Interview with ‘RM Viagem’
Reggie Maddox is a songwriter and music producer. In 2015, he took a leap of faith when he launched his own business, RM Viagem. He recognized his passion for music while touring the world as a sailor in the United States Navy. Reggie shares his admiration for all styles of music based on his encounter with diverse societies. He understands that music is more than art it’s an expression that transforms into one global voice.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Columbus, Georgia. It’s a nice size town with some great food. I lived there as well as Atlanta, Georgia.
How long have you been making music?
I have been making music since the age of 24. I started off writing poetry and eventually, I begin to add harmonies and melodies to my work.
How many songs /albums have you released to date?
I written close to 124 songs. Mostly for other artists or organizations. Honestly, I believe that I am my own hardest critic. Some songs I lock away as I just don’t think they are ready to be released. For me, a song has to make you feel something on the inside. It’s not just about the beat but the lyrics should be powerful as well.
Can you tell us about your latest release and the background and inspirations behind it?
My latest release is “I Stand With You” the song is part of a collaboration with the artist Revelation formerly known as General Steel. Originally I wrote the song with the intent of a pop music track. After countless sessions in the studio, I decided to move more towards a Reggae sound as balanced out much better with the lyrics. My inspiration for the song was based on my friend that I call my angel and I wanted to create a song that expressed loyalty in a friendship that people could share.
How have you ended up in the music industry?
It’s crazy when I think about how I ended up in the music industry. I worked at a ballpark doing concessions, a security guard and a salesperson in an auto parts store. My love for writing and creativity just guided me here over a period of time. Sometimes it’s not clear where you will end up in life but I am blessed to be doing what I love.
What do you think of the music industry in 2018?
Oh wow, there are some positive things as well as negative but that goes with any industry, I think many people are focused on putting out singles more than albums these days. So in some aspects, the creative process of making music maybe blurred somewhat. I love the explosion of the new artist in the industry but I miss the uniqueness of the art. I want the best for every artist and wish everyone success.
Who do you think the most influential artist?
There is no way I could choose just select one but i have two and they are Phil Collins and Prince. Both of these guys displayed so much talent vocally and through musicianship. Seeing them on stage live would give anybody a true understanding of what real music is.
Who have you collaborated with so far in your career?
I have loved my collaboration projects. I have worked with Revelation, Bethany Hines, Audrey Carmel and Tzeitel Abrego. They are absolutely amazing artist.
How do you think you differ from other artists?
I try to differ from other artists with the lyrics to the songs I write. I strive to tell a story and draw the listener into the songs. It doesn’t matter if the song is upbeat or a ballad, my goal is to create an emotional connection.
Dead or alive, who would be your dream collaboration?
My dream collaboration would be Whitney Houston and Johnny Gill. Just answering this question has me arranging lyrics in my head that I would love to work with these guys on.
What was the first album you bought?
This is going to sound crazy but the first album I bought was NWA (Straight Outta Compton). I do listen to some rap music but I don’t write rap music.
What’s your favourite song at the moment?
Right now I am enjoying Keith Sweat song “How Many Ways”. I am hard on songs and I say that respectfully. Songs with vocal transitions that pack a punch.
If you had to sell your music collection tomorrow, what album would you leave in your draw?
This is a tough question but I think I would leave Full Force album “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”. That is one of my all-time favorites. Those guys could sing and I mean they were real singers.
What is your favourite saying?
I have always loved the saying “It’s not how much time you have left but what you do with the time that you have”. This quote motivates me to create something positive every day and do my best not to waste any opportunities.
What other hobbies or interests do you have?
I love to travel, play chest and go to the movies. When I want to relax I normally seek out a park with a lake. There is just something inspiring and peaceful about the water especially when there is a calm breeze. Other than that I try to workout and stay in shape.
Do you have any tattoos or piercings?
I don’t have any tattoos or piercings. Many of my friends and industry buddies have them all over. I have thought about getting a tattoo but I haven’t made any effort to do it. Truthfully, I can’t even tell you what type of tattoo I would get.
Tell us more about your upcoming project or this new project?
Currently, I am working on three songs “Take Me To The Water and Take Your Chains Off Me” both of these songs will be part of a collaboration with Revelation. “Here in This Moment” is a lovely ballad sung by Tzeitel Abrego, she has the most beautiful and angelic voice. The release date has been set for September 20, 2018.
What’s in the pipeline after this project?
After these projects are completed, I will focus on the Simply Straight Talk Show and two country songs I have been asked to complete by December. I have a lot of projects to keep me busy but this is what I love. I don’t like to rush any project. When you rush out material you’re not only cheating yourself but the fans as well.
Thank you for your time and may you carry on making great, fresh music.
Thank you and I really appreciate you taking time to speak with me. It has been a pleasure to speak with you and I look forward to speaking with you again.
How do you balance your projects and personal life?
It’s tough because when you are creating something it can consume your time. As for me I can become deep in thought when it comes to my projects. So If I were to ever get involved in a relationship this would be a part of me she would have understand.
Based on your experience what advice would you have anyone looking to enter the music industry?
Be prepared to work hard and expect disappointment. I have seen so many people focus on social media more than mastering their craft. Take time to learn the behind scenes aspects of music and use every opportunity on-stage and off-stage to enhance your performance. And finally always respect your fans.
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