When I first stumbled across Rob Murat’s music it could not have been more timely. The song that I remember blasting through my IPOD was called Something Magical and it is a serenade that everyone is entitled too. After further discovery, I learned that this talented man is a philanthropist, which just melted my little heart. Rather than go on and on about a school girl about this amazing singer, check out what he has to say in his own words.
We are all born with gifts and have something that is uniquely ours to share with the world. When did you become fully aware of how you wanted to share your gift with the world?
You know… I’m still figuring out how to best share my gifts with the world. I truly believe that it’s an ongoing process. I love to entertain and give people a feel-good escape if only temporarily or for the length of a song or show. I guess I realized that I truly loved entertaining when, as a little three foot toddler at family functions, it became customary to find myself in the middle of a huge circle of family members, young and old, cheering me on as I did “my thing” on the dance floor. I didn’t land in the spotlight… The spotlight landed on me! LOL
What role did your Ivy League education play in steering you on the path of music? How did going to college and doing something outside of music, add value to your journey?
I wouldn’t say that my Ivy education played a direct role in steering me on the path to music. I was definitely on my way long before I got to UPENN. Besides exposing me to a great network of friends and driven individuals, college served as a four year training session on how to mold my craft into a career. Although my major had nothing to do with music, I have found that the discipline and work ethic I applied to solving problems in class are very similar to the discipline I’ve applied to getting past challenges in entertainment and life. It didn’t hurt that, while at PENN, I connected with a few folks that have also gone on to make an impact in the music world (i.e. John Legend and the fellas of Kidz in the Hall). Another relevant side note is that I was first exposed to professionally recording music in the studio as a member and director of a popular a cappella group on campus.
College was a worthwhile and necessary detour to where I am today and to where I am headed…
For those learning about Rob Murat the artist, please share what kind of messages you enjoy conveying to your listeners?
I like to write songs about the different experiences (personal and otherwise) life throws our way. I enjoy telling stories that most listeners can relate to.
Your lyrics are very warm, sexy and for me seem to speak from so many levels of love – not just the physical romantic love, but the supernatural kind that is everlasting. If you could tell the women of the world one thing, anything in the world, what would that be?
I’d have them listen to the lyrics of my song, “Something Magical.” It’s sort of my personal letter to all women. It says it all. “There’s something magical about you…”
Another thing people need to know about Rob Murat is that you are somewhat of a philanthropist or humanist. Tell us about “Souls” and why you chose this song as a way to pay tribute to those affected by the earthquake in Haiti?
“Souls” is (personally) one of my favorite works to-date. I originally wrote it in support of the charitable initiative a college buddy of mine, Charles Howard, had founded in the Philly area. It addresses the extraordinary will of the human spirit when faced with odds as overwhelming as deep poverty and life’s less-than-fortunate circumstances. I’m a New York native but I am also of Haitian decent. After witnessing the devastation that followed the earthquakes and the adverse effects it had on family and loved ones, it felt only right to rededicate the song to the people of the country. I am grateful that the song was well received and exposed via several media outlets. The intent was for it to uplift. I hope that it continues to do so.
Can we expect more acts like this from you in the near future?
I definitely aim to be of value however I can and wherever it is needed the most. I’ll continue to explore opportunities through music and public means beyond entertainment. In a world where so much is needed, opportunities to be of significant influence are endless.
Speaking of what to expect, you have a new video coming out for your single, “Know…” Please tell us the inspiration behind the story of this song and where we can go to support your upcoming video.
“Know…” is one of those grab-someone-and-hold-them-tight-just-because-and-maybe-make-a-baby-while-you’re-at-it kind of love songs. True Rob Murat fans are very familiar with the song. It represents exactly what I would tell the “the one” when I find her… or when she finds me.
And yes… We recently shot a music video that will be premiering this month! The video’s female lead is talented actress/model, Johanna Botta (former Miss Peru USA and MTV’s Real World Austin cast member). J. Richardson of 7 Day Visa did a great job directing it. A bunch of talented folks were in involved in the production. I’m really excited about sharing it with the world. It will be available online and on major TV networks soon. Stay tuned…
As an independent artist what advice can you offer to other artists that are trying to honor their calling to share the gift of music?
First, as corny as it sounds, I’d tell them not to “try.” Just do it. Second, I’d say master your craft and be ravenously passionate and disciplined about achieving your goals. What was meant to be yours has no choice but to be yours… Go get it.
In your opinion, what has been the key to your success?
Persistence… Passion… Persistence… Practice… Persistence… Networking… Persistence… Hunger… Drive… Discipline… and Persistence. Also, I always say to myself: “By simply setting a goal, you are implying that you believe in your ability to achieve it.” So, I can’t forget the most important… Belief and Faith.
What is the highest vision you have for Rob Murat the artist?
Rob Murat, the artist, is committed to continually introducing himself and his craft to more and more people worldwide through every creative outlet within reach. Only God knows where the rest of the journey will lead, but, I’m holding myself to only one standard… Greatness.
Get More Of Rob Murat In Your EarDrums. Connect with him on Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter. Don’t forget to learn more at his official site.
About Rob Murat
Turning up your volume is common practice when experiencing the craft of singer, songwriter, producer and actor, Rob Murat. Listening to the freshness of this native New Yorker’s sound is reminiscent of icons that paved the way before him, yet pushes forward with a unique flavor that hints at something never quite heard before. With a music video already reaching over 30 million homes nationwide, Rob, an Ivy League grad, has gained a noteworthy boost in popularity. His music is featured on ESPN and TV One broadcasts as well as several nationwide Verizon Wireless radio ads. Radio One’s industry magazine, The Frequency, pegged Rob as an artist “on track to being next!” A true entertainer, Rob’s live show (often featuring a full horn section) is simply amazing! His recent breakthrough performance on Vh1 Save the Music in NYC held par with a string of sold-out shows at venues such as NYC’s Joe’s Pub, S.O.B.’s, Highline Ballroom, and Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center; Philadelphia’s, World Live Café; and Boston’s Paradise Lounge. Rob is also a budding actor with growing credits that include lead roles and featured appearances in commercial ads and TV series. He is also the narrating voice of ESPN’s “What Matters” February 2011 campaign. Perhaps most impressive is Rob’s work as a humanitarian. His ongoing efforts to help raise awareness of the tragic conditions in Haiti have been covered by major media outlets and have garnered significant keynote appearances. With more on tap for 2011, Rob is proving is the kind of versatile artist that not only makes an impact in this ever-changing world of entertainment but also is essential to its survival.
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