RB Exclusive Interview: CRi

Do you believe in Miracles? Indie-electronic artist CRi, also known as Christophe Dubé, has given us plenty of reasons to believe. Hailing from his hometown of Montréal, CRi shares a burning passion for all things music, expressed through creativity and raw emotion. He relays that message into his atmospheric live performances that are full of vibrancy and connection. We got to speak with CRi ahead of his tour stop at Darkstar in Tempe this Friday, December 15th! Learn more about CRi’s creative process, inspirations, and what makes him believe in miracles.

Congratulations on the start of your new tour and on the release of Miracles on Anjunadeep! We are so excited to see you in December at Darkstar in Tempe. What can fans anticipate from your performance?

Thank you !!!! I will perform a live set. I often prefer to play live because it gives me greater latitude, I can decide the shape of the songs in real time and I love playing the keyboard! I’ll also be accompanied by a very talented VJ, Vino Works. We’ve created a unique atmosphere and I’m very proud of it. 

What is your favorite part about performing live?

I’d say it’s flexibility, but above all the absence of ambiguity. I only play my own songs, I don’t appropriate other people’s music. People only hear my creative universe. 

What was the creative process behind Miracles, and how did it differ from your first album?

The creative process was to seek continuity with my first album Juvenile while exploring other spheres of my inner fort. I really tried to create in different places around the world, letting myself be inspired by the little miracles unfolding before me. 

What emotions do you personally experience when creating your music, and how do you channel those emotions into your compositions?

I’d say I go through a whole range of emotions, from extreme excitement to profound questioning. Generally, once the song is out I let it go, it doesn’t belong to me any more in a sense, which allows me to appreciate it again. 

What was the most challenging track to finish on the new album?

I think it’s “Memories” with Sophia Bel, I have at least 15 different versions of this song, enough to make an album hahah 

Which track was the easiest?

“I Can Make It” was composed and finished in an afternoon, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so inspired by a song. 

You’re a self-taught musician. What first inspired you to pursue a career in music?

I’ve been passionate about it for 10 years now, and I’ve never taken a break. Music is part of me, even if sometimes I’d like to get rid of it and the lifestyle it implies, but it always comes knocking at my door. 

How do you hope your music impacts listeners on an emotional level?

When I create music, my first aim is to express myself and connect with people. I’d say that whatever emotion the listener feels, as long as they feel something, that’s a mission accomplished for me. 

Do you believe there’s an element of vulnerability when it comes to creating and sharing your music? If so, why?

Absolutely, and it’s precisely this vulnerability that we’ve managed to overcome that makes creating music and presenting it so incredible. 

It’s a personal challenge every time and there’s something really invigorating about it, especially if the reaction is good – you feel a bit invincible sometimes. 

Lastly, what makes you believe in Miracles?

Life is full of surprises, it surprises us every time, but I’d say the birth of my son has really made me believe in Miracles recently. 

Witness the magic of CRi live this Friday, December 15th, at Darkstar in Tempe. Alongside CRi will be Vino Works, with support from Nicky Elisabeth. Get more information about the show and grab your last-minute tickets here. 

Connect with CRi: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | SoundCloud