R. Flex

1) Tell us something about yourself that your fans may not know.

A: I want to learn how to scream like a metal artist in my songs as well as how to safely do somersaults in my performances.

2) Who are some of the artists who influenced your music style, if any?

A: On ONCE UPON A FLEX, I feel influenced by Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Phil Collins, and Sky Ferreira.

3) How has being from Canada had an impact on your music style, if at all?

A: In Toronto, sometimes we used to get this radio station called WBLK from out of Buffalo. At 9pm on a Sunday night, if you could listen past the static, you’d hear these cool quiet storm tracks from artists dating back to the 70s. That whole vibe of sensuous long tracks meant to bring couples close impacted my music style on ONCE UPON A FLEX. The kind of relationships I sing about, however, are contentious even while romantic.

4) What message did you want to send with your latest EP?

A: The message I want to send with this EP is it’s okay to feel sexy, sad, paranoid, and vulnerable all at the same time, especially when pursuing queer relationships and stabilizing your mental health. Feeling your feelings is okay.

5) Which song did you have more fun making?

A: Don’t tell “Hounds of Hell” this, but I had more fun making “The Fog” because my good friend Kamilah Apong is on it.

6) Does getting recognition from magazines and blogs help you feel like the work is paying off?

A: Absolutely. I want to be a critical darling and a commercial success. Every bit of recognition helps me get closer to that goal.

Follow R. Flex:

Instagram: @flexrflex

Facebook: @flexrflex

Twitter: @flexrflex