German multi-instrumentalist RIPL returns to our ears with his second single, EMA, out now.

Oozing RIPL’s soaring, impassioned vocals and delicate strummed guitar melodies, EMA is a truly infectious slice of rich folk-pop. Reflecting on those times in life when you try desperately to make yourself heard, it’s an emotion-strewn creation, with a sound akin to Frank Turner, showcasing RIPL’s enigmatic songwriting ability.

Since moving to Scotland in 2014, RIPL has been making a name for himself on the live circuit, charming crowds at open mic nights across the country. RIPL taught himself to play guitar at the age of six and has since become the first German musician to record at the renowned Abbey Road studios in 2011. He has also recorded this new single alongside Grammy Award nominated producer Adam Coltman (Ed Sheeran).

EMA is now available.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with RIPL about the new release, motivations, challenges and much more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?

I’ve always been obsessed with the British music scene. During my teenage years, I was a founding member of The Shme()gma, who became the first German band to record in London’s renowned Abbey Road Studios, but four years ago I got the chance to come and stay in the UK to find new inspiration for my solo material.

How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?

I’ve had a passion for music since my earliest days – I was starting to play guitar at 6. It really took off around ten years ago though, when I did my first EP with a band. Since moving to Scotland, I’ve grown my following by playing open mic nights.

Who or what influences your playing and/or writing?

Really, I only listen to a handful of bands. Green Day, Oasis, R.E.M., some Red Hot Chili Peppers – and The Beatles, obviously.

Also what motivates you to keep going?

It’s these raw, sweaty gigs – there’s nothing like playing three odd hours in a crowded pub to make you feel alive.Getting the chance to work with all the incredibly talented other artists, musicians and producers I’ve met in the UK really invigorates me as well, it’s been amazing.

Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?

Getting to work on new material with a Grammy-nominated producer was a game changer for me.Suddenly, I was going from a folky kind of song like ‘Of Course I Can’ to a full band sound with all these instruments on it.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CD’s? MP3’s?

I’m a CD man myself. First one I ever bought was ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ by Wheatus – it’s been quite a journey from there.

How about this one… Do you prefer Spotify? Apple music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

There’s so many choices now! I try not to limit myself to one outlet, there’s good things going on everywhere you look.

Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?

My goal is to reinvent this dull, old image most people have of a singer songwriter. I also enjoy writing my songs without the help of an army of co writers. The same is true in the studio, I play all instruments myself rather than having a number of session musicians coming in doing the job while I’m playing FIFA18.

Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?

I’m on almost every music platform you can think of. I also have my own website called riplmusic.co.uk. But I prefer meeting the people after a gig and to have a chat about my performance or music in general.

Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?

Thank you for having me and don’t forget to tell me what you think of my new single, EMA, out now.