Interview With Rue Royal
Give a warm welcome to 20 year old Khari Johnson better known as Rue Royal. A upcoming artist coming out of Maryland with his song “Blue Tints” rising to the top as of recently he’s sure to make it big.
How’d you come up with the stage name “Rue Royal”?
“The name is French for “Royal Street”. Parts of the name come from down in New Orleans where I have family still. I like to say you can loosely turn it to Street Royalty too. It’s just something you’ve probably never heard before. Also go by the name Rue to shorten that up.”
What was it like growing up in Maryland?
“I’d rather say I grew up in the DMV because all parts of it made me who I am, but living here has its benefits and downsides. Same as anywhere else I guess but I’d call nowhere else home. Running around between VA, Baltimore, and DC you get to see and meet people from all walks. Go through situations a lot of people don’t go through. Learn what a lot of people will never understand. Mainly, growing up here instilled a hustle in me like no other.”
What made you want to pursue music?
“Ever since a kid music has always been a big part of my life. From church choir as a kid, to DJ’ing parties during middle school. Produced throughout high school but once I graduated, I started to look towards actually rapping and been taking that seriously for the last couple years.”
Did growing up in DMV effect your style?
“Yeah I’d say so. There’s a specific flow in DMV trap music that’s kinda been stuck with me as long as I’ve lived here. For me personally I’d say I’d more of a lyricist than just talking my shit on a mic so I try to incorporate some of that DMV trap sound with a more thought out approach.”
Did any artist influence your style? If so, who?
“The only artist I can say influenced my style a little would be J Cole. When I heard 2014 Forest Hills Dr. for the first time it started the thought of wanting to actually start rapping. I found something poetic in the way he crafts and executes his songs. I try to take that into my songs in the way of quality over quantity. If I’m going to say something I want to make sure it’s got meaning behind it and reaches who it’s intended to reach, all my fellow hustlers and money makers out there.”
What was it like writing “Blue Tints”?
“To be honest nothing different from any other song. My boy Iam3AM threw a crazy hook on a crazy beat and I just did on it what I do.”
What are your goals before 2020 ends?
“Definitely to get more videos shoot for more of my songs already out. I put out 2 albums and a couple EP’s already this year so you’ll be the first to know s working on a project now to really start off 2021 with a bang.”
