Golden Indie Award Winner R.fu's 'No Internal Conflict' Secret Revealed

R.fu, a contemporary indigenous artist from the Nanguaq music label, has released his first album, "Kan THE WEIGHT." The album features soul rap infused with the Sakizaya language, aiming to represent the struggles and spirit of laborers and those balancing multiple jobs.

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He has some lyrics that are very indigenous, things that ordinary people wouldn't think of. For example, he writes: 'Give me a complete heavyweight answer,' which is something only indigenous people would say. A heavyweight answer, very weighty.

Originally from Taitung, R.fu is of mixed Amis and Puyuma heritage but grew up in the urban environment of New Taipei City. A chance encounter led him to the Sakizaya community in Hualien, where he found a spiritual connection and was given the tribal name "R.fu Laham." He now creates music in Sakizaya, focusing on the language's natural rhythm rather than the burden of preserving tradition.

His previous collaboration, "Zaljum Water," won the Golden Indie Music Award for Best Electronic Song. For "Kan THE WEIGHT," R.fu collaborated with producers ABAO and Huang Shaoyong. The album incorporates field recordings from his work, such as the sounds of shipping containers and clinking glasses, to create a vivid soundscape of working-class life.

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He has a great advantage in his rhythm and pitch, and he really doesn't overthink things or get caught up in internal struggles. In music, he can be very cool, very annoying, very cocky, but in daily life, he's just the most lovable honest person.

ABAO praised R.fu's unique lyrical perspective and his exceptional musicality, noting his maturity and ability to embody different personas in his music while remaining a grounded individual. The album also features vocal support from other Nanguaq artists, highlighting the label's strong sense of community.

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This is an album with no slow songs!