First Listen: Raghd's ‘Side Effect’ and ‘Bitches I Hate’

Raghd is a fiery, organic trailblazer whose cares in the world cease to exist when she steps into the booth. She has firmly established herself as a key figure in Stockholm’s alt scene, where people have grown tired of rules and their new aim is to rebel. Times are changing, and Raghd is one of many who are pioneering that movement from the very front.

Witty and oozing with confidence, New Wave Magazine speak to her about her two newest releases ‘Side Effect’ and ‘Bitches I Hate’, the influences behind these, the importance of creative freedom and more. Also, whilst witnessing that star-quality demeanour that signals she has the ability for commercial success and but also to others that life is something to grasp and pursue as she details through her music.

Initial Reaction 

Listening firstly to ‘Side Effect’, you’re instantaneously introduced to Raghd’s personality; smooth and bossy, you become obsessed with her character. It’s sharp and well-instrumented, signalling a track that is full of bounce and flow. It spreads a positive message of being yourself and owning who you are.

Raghd talks about how she was living the “Hannah Montana” lifestyle at this point, making music, receiving fan mail, and about to go on tour, but all the while still having to take academic exams. But music has stuck with her since birth. She knows it's good for her and that it works, so whatever else she has going on, music remains the underlying component which drives her psyche. 

Speaking on the track, she said: “Side Effect is heavily inspired by Miami bass, my younger self's wishes and basically prioritising music over studies when given the opportunity.”

Although ‘Bitches I Hate’ emulates similarities with ‘Side Effect’. The track is abrasive, poignant and altogether playful. It opens with a sample from Jamal Smith’s iconic “wack!” rant, then sporadically moves into bars and harmonies that oscillate between erratic and personal.

“I’ve always had a problem with men trying to tell me what and how to do things", she explains. "The song is basically about different encounters I’ve had with men not minding their own business and acting crazy around me” 

She aims to impress, and experimentation is key in her work. She sees opportunities as endless and never wants to waste a minute crafting her next anthem. 

Visuals

‘Side Effect’ is also delivered with a tantalising music video which feels incredibly modern. It almost mimics a cartoon. It’s glitchy, uncanny and full of wondrous, bold colours which dominate your screens. The amount of things going on reflects the jumble of ideas that have set up shop in Raghd’s mind. 

Explaining about the collaborative process, she said: “It wouldn’t have been the same without the people around me who encourage me to stay authentic. I’m truly blessed to feel this safe expressing myself. I think we were able to make something great because we’re not motivated by fear. It’s inspiring to work with people with different experiences and share the same goal: to create something we’re proud of.” 

Raghd brings the fun back to music videos. No hands tied, no cronies in black suits telling her how it’s done, just herself and the people who inspire her. She trusts her gut and shows her teeth, no damage done. 

“Act, act, act! Have fun, laugh, even cry if you have to", she sums up rather easily. Then she says, "let it go". Raghd explains, "That’s the most important part of my process. Only then do I feel like I’ve conveyed my art authentically.” 

Final Thoughts

Both tracks, even though they are short, are a break from the madness of the world. There is so much going on that drains us, makes us worried, fills you with dread; but these tracks feel like a breath of fresh air. They halt this endless cycle for a small amount of time, letting you recharge to a point where you look at life in a different perspective. 

Take advice from Raghd: Be free. You dictate your own life. 

Raghd leaves us with this: “I hope I leave something bigger than me behind. I wanna see how it plays out - the energy I put out is the energy I’ll receive. And I’m so thankful for everyone who listens.

“I sincerely hope that hoes are mad at you for being that bitch.”

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