Royal Republic Interviews in English on a Rock, Metal, Alternative, Pop, Punk, Indie Webzine (20/06/25)
A few hours before gracing the Mainstage at Hellfest, Royal Republic’s three members, Hannes, Jonas, and Per, shared their thoughts with us. Despite the scorching heat, they maintained their humor and insight as they answered our questions. The band’s performance at Hellfest marked a well-deserved recognition for their talent.
Their sound, reminiscent of 80s album rock and disco bands like Reckless Love and Turborider, seems to attract a wide audience, even those who didn’t experience that era. Per explained that the emotional depth and nostalgia of the 80s and 90s music resonate with people on a profound level. Speaking of their songwriting process, the band shared that it was a collective effort, with all members contributing. While it wasn’t a quick process, they were able to create a diverse set of songs, highlighting their creative freedom.
When asked about the challenges in their music, they mentioned the song “Ain’t Got Time” as one that took a while to perfect. Similarly, “LoveCop” presented difficulties with complex vocal arrangements that were tricky to replicate live. Despite these challenges, they found ways to adapt their studio sounds to live performances, showcasing their versatile musical skills.
Their recent cover of Shocking Blue’s “Venus” is part of a larger project featuring four cover songs. Although the origin of working with the Blastbeaters corpse-painted band remains a mystery, Royal Republic is excited for the upcoming covers. The band confirmed that the second cover would release in August, remaining tight-lipped about further details.
While discussing their live performances, the band expressed their excitement for playing songs like “Love Somebody” and “Sha-la-la-Lady” from their latest album. They regarded “Anna-Leigh” as a songwriting masterpiece, sparking humorous anecdotes about the song’s namesake. Despite not being able to play it live that day, the band highlighted the joy of interacting with audiences during performances.
Reflecting on their live performances versus studio recordings, Royal Republic emphasized their passion for live shows. They humorously likened live performances to their “sex life,” highlighting the energy and connection they feel with audiences. The band also delved into the perception of their playful image, asserting that their music holds a deeper meaning despite its fun and carefree appeal.
In essence, Royal Republic’s music combines nostalgia with a modern energy that captivates audiences. Their blend of humor, insight, and musical talent sets them apart as a band dedicated to crafting memorable experiences for their fans. As they continue to evolve their sound and stage presence, Royal Republic’s unique approach to music is sure to leave a lasting impression on the music scene.