ROGUE VHS - Unique By Design
Emerging UK-based synthwave artist ROGUE VHS recently has been making waves with his latest synth and cyberpunk offerings and collaborations. We caught up with this synth maestro in anticipation of his new single “Unique by Design” and got the scoop behind the name and what drives the atmosphere behind his vision and sound.
What is the story behind “Unique By Design”?
I always try to imagine a physical scenario when fleshing out an idea into a fully-fledged track, and then hone in on specific words and moods I want to express. In this case, during the early writing stage, I could vividly picture someone staring wistfully into the distance on a long car journey. They feel mixed emotions, but primarily nostalgia and uncertainty. The working title of the track was 'Look Back (Unique by Design)' but I decided to cut back to just 'Unique by Design', as I prefer to let the listener judge the emotive qualities of my music for themselves.
How did your artist name, Rogue VHS, come about?
I can't quite remember how the name came about. However, I do know that it was a lightbulb moment. I chose the word 'Rogue' as part of my artist name as I've always felt somehow different from others- something that carries over into my work. After reaching the level of technical competence I strived to achieve for years, I felt I was finally ready to carve out my own space in the music industry. My primary goal as Rogue VHS is to confidently and unapologetically beam my ideas far and wide.
How long have you been producing music and tell us about how you got started and your history?
I first downloaded FL Studio when I was around 14- twelve years ago. Making bleeps and bloops. Dubstep was my first passion, but I wasn't technically proficient. From there I journeyed through the UK underground music scene- D'n'B, Bass House, Grime, then onto Electronica and EDM. My favourite artist then was Feed Me and I'd say he still ranks fairly high on my top ten artists of all time.
After a brief hiatus in 2012 I took my undergraduate degree in Audio Technology and went on to graduate with first class honours from my Master's Degree in Audio Technology. I largely attribute my confidence in my work to that one year of study. I have spent a lot of my free time since then writing music of varying styles- ranging from orchestral music to scoring film and television.
Who are your musical influences and heroes. Is there anything in particular (whether it’s a film, event, occasion, era) that has shaped your creative perspective and stylistic direction.
I'll break this down into the artistic and technical influences. In terms of artistry, I am obsessed with TOOL and draw a lot of inspiration from them--and in particular--their apreggio-orientated style of composition. I'd say they're also my heroes too. In terms of technical influence and production style... it's really a mixture of everything I've ever listened to. I listen to a lot of Djent and D'n'B and so I'm very percussion-orientated, and I love a big kick drum.
As corny as it sounds, I draw most of my inspiration from myself. I have very clear ideas nowadays when it comes to my sonic direction.
What got you into synthwave?
In 2018 I heard VHS Dreams' 'Nightdrive' for the first time. I remember thinking that it perfectly encapsulated a contemporary spin of the 80's sound. At that moment, I decided to pursue my long-dormant goal of establishing myself as an artist.
What direction do you see your music going in the future?
I am very much hoping that I remain on the path I am now- and continue writing synthwave. I have huge respect for artists and bands that are able to innovate while still remaining true to both their roots and their fanbase. I absolutely HATE seeing artists double-back on their fans by releasing wildly different music. If you don't enjoy writing that style anymore, then why not call it quits--or at least--write under a different moniker?
Do you plan on touring (as soon as the pandemic gets under control)? Dream lineup and co-bill?
I only started Rogue VHS in January, so I feel things have moved incredibly fast since then. While I absolutely intend to tour when the world opens up again, I feel I need to establish what my shows would actually sound like. The reason for this uncertainty is that I don't actually play an instrument--rather--I used to DJ frequently. My sets would predominantly be focussed on that.
As for my dream line-up, I love heavy bass music and so I'd love to innovate some kind of mashup between dreamy synths and heavy basslines (I'm not talking about some airy-fairy bass guitar, I mean the super-artificial and surgically-produced rave music that makes your bones shake). In terms of artists, I'd love to play alongside Tonebox and Enei. Perhaps even Savant.
What would you say is the most important thing about being a musician today and what continues to inspire you and drive you?
The most important thing about being a musician today is to be VERSATILE. If you're running solo, you're a one man band. Any skill you think you might need to succeed--chances are-- you're going to have to learn it on your own. That includes self-promotion. I see a lot of people (myself included at times) put learning on hold to focus solely on writing music. That won't cut it anymore. Get grafting.
My inspiration comes often and in small quantities from the little victories and milestones I reach- each time compounding and growing my confidence. Celebrate any win, no matter how small!
What is next for Rogue VHS?
Good question. Not sure even I know the answer to that. Once my profile is more established, I want to spend time on an EP, or perhaps a concept album. I couldn't give you a date, though!
As for the style of my up-coming tracks, expect more of the same. Synthwave and Cyberpunk, with a hint of Spacewave.
Keep yourself up to date with ROGUE VHS and follow him on Spotify and Instagram.
