Visionary award-winning producer, songwriter, and composer Raymond Jones, better known as Ramoni, has set an illustrious track record for crafting hits that resonate globally rooted in his penchant for innovation.
Led by dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ramoni's journey has been sprinkled with collaborations that include chart-toppers like Ckay, Blaqbonez, Blacksherrif, Odomodublack, Ayra Starr, and many more.
With an array of diverse influences shaping his style, Ramoni who has redefined the music landscape has contributed to the expanse of artistic freedom and innovation as member of the creative producer collective POPBOYS.
Winning hearts around the globe with his bold artistry and creativity Ramoni prepares for the launch of POPBOYS as solidifies his status as a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene.
In conversation with Earmilk, he chats about his evolving musical journey, championing the musical freedom, what sets his production style apart and more.
Can you share with us a bit about your musical journey and how you first got started in the world of music production?
I've been playing instruments since I was a kid, I started playing drums in church when I could barely even sit properly around drums. There were older people better than me but nothing stopped me from playing drums. So I picked up a passion for musical instruments at a young age, I started playing the keys too, and worked on those skills for a long time. I think I got the music spirit from church, and also being in the church and university choir. it was the early stage of my growth and the rest is history. I think I like making people happy with my music, that's basically how I started. It has been quite a journey.
Your collaborations have included some big names in the industry like Blaqbonez, Ckay, and Ayra Starr. How do you approach collaboration and what do you think sets your productions apart?
Being in this line of work for a few years has given me the opportunity to collaborate with these very talented artists. My part is the ability to connect with the artist on a level where we can really understand the music together and experiment. I think that's what really set my production skills aside from others, which gives room to truly understand the artist and the kind of music we're making. Before even making the beat, and going to the studio, there's a big part about communication and getting the environment right for the artist. Once the foundation is there, we can work on the music and create right energy.
Winning the Headies award for best rap and alternative albums in 2023 must have been a significant moment in your career. How did you feel when you received that recognition and how has it impacted your journey since then?
Shoutout to the Headies platform and for recognizing creatives that put in the work. Winning the award felt really amazing and fulfilling. You’ve been working so hard and finally, your work is recognized, you're getting recognition from industry people. So getting the award was remarkable for me. It literally put me in a different spot and space and prepared me to do more, work on new songs, collaborate with more people and push the culture, and I am able to add more beautiful music to my portfolio.
Your discography features a variety of styles and stories. Is there a particular project or collaboration that holds a special place in your heart, and if so, why?
Young Preacher in particular holds a special place in my heart. It is the first project I had to give so much of my time and attention. I recall blabonez always giving me the liberty to express myself and show what “Ramoni” is all about. He's as passionate as I am about my work, that pretty much sets the right tone and environment for work.
As a member of POPBOYS, you champion artistic freedom and innovation. Can you tell us more about the collective?
Championing artistic freedom has always been important to me. I don't like to be put in a box, I like the freedom of my creativity. As my family says, I like to have artistic freedom and POPBOYS has been important in allowing me to express that. A few of my closest friends and I created this collective.
I think POPBOYS is about collaboration, expressing yourself in different ways, and not being stuck in a four-wall. It's everybody working on their stuff and putting them out to the world. It's a creative and free space.
What advice would you give to aspiring producers who are looking to make their mark in the industry?
I am still an aspiring producer too you know, so this advice would be for myself and everyone doing what they love out there . Keep going, keep doing what you do, there's no success without hard work, and you can never give up. Keep working and surround yourself with good people, good energy and people with the same goal-driven mindset as you.
As your career continues to ascend, what goals or milestones do you hope to achieve in the coming years?
Basically, I just hope for the very best for myself because looking back at where I come from and now, there's a big difference. I know hard work makes a difference. I am ready for everything that comes my way. I hope to travel around the world, work with people with the same vibe and energy, do amazing stuff, impact the world with my music, change so many things because music has the power to do that, and just do positive things. By the grace of God.
Connect with Ramoni : Instagram
