Photo Credit: Daniel Prakopcyk (@daniel)
By Alissa Arunarsirakul // March 20, 2020
Having only released his first single last year, it’s quite incredible how much Christian Paul has already grown in such a short time. It’s no secret that Paul is on a mission to fuse together both the old school and new school soundscapes to create something much greater. The rising pop/R&B artist has been hard at work on his debut self-titled EP for nearly two years, and now he’s finally ready to unveil this masterpiece to the world.
On his debut self-titled EP, Christian Paul shared,
“I’m so excited to announce that my debut EP is finally here. It’s been a long time coming… I’ve been writing for this project for like, almost two years now. You guys have been so patient and shown so much support and love ever since I released ‘When Love Don’t Love You Back,’ my first single. Honestly, many of you have been around even before then, which is crazy to think about. All of that to say, it’s finally here. The EP is here.”
To celebrate the long awaited release of his new music, we recently chatted with Christian Paul about Elvis Duran, musical influences, and of course, his debut self-titled EP.
HH: You started your music career at the young age of 12. Did you expect to be as successful as you are today?
CP: I used to dream of signing a record deal, not knowing that it would actually happen one day. Though there is so much more I want to accomplish, I definitely didn’t expect to be traveling, writing/recording music, and performing like I am today!
HH: It’s so notable that your music doesn’t neatly fall under one genre. Which artists influence your captivating sound?
CP: This is such a great question! There are so many artists that have influenced my development as an artist and songwriter over the years, but Usher, D’angelo, Maxwell, and Prince are at the top of the list!
HH: What’s your overall message behind your debut EP?
CP: The overall message behind my debut EP is that life is a journey that will take you through highs and lows; seasons of romance and seasons of heartbreak; seasons of tears and loss and seasons of happiness. Each song on the EP is an expression of emotions felt throughout different phases of my life.
HH: Can you describe every track on the EP in one word?
CP: Hmmm… If I had to choose one word to describe every track of the EP, it would be “heartfelt.” Each song is written and delivered sincerely with passion behind every word.
HH: Do you have a favorite track off the EP?
CP: My personal favorite song off the EP is a track called “Bad Manners.” It was the most fun and challenging to write because it pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I have a feeling it might be everyone’s favorite!
HH: We’ve gotta ask… How was it meeting Elvis Duran?
CP: Meeting Elvis was an absolute honor. I walked in anticipating a fun-loving guy who is passionate about music, and he far exceeded my expectations! He is so down to Earth and hospitable. It is still pretty surreal that he loves my music as much as he does! I am incredibly thankful to have his support!
HH: If you could collaborate with anyone in the music industry, who would you pick?
CP: My answer changes frequently! If I could collaborate with anyone in the music industry, I would pick Poo Bear. He is absolutely exceptional at what he does. I’d love to write and record a song with him!
HH: What are your three hidden hits?
CP: My three hidden hits by rising artists that I love are “Flashing Lights” by Daecolm, “Whoa” by Snoh Aalegra, and “Someone to Watch Over Me” by Col3trane!
The Hidden Hits 