Rohat x Streetworld
We had a chat with Rohat to know him better and hear about his plans for the upcoming year.
Photo: Simen Fauske
ROHAT X STREETWORLD
Rohat, from Oslo, Norway, is a talented artist with a unique style. His Kurdish heritage adds an extra layer to his music; taking it to new heights in Norway. His songs are inspired by real-life stories, giving listeners a glimpse into his life journey.
Hi there! How are you doing these days?
Alhamdullilah, thank you for asking. I can’t complain.
How has the start of the year been for you?
It has been very exciting and hectic. There is a lot of fun stuff coming up that we look forward to sharing with those who are listening.
How do you feel about leaving the old year behind, and what are you bringing from last year into this year?
It’s been alright, with so many things happening around the world and at the same time, the amount of responsibility I’ve taken on recently has been tough, but I’ve learned a lot that I’ll carry with me into 2024. I like to see things in a positive light and look forward to better times ahead.
For an unfamiliar listener, how would you describe yourself as an artist and the music you create?
I’m a hairy Kurdish-Norwegian speaking musician with loads of charisma. Check out my music ;)
Can you share a bit about you journey into music, how did it all start?
I always had music around me in the apartment at Haugenstua as a child. Whether it was my sister listening to Shakira or my dad wanting to sing because he had a couple of extra drinks at the bar that day.
It wasn’t until seventh grade in elementary school that I was introduced to music and found my own interest in it. I had a music teacher named Aygun. I remember she encouraged me to sing at the graduation ceremony with a girl in the class who I had a little crush on at the time. Since that day, there have been countless people who have supported me on the journey I’ve been on since then, both as inspiration and motivation to continue.
Where, what, or who do you draw inspiration from for your songs?
Everything comes from the life I lead. What was, what is, and what I envision. The music I create is primarily for me to have something beautiful to listen to when I need it, but I choose to share it with the public. It’s a difficult to pinpoint exactly what inspires me. If I were to describe it in one word, I would say “everything”.
The mucic you create revolves around real-life stories from your own experiences. How does it feel to share such personal lyrics?
It hasn’t been easy, but I find it very rewarding. It sets a good example, and as long as I’m going to continue with music, it wouldn’t be ideal for me not to be genuine.
Do you have any rituals or specific craving when you’re making music?
It must feel natural to be in the studio that day, and I don’t really have any particular craving when I make music. I just need myself.
What is your ultimate dreamcollab?
Not many people know who he is, but in my eyes, he is Belgium and the world’s greatest artist. A Rohat & Stromae song would never fail. One day, inshalla.
What do you do when you’re not making music?
I work on my own youth initiative, spend time with family, and go fishing with the guys when I have time. Otherwise, I’m often traveling the world, living for more inspiration for my music.
What’s the best thing you’ve experienced in your music career so far, and do you have any dreams or goals for the future?
I believe my career highlight in music was when I performed as a guest with Lars Vaular at festivals such as Findings, Over Oslo, Parken, Idyll, and Øya the following year. Large crowds are a blessing, and I envision myself filling venues like Spektrum and many other big stages when I have the capacity for it. It’s going to be fun!
You posted on Instagram that 2024 will be crazier than before, what can we expect from Rohat In 2024? Do you have any cool plans for the near future you’d like to share with us?
My top priority moving forward is the Parkteateret show on June 6th. On the same day as the show, we’re realizing an EP called “Gloria” (Prod. Overseas). After that, I’ll take two or three months in Turkey before I start planning the end of the year in Norway. We have a short film and more exciting things to present then.