than last goodbyes which are feelings of pure sorrow after a loss. Rchaoui’s thoughts and nightmares are complex, contradictory, and muddled which – as a result – make him most human. Ironically and likely intentionally these are also the last discernible lines Rchaoui iterates before Gabby sings the final single.
Gabby’s song
Gabby’s voice provides an opulent opening to gabby’s song as it continues the chorus of punk. The difference is the last few lines which says, “The pain I feel on the inside/No longer can I hide behind the last goodbyes/I’ll see you tonight“. Though the overall tone of the lines remain sober, it provides a glimmer of hope and assurance. Per Gabby’s vocals, it states no longer will Rchaoui hide behind the comfort and finality of last goodbyes. He will move onward and face his nightmares another night.
Yin and Yang of Life
Gabby’s song is not necessarily a happy ending but a very real one. Life is commonly referred to as a roller coaster with many ups, downs, and twists in-between. There cannot be one without the other, happiness cannot exist without despair. Every yin has a yang and the fruits of triumph cannot truly be enjoyed without the pain felt in failure. Rchaoui delivers three singles that delve into his struggles. However, the overall concepts are applicable to any person’s life. Rchaoui delivers a masterful performance through boisterous beats and elegant instrumentals that make for a truly enjoyable experience! Make sure to check him out and support via Rchaoui’s website.
