Meet Philippines-born, Melbourne-raised, Los Angeles-based on-the-rise R&B singer-songwriter, Justerini “RINI” Sandoval. Having amassed over 235 million streams to date, RINI’s signature falsetto and steamy sound has already resonated with millions of music lovers worldwide. We caught up with RINI to talk about music, his recent album release, and much more. Check out the full RINI interview below.
Looking back, when did you first become interested in music? And, how did it all begin for RINI?
It all started when I was in high school back in the Philippines; I was learning guitar because my dad is also a musician. Listening to a lot of rock music made me want to explore music deeper.
Growing up abroad, who did you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
I left the Philippines when I was 13 and was living in Melbourne throughout my whole adolescence. I then moved to Los Angeles to accomplish the goals that I set for myself. My strongest musical influences are legends like Musiq Soulchild, which was my first introduction to R&B… and Frank Ocean who inspired me to write music and tell my own story.
That said, how do you classify your overall sound?
In regards to my overall sound, I find it hard to explain only because I feel like I’m always learning and adapting to the way I see music. In general, I like telling stories that are genuine; either from my own perspective or through someone else’s eyes.
Your latest singles are the ACOUSTIC video versions of “NEED IT” and “FOR DAYS” — Tell me about these particular tracks?
“NEED IT” I wrote it in L.A. when I was staying in Encino with some friends; the song came about because I was missing a particular someone and that’s what the song is basically about. Produced by my good friend Snaggle and Aldwin Cajili.
I wrote “FOR DAYS” around the same time as “NEED IT” and wanted to capture the other side of the story. This song is about waiting on someone and wanting to be around them so bad disregarding the distance. Produced by SAD MONEY and Snaggle.
The songs come courtesy of your 2021 debut Constellations. Talk to me about that album title.
The title Constellations means a lot to me because it was a very important chapter in my life, which gave me the inspiration to tell my story through music. Constellations is relatable to not only me, but others that may be going through similar situations. Basically, the stars in the sky represent people and the constellations represent the connections we make with other people. Everything happens for a reason and how everything somehow is linked together.
https://rini.lnk.to/LiveAcoustic
From a songwriting standpoint, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from everything and everyone.
You’re signed to Warner Records, how did that originally come about?
Whilst I was songwriting in Melbourne, my music got around and circulated in the U.S. I met my really good friend, Bobby, who put my music in front of other people and later on Warner Records wanted to sign me.
https://rini.lnk.to/Constellations
Switching gears here… Longevity, what do you feel it is that will continue to sustain you in music?
I feel like at the moment I’m so hungry to create and showcase my music to the world. Being able to create a deep connection with people through my music is the key to longevity. Putting out genuine music and staying hungry is also a very important part.
What do you want people to get from your music?
I want them to feel how I felt during these specific times, making it super relatable and allowing other people to reminisce through their own past / present / future.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
Right now, I feel like there’s a lot of good R&B coming out with new faces popping up everyday with their own stories to tell. R&B is always evolving, and I want to be part of its growth.
Do you have any additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?
A very big hobby for me is working on cars; specifically classic cars. I one day see myself old, retired and fixing cars with mates that share the same passion.
To date, what have been your greatest career moments, at least thus far anyway?
I think my greatest career moments so far were moments like traveling to a different country to perform for people that love my music. It’s always gonna be a crazy thing to me, knowing that someone on the other side of the planet can know all the lyrics to my music.
What’s next for you, RINI?
I’m currently working on a new sound; I’m excited for everyone to hear it and vibe. I’m gonna be releasing new music very soon, along with other projects and doing more shows around the world.
And, any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?
Thank you for tuning into this interview, and Parle’ Magazine for having me. I hope that this interview reaches you, and inspires people to do what makes them happy. Stay blessed and stay safe.
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