Get Familiar: Planet Giza
Interview by Passion Dzenga
It's time to get familiar with the one and only Planet Giza! This Montreal-based hip-hop trio has been making waves in the music scene with their unique sound that blends funk, soul, and jazz with modern hip-hop beats. Comprised of members Rami B, Tony Stone, and Dumix, Planet Giza has been praised for their smooth and effortless flow, as well as their ability to seamlessly blend genres to create a sound that is entirely their own. With their latest album, "Added Sugar," receiving critical acclaim and a growing fanbase, we're excited to have them here today to talk about their journey and what's next for Planet Giza. So without further ado, let's get to know the talented members of Planet Giza!
How did Planet Giza come together as a group?
Tony knew Rami because they used to play basketball together as kids. Afterwards, Rami showed him how to make beats. Tony then met DoomX in high school where they formed a group called The North Virus. One day we all got together to make music and the chemistry was instantaneous. We told ourselves that we were onto something, and we had to keep this going.
What is the meaning behind the name "Planet Giza"?
It represents the 3 pyramids of Giza (because there’s 3 of us in the group). At first, all our projects had an Egyptian theme to go with the name, but we felt like just being free with our music. We kept the name because it sounds cool.
How would you describe your sound and musical style?
Our sound is a blend of all our influences. Southern Trap music, 90’s boom-bap, R&B, House, etc. We like to call our music Retro-Futuristic because it sounds like nothing you’ve heard before, but it also feels nostalgic a little.
How has the diverse community of Montreal and your wide range of musical influences influenced your music?
Montreal is a melting pot of cultures. So it’s safe to say that growing around a bunch of different people and sounds definitely influenced how we viewed and approached music.
What have been some of your biggest musical influences?
Q-tip, Jay-Z, Gucci Mane, The Neptunes, Kendrick Lamar, Tyler The Creator, and the list goes on.
You've worked with a range of seminal artists and producers. How have those collaborations influenced your music?
Collaborations are always a great learning experience because you get to see different perspectives and techniques when it comes to music. We always have these great conversations with the artists we work with about music and life and stuff. Always a fun time and we always end up making some fire.
How did you get involved with the Montreal Jazz Festival? What was that experience like?
They reached out to us about performing and of course we said we were down. So, after that, we got a live band and started rehearsing. It was our first live performance where Tony did vocals for the whole set. Truly an amazing experience and to see how we connected with the audience was very beautiful. Still makes us happy just thinking about it.
Tell us about your latest single, "Quiet On The Set." What was the inspiration behind it?
Quiet On The Set is about going that extra mile to make sure your significant other feels safe and protected. I wrote the song about a woman I was seeing at the time that was dealing with depression. I felt like comforting her through the music. Sonically, it sounds like nothing we’ve ever done but still has the classic elements of a Giza song.
What can fans expect from your new album?
Album Read When You Are is out everywhere now! You can expect real music, real stories, and emotions. Many people (including ourselves) are calling it the Album of the year so far!
What was it like performing a sold-out show in London with Kojey Radical as a surprise guest?
It was such a fun time! London really shows us a lot of love every time we go there. So to do a show and to have Kojey bless that stage with us was such an honor!
What are your plans for the future, in terms of touring and creating new music?
We’re working on a little euro tour because it is imperative that we take this show on the road. We’re constantly working on new music so stay tuned on that. Also, we’re working on merchandise (clothes, vinyl’s, etc.). Be on the lookout for all of that.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted your music and your plans?
It halted our momentum a little bit you know? We had to all sit down and regroup. We were working on the album, but we put a stop to it to work on a little EP instead. That resulted in the creation of Don’t Throw Rocks At The Moon. A project we made in 6 days that the people really loved and talk to us about it till this day.
Can you tell us about any upcoming collaborations or projects you have in the works?
We finished our album so now we’re just getting back into working with other artists. We want to go on a Neptunes run where we produce for everybody! So as of right now, nothing concrete but we have been talking to some big names. Stay tuned once again.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians and artists?
Stay true to yourself. Make the music you like and enjoy. Don’t just follow trends. Pay attention to your intentions.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
We want listeners to understand the passion and dedication we put into this music. We absolutely love what we do and we plan on staying here for quite some time!
