Meet Francis Macharia | Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Francis Macharia aka Roman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Roman, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
In the music industry, one thing that outsiders might not realize is the sheer amount of behind-the-scenes work and technical intricacies involved. It’s not just about having a great song idea and putting it out there. There’s a whole process behind it that can be quite labor-intensive and detail-oriented. From creating the track to mixing and mastering, or finding and hiring an audio engineer, there are numerous steps involved before even releasing the song. Once the song has been released, you would think that the work is done, but in reality the work is just beginning. Especially for independent artists, it often means wearing many hats – producer, singer, rapper, audio engineer, content creator, marketer, and more. The glamorous side of the music industry that most people see is just the tip of the iceberg; the real work happens backstage.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Let me share a bit more about my journey in the world of music. What sets me apart, I believe, is my relentless commitment to growth. When I listen back to the music I created years ago, I’m amazed by the evolution I’ve undergone as a musician. My beats have matured, my lyrical prowess has sharpened, and my audio engineering skills have become more refined.

However, reaching this point wasn’t a walk in the park. It required unwavering perseverance. Whenever faced with challenges, whether technical or creative, I refused to give up. If something seemed beyond my grasp, I’d either step back and approach it from a different angle later on, or I’d immerse myself in tutorial videos, teaching myself the necessary skills.

Through this journey, the most significant lesson I’ve learned is the power of self-belief. I used to think that confidence was a prerequisite for embarking on new ventures. But over time, I’ve realized that confidence isn’t something you start with; it’s something you cultivate through experience. This realization has emboldened me to fearlessly explore new musical territories, making success all the more attainable.

What I want the world to understand about me is that I’m not just another musician churning out tunes. I bring a wealth of unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Just as I’ve been inspired by those who came before me, I aspire to inspire the generations that follow. My journey isn’t just about personal success; it’s about leaving a meaningful mark on the musical landscape and nurturing the talents of tomorrow.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was in town for a week, I’d make sure they got the full Atlanta experience – both the touristy stuff and the local hangouts.

First stop? Toco Hills – it’s been my go-to spot since I moved here. We’d hit up Iron Age for some epic Korean BBQ, or we could swing by Salaryman for their amazing Japanese food and cool anime vibes. And of course, we can’t miss Pao Pao Ramen Bar for their mind-blowing Dirty Taro Bubble Tea.

For a bit of offbeat fun, I’d take them to the Atlanta Balloon Museum – it’s interactive and unique. A must-see while the attraction is still in town.

And while we’d definitely make sure to check out the big-name attractions like the World of Coke and the Georgia Aquarium, I’d also want to show them the more local side of Atlanta. We’d wander through Little Five Points, explore Ponce City Market, and maybe even catch a movie at Atlantic Station.

With all of these unique and eye-catching places, they’d have a hard time forgetting Atlanta.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my dear friend and colleague, Jason Ogbomoh (Luh O). Jason wasn’t just a remarkable friend, but also a talented musician and a dedicated teacher. Together, we initiated a vibrant music club during our days at The University of Georgia and later pursued careers in education. His influence on me, particularly in the realm of music, was profound and enduring. However, it saddens me to share that Jason’s life was cut short tragically due to gun violence in November 2023. His memory continues to inspire me, and those left behind continue to carry his passion and spirit every day.

I would also like to shout out Princess Dikko, my partner and best friend. I would not have been able to do half the things I have without all her love and support. She’s been my number one fan and supporter since I started and remains so.

Lastly, I’d like to shout out all my musician friends that I’ve collaborated with in the past! Antonio Sifuentes (DJ VISION), Devin Black (WeatherJester), Desmond Anderson (SherodthaGod), Princess Dikko (KonbiniKuro), Christine Chambers (T.W.I.N.) and so many more. Thank you all for being part of this journey with me!

Website: https://linktr.ee/itsroman14

Instagram: @itsroman14

Twitter: @REALitsroman14

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQfv2LJrHH5IqXdcFHMmO6g

Image Credits
Princess Dikko