Jonathan Lobo is a singer-songwriter and musician based in Dubai, who creates gorgeous acoustic tunes, such as the song Magic, also found at the bottom of this interview. If you like what you read, then make sure you check the track out!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a song titled Magic, which we reviewed. What can you tell us about this song and where can it be purchased?
Magic is the first song I wrote in 2021. It is about someone that brought excitement, purpose and inspiration into my life. The song tells a story of two people from the excitement of their first meeting to their individual resulting evolutions. The lyric “5 more minutes” was something she would say all the time. Over time, the context in which those words were said changed, as did the relationship. However, the impact and magic of those words will always remain.
Magic is available on all major streaming platforms as part of my debut EP, Love. You can find it at the link below:
https://td….live/Love
Has the pandemic hindered your work much?
As a full time lawyer, the pandemic actually gave me more time at home and thereby a lot more time to be creative and write music.
What is the writing and recording process like for you?
The songwriting process for me varies. Sometimes it all comes together in one go, and sometimes each element is developed separately.
For Magic, I recorded a demo first verse and chorus with vocals and keys in 15 minutes. With my producer, Aman Sheriff (of Galipolli), we then built on additional layers, added a beat, second verse and bridge, and thereby developed a song structure.
Do you have an EP/album coming out soon?
Magic is part of my debut EP Love that released recently. It’s a collection it songs about love and life.
Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?
Yes, there’s a new EP in the works with inspiration coming from new spaces and maybe featuring collaborations with other artists.
Whereabouts are you based and what is the local music scene like?
I’m based in Dubai, UAE. The local music scene is small but growing with talent. The scene for original music in particular is very small, but there is a growing appreciation for it slowly developing through showcases and open mics.
What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
I’m inspired by music, art, people and the happenings of daily life. The musicians I hang out with on the regular play an influential role in the music I listen to.
Recently I’ve been listening to Rag ‘n Bone Man, Charlie Burg and Caamp. I also like discovering new independent music and you can hear my favourite finds at: https://op…=copy-link
Do you have any tour dates lined up?
I performing at an artist showcase at Kave, Al Serkal, Dubai on the 24th of July 2022 where I’ll be playing live versions of the songs on the EP with a band of talented musicians.
Why do you think people should come and see you live, and what can fans expect from one of your shows?
The live versions of the songs on the EP give them so much personality and feel. I wish to perform them in a way that helps the audience establish a personal connection with the music.
Any last words for the fans?
Thank you for listening, liking and sharing my music. Your support has given me a desire to keep doing this and so there is so much more coming your way.