Ricky Dietz - 10 Questions
Composed of Pierre Baigorry and Toronto-born singer Sway Clarke II, RICKY DIETZ is a riotous collaboration between two celebrated artists from different parts of the world and different musical backgrounds.
Prior to their formation in 2019, Sway had already been lauded by the press as an artist to watch and even dubbed ‘R&B’s next internet stud’ by The FADER, also drawing support from COLORS and writing songs for international stars such as John Legend and Tinie Tempah. Meanwhile Pierre, aka Peter Fox, is better known as the frontman of multi-platinum German reggae and dancehall outfit Seeed. Travelling the world and working with artists including Sarz, Cracker Mallo and Jr. Blender, RICKY DIETZ’s danceable, soul-drenched sound is one that can be appreciated the world over - from Berlin to Trinidad.
Ricky Dietz sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
My interest for music began with my dad’s record collection. He was a DJ and lost some of his collection due to theft and a big fire. But of those that were salvaged, they was just enough to have sparked my curiosity.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
Stevie Wonder, Radiohead and Outkast are my all time favourites, so if they’re willing to do an affordable feature, I’m down as fuck.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?
The fact that Ricky Dietz is a live act with band members, dancers and the full get up didn’t help us to deal with the pandemic. It was like breaking my legs then asking me to run a marathon. It impeded on our sole nature.
4. How would you describe your sound?
It’s a sweet mix of dancehall, afro and some good ol’ fashion Berlin techno.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
When my father joined me on tour for a few dates back in 2019 as we opened for a German act named Seeed. I don’t think he had ever seen me live. So it was beautiful, plus he got to smoke some weed on tour.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
If you don’t really love, don’t fuck with it cause if can break your heart.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
I’m really into Mach-Hommy at the moment. I feel like his production is so progressive for 2021.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
I’m not really an albums listener.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
Right now I’m deep into blockchain technology, so I can spend hours upon hours just reading and trying to understand the future we’re already embarking on.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Microphone, gummi bears and a window.
Ricky Dietz‘ latest single “Hennessy'“ is out now on all streaming platforms.