Music Interview South Africa

#MusicExchange: Damian Roos

Damian Roos is a graduate of UCT's College of Music who, at the age of 25, is having a stellar start to 2022 with his debut single Every Time I Think of You - a song about love and lament - chart on local radio in Cape Town (currently at number 17 on the top 40).
#MusicExchange: Damian Roos

Roos looks to the masters in R&B and soul for inspiration and models his work around the vocal prowess of the likes of Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, Luther Vandross and The Clark Sisters.

I caught up with this rising star last week:

What is your job description?

I am a passionate singer-songwriter and a vocal coach.

What does music mean to you?

It’s my way of life.

My music is about…

Love in all forms.

What is your motto?

Take the chance.

Fame is about…

A large amount of people being familiar with who you are.

Retirement will happen when…

Retirement? What’s that?

I don't do…

Parties.

I would love to co-write with…

Adele and Bruno Mars.

Where do you go for inspiration to create?

I go to my practice room at home and I begin the creative process and turn those thoughts, emotions or events into a song.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

Being in the recording booth.

The song you must do in every show:

A definite must perform is Every Time I Think of You - my current radio hit.

My heroes:

Whitney Houston. Listening to her and watching her deliver that incredible vocal gift is a joy.

My style icon:

Chad Saaiman, a sharp dressed man.

What is your most treasured possession?

Definitely my phone. I do everything there.

It’s your round. What are you drinking?

A virgin everything. I don’t consume alcohol.

Dream gig to do:

Headlining the North Sea Jazz Festival.

Nicknames:

Dimples - blame my dad.

If you were not a musician, what would you do?

No other jobs come to mind.

Pick five words to describe yourself:

Anointed, smart, quiet, goofy and kind.

What are you streaming?

The Clark Sisters, Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, Burt Bacharach and Hal David.

Greatest movie ever made:

Sparkle (the 2012 remake).

What books are you reading?

I’ve read many books as a result of my academic writing at university, so nothing right now.

What song changed your life?

I’m Looking For A Miracle by the Clark Sisters. That song has changed my life in ways that I can’t believe. Many of my recent successes have been due to that song - graduating from UCT and my overall confidence in everything I do.

Who do you love?

Myself, family and friends.

What is your favorite word?

Oh my word.

Top of your bucket list:

To release more music this year.

Your greatest achievement:

Graduating from UCT.

What do you complain about most often?

Noise of any kind.

What is your fear?

Experiencing writer's block. That is a creative’s worst nightmare - not being inspired or able to create.

Happiness is…

Minding your business and continuing to do you.

On stage, I tend to?

Close my eyes to really connect with a song.

The best life lesson you have been taught:

Become clear about who you are.

What has been your favorite journey so far?

Getting my Drivers’ License. Nothing has been more liberating.

Do you do charity work and if you do, what do you do?

Not currently, but I’m always eager to share knowledge with those in need.

Wishes and dreams:

To have a successful music career, with the focus being on my passion. I would like to touch the hearts of as many people as possible through my music and for me to reach my full potential.

Social media links:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube |
Apple Music | Spotify

About Martin Myers

Co-owner at Triple M Entertainment, founder Music Exchange, manager Sipho Hotstix Mabuse
Let's do Biz