Hailing from Zimbabwe and currently residing in Brighton, FARI skillfully combines elements of Neo-Soul, R&B, and looping in her music. This results in a captivating and distinctive fusion that effortlessly envelops the listener in a rich tapestry of sound. Her songwriting delves into themes of jealousy, anger, and religion, drawing inspiration from the artistic styles of Kimbra, Bobby McFerrin, and Jacob Collier.
We’ve chatted with FARI on her music, influences, and future aspirations.
When did you first get the music bug?
Music has always been a part of my life. My grandparents were musicians, and so are my dad and sister. It really runs in the family! My first musical memory is seeing my dad play bass at church. I remember thinking, “Wow, he sounds amazing!” I also used to tag along to my sisters’ competitions, and I was blown away by how people appreciated her talent. It made me realize that music can both serve others, like my dad, and be a personal outlet, like it is for my sister.
How would you describe your sound and its direction?
My sound is eclectic and exploratory. I’m still figuring out where it’s headed, but I know it will be about understanding myself better through my music.
Do you start with a clear concept for your songs, or do they evolve over time?
My songs tend to evolve naturally, often inspired by real-life experiences. For example, “In Knots” came about after a long session with my producer and co-writer, George Campbell. We talked about feeling stuck and envious of others who seemed to have an easier path in music. That feeling of being trapped transformed into the song, which we then developed further with producer Jack Wilson (Singer Songwriter from Fickle Friends).
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I hope listeners realize that jealousy, while intense, can be a constructive emotion. It has both upsides and downsides, and understanding the positive side—like how it can fuel ambition and creativity—can be really empowering.
What influences your music?
I draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, but for “In Knots,” a significant influence came from Afro-Caribbean music. George and I dedicated about two hours to researching different Afro-Caribbean drum beats to incorporate into the track. We really wanted to capture that vibrant, rhythmic energy, which was a new and exciting direction for us.
Does it ever become challenging to refine your ideas or know when to stop?
Definitely. George and I often joke about having the “too much gene,” where we keep adding layers until a track feels overwhelming. Thankfully, Jack, our producer, helps us recognize when to step back and know when a song is complete. As perfectionists, we love the process of creation, but we’re learning that sometimes less is more. It’s a continuous journey of finding that balance between creativity and restraint.
Do you have specific reference tracks that guide your productions?
Yes! We create playlists for each song to capture the sound we’re aiming for. You can check my Spotify for those reference tracks; George and I really enjoy putting them together.
What’s your ideal state of mind for creativity like?
My ideal state of mind fluctuates a lot. It can be influenced by feelings of jealousy, sadness, or even happiness. I find I often write better when I’m in a more negative headspace, as it tends to spark creativity.
What supports your ideal state of mind, and what distracts you? Do you have strategies to reach that state more easily?
A clear mind and a sense of direction for the song are crucial for my creative state. Getting there can be tough, but I find it helpful to discuss my feelings and ideas with others first. Hearing different perspectives can really shape what the music should feel like.
What bands have influenced you, and are there any new artists or records that excite you?
I draw inspiration from a wide array of artists, but Kimba is definitely one of my major influences. Her unique sound and ability to convey deep emotion really resonate with me. I had the opportunity to cover one of her songs, and when she reposted it, it felt like a validation of my artistry—a huge moment that boosted my confidence and inspired me to keep pushing my creative boundaries.
I also have a lot of admiration for Brighton-based bands like Call Me Franco and Yakult. Their innovative approach to music and the way they blend genres inspires me to experiment more in my own writing. I love their energy and how they engage with their audience. There’s something special about the Brighton music scene that feels vibrant and supportive, which motivates me to keep honing my craft.
Scarlett Fae and her band also stand out to me. I appreciate her artistry and the way she brings her personal experiences into her music. I’d love the opportunity to share a stage with these artists someday, not only to connect with them but also to reach their audiences. It’s exciting to think about collaborating with musicians who share a similar passion for storytelling through music.
Additionally, I’m always on the lookout for new artists and records that push boundaries. There’s so much talent out there right now, and discovering fresh sounds keeps my creative juices flowing. The evolution of music genres today inspires me to think outside the box and explore new directions in my work.
What are your future aspirations for your art? Any big goals?
My biggest dream is to perform outside the UK, particularly at major festivals like Lollapalooza or Coachella. The idea of sharing my music with such diverse audiences is incredibly exciting to me. I envision standing on a big stage, connecting with people from all walks of life, and creating unforgettable moments through my music. Those festivals represent not just a platform for exposure, but also a chance to be part of a vibrant community of artists and fans who celebrate creativity together.
In addition to performing, I have a deeper aspiration to build a community around my music—one that connects people through the exploration of so-called negative emotions. I believe that feelings like jealousy, sadness, and even anger can be powerful sources of inspiration. I want to show that these emotions can be transformed into something positive, much like the narratives of villains or anti-heroes who undergo significant transformation. By addressing these feelings in my art, I hope to encourage others to embrace their complexities and find strength in vulnerability.
Ultimately, I aim to inspire others to view their struggles as stepping stones towards personal growth. By building this community, I hope to not only connect with my listeners but also create a supportive environment where we can all thrive together.

Follow FARI on:
Instagram | Spotify | Youtube

Nicoleta Raicu

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