Formula Indie Sessions : Interview with R Louis
Introduction of the project
My project is the fusion of Latin urban rhythms—mambo, reggaetón, dembow, and Afro-Colombian flavours—mixed with my own life experience as an Afro-Colombian living in London. My music represents rhythm, identity, resilience, and the voice of my community. I call my sound Saoco Worldwide: energía, sabor y verdad.
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
I remember being a kid in Buenaventura, hearing the drums, the marimba, and the street music that filled the neighbourhood. The rhythms felt alive—like they were speaking directly to me. That energy stayed with me forever.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
It started as a way to express myself during difficult moments. Music became my escape, my therapy, and later my purpose. When I arrived in London, I realised that my story and my sound were unique—and that pushed me to turn passion into career.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
My current project represents my journey from Colombia to the UK. It’s about highlighting my Afro heritage, telling real-life stories, and giving a new flavour to the Latin urban scene. It’s also a way to inspire the diaspora: to show that no matter where you come from, you can rise.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
My sound is explosive, Caribbean, and full of saoco. It mixes Afro-Colombian rhythm with reggaeton, mambo and dembow, creating a style that hits hard but still feels melodic and cultural.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
I learned that authenticity is more powerful than perfection. When I stopped trying to sound like others and leaned into my roots, everything changed.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
I work mainly with FL Studio and Pro Tools, plus live percussion elements like congas and drums to keep the Afro flavour present. Headphones, my mic, and my notebook never leave my side.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
I enjoy artists who mix culture and energy—people pushing their own lane. Afro-Latin independent artists especially inspire me because they represent resilience and creativity.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
Growing up in Buenaventura and then moving to London shaped everything I am. I’ve seen struggle, migration, racism, resilience, culture, joy… all of that goes into my lyrics and energy. My vision is to represent my people and open doors for the next generation.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
I want them to feel strength, celebration, identity, and empowerment. Whether it’s a party track or a reflective one, I want listeners to leave with more energy than they came with.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Patience and consistency. Success is a marathon, not a sprint. Music taught me to believe in myself even when nobody else sees the vision yet.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
Dream venues: O2 Arena in London, Madison Square Garden in New York, and Viña del Mar in Chile.
Dream festivals: Afro Nation, Reggaeton Beach Festival, Wireless.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d choose Tego Calderón. He represents Afro identity with pride and authenticity. His impact on the culture is something I deeply respect.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music?
Spotify: R Louis
YouTube: R Louis
Instagram: @king_rlouis
TikTok: @king_rlouis
All Platforms: R Louis
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
To take Saoco Worldwide: tour internationally, collaborate with major artists, uplift Afro-Latin culture, and build opportunities for young Latin creators in the diaspora.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
That I come from real experiences, real struggle, and real joy. I want them to see that my art is honest, powerful, and made with purpose. I want them to feel connected to my story.
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