There is a captivating new voice in the world of music that you need to know about—Raphaela, a multicultural singer and songwriter whose songs blend romance, self-discovery, and emotional depth. When you listen to her music, it feels like receiving a love letter to the most personal moments in life, where longing, self-exploration, and romance intertwine in a beautifully intimate way.
You will find that Raphaela’s journey began in Beirut, Lebanon, where she was raised in a home filled with musical richness. With a mother who was a professional opera singer and a father whose daily routine included listening to classical music, your environment might seem to have been perfectly designed for a future musician. Raphaela started writing songs at just 14 years old, and she recorded her first EP in Lebanon. Later, her move to Ottawa, Canada, allowed her to further develop and refine her craft, introducing new elements to her evolving sound.
As you explore Raphaela’s music, you will notice how it reflects life’s dualities—the interplay between beauty and heartbreak, uncertainty and hope. This emotional complexity is evident in her previous releases, such as Fifth Street, South of France, Happy Endings, and Be My Hero. Each song captures those feelings with a delicate yet powerful touch, inviting you to connect with the universal experiences of love, loss, and growth.
Raphaela’s latest single, Leave Him First, offers a fresh perspective on heartbreak. You can hear the sorrow and sadness, but also the promise of something better just beyond the pain. It acts as a bridge, setting the stage for her debut EP. This collection promises to take you on a journey through love, now with newfound warmth, optimism, and a hint of dreamy nostalgia.
When you probe her music, you will find that Raphaela doesn’t just sing about love—she explores it from every angle, with honesty and sensitivity. Her multicultural background adds layers to her sound, making it rich and emotionally resonant. Whether you’re seeking music that touches your heart or inspires a deeper understanding of relationships and the self, Raphaela’s songs might become the soundtrack to those moments in your life.
By following her story and listening to her creations, you connect with the story of a young artist who brings together diverse influences and heartfelt lyrics to offer something truly special. Raphaela invites you to experience music where romance, self-discovery, and emotional depth are not just themes but the very fabric of her artistry.
What first got you into music?
My mom is an opera singer, so I don’t remember a time when music wasn’t part of my life. She put me in music lessons such as piano and vocals from a young age, so music is a language I’ve always spoken. However, the game changer for me was when I taught myself to play guitar at 13 and wrote my first song.
How would you describe the music you typically create?
The music I create is a blend of romantic, introspective pop with a cinematic edge. At its core, it’s storytelling through melody rooted in emotion, self-discovery, and the complexities of love. I gravitate toward themes that explore vulnerability, personal growth, and the kind of quiet strength it takes to heal or walk away. Sonically, it’s often dreamy and evocative, with lyrics that aim to feel both personal and universal. I want listeners to feel like they’re reading a letter I never sent or hearing the soundtrack to their own story.
Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
I’ve performed at venues such as the Palace Club in Ottawa, where I opened for R&B artist Johnny Drille; the Shaw Centre, where I performed the Canadian national anthem for an MMA event; and the EY Centre for a feature performance at the National Women’s Show in Ottawa. My next performance is on Saturday, June 28, at the Bronson Music Theatre, opening for JoeBoy. This location is one I’ve always dreamt about performing at and that I’m sure will become my favorite venue!
In your opinion, how do artists in this industry stay on top of the game when faced with so much competition? What is the secret to making yourself noticed?
Talent is what gets you started, but it’s definitely not the only thing that leads to success—especially in today’s music industry. Consistency, persistence, and the ability to keep developing your skills are just as important. There are so many talented people out there trying to do the same thing, so you really have to stand out—not just with your voice, but with your vision, work ethic, and ability to adapt and grow. You have to be your own manager, videographer, social media strategist, lavel… everything, in order to stand out.
What can we expect from you within the next 6 months? Any releases planned? Future gigs?
I have an EP that is complete and ready to go. I will be releasing singles off it that I’m super excited about. I see this EP as the ‘real’ start to my career, and it will showcase who I really am as an artist and where I’m going.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
If I’m singing in the shower, then it’s definitely going to be The Phantom of the Opera soundtrack, as it’s my favorite musical of all time!
What would be the ideal food to have cooked for you on a date night?
The way to my heart would be a medium-rare filet mignon steak and fries! You can’t go wrong with that combo.
Do you have a cherished childhood teddy bear or other stuffed animal sitting on your bed at home?
No, but my entire childhood bedroom is still decorated with all my Barbies and Barbie horses, and the walls are pink. It feels like stepping into a time capsule every time I visit home.
If you could ask your future self one question, what would it be?
“Are we happy?”
What do you think the greatest invention has been?
Air travel—I find it fascinating how you can be in one place one moment and, just hours later, be somewhere with a completely different climate, culture, and landscape. It never stops feeling a little bit like magic.