A self-declared citizen of the world, Gigangi Cappai has a long road beneath his soles. Having first topped the Italian and European charts back in 1997 as ‘Alma Matris’, his track ‘Musica Electrica/Rumore Chimico’ was eventually re-released by New Yorker Star 69, thus cementing his status as a deep-tech tribal heavyweight. In time, Cappai would eventually remix pop icons such as Madonna, and dance music legends like Martha Wash, Afrika Bambaataa, Ralphi Rosario, Barbara Tucker, and Gaznevada, while his single ‘Rapido’ still remains a tribal anthem to this day.
Fast forward, and now Cappai runs his own labels: Blessed Cross Records, alongside his associate Foby. Conceived in 2019, his new label ranges from deep to progressive house, created with the purpose to release high-quality tunes; and OGU Recordings, which delves in electronica and sound research, giving options and access to an exceptionally wide range of talent.
Today, Giangi is behind the drop of his latest EP, ‘Better Life’. EG caught up with the Italian artist to learn more about the release, the inspiration that fuelled it, his relationship with Nia Martin in the studio, and more.
EG: Hello Giangi! As always, it’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been? How’s everything over there?
Giangi Cappai: Hey! I’m doing great, a bit stuck in the studio, but it’s fine, it’s my life!
EG: Congratulations on the release of ‘Better Life’, your new EP on OGU Records! What has the initial reception been like? Have you been able to play these live yet?
Giangi Cappai: Glad you like the song! Yes, I had the chance to play the track at some small parties I usually do with friends when I’m working a lot in the studio and travels are not planned, and so far everybody liked it. So I’m very happy.
EG: So, what was the inspiration behind ‘Better Life’? It sounds like a rather personal theme, right?
Giangi Cappai: Well yes, I always thought that everybody deserves a good life, in some cases even, a better life. And often just a gesture, a word from a person, maybe even unexpected, can make a dream come true. Sometimes, if you go fast on your own, with someone by your side you can go further and live better.
EG: And musically, what can listeners expect from you on ‘Better Life’?
Giangi Cappai: I hope I can help a bit to find the way, look better around, and discover the little signs for a better life!
“Often just a gesture, a word from a person, maybe even unexpected, can make a dream come true”
EG: This new single also sees you linking up with Nia Martin once again. What is the chemistry like by now? How do you guys work on the lyrics? Do you suggest a theme before you get started?
Giangi Cappai: I can’t remember how long we’ve been working together, and every time we do, it’s magic. I usually write the music and suggest the theme for the lyrics, Nia writes down everything, and then we define in the studio the song. We’re a proven studio couple, I can say!
EG: ‘Better Life’ also features a remix by Foby, which is your associate on your other label, Blessed Cross. So, do you know what to expect? Or does he keep surprising you? Did you have any of those ‘Oh, I wish I had thought of that’ when listening back to the remix for the first time?
Giangi Cappai: I know Foby’s style, and no, I never get surprising about his work. I get surprised by the high standards he always sets for himself, even if we usually work together, and I should know exactly what he can do. He is a great producer, and his version of ‘Better Life’ is amazing!
EG: What would you say is the perfect setting to listen to ‘Better Life’? Where would you like to listen to it if you could?
Giangi Cappai: In an open-space dancefloor, during the sunset, while the lights of the day mingle with those of the night!
EG: What would you like listeners to draw from ‘Better Life’?
Giangi Cappai: Strength, kindness, and the power to never give up, as all of us deserve a Better Life.
“I can’t remember how long we’ve been working together (with Nia Martin), and every time we do, it’s magic.”
EG: What else can we expect from Giangi Cappai and OGU Records in the near future? What new milestones are you looking out for in the coming months?
Giangi Cappai: Finally my first solo studio album, and my live tour, including live musicians! Now is the time!
EG: Thank you so much for your time, Giangi! We wish you all the best for the future!
Giangi Cappai: It has been a pleasure. Keep up your great work!
Giangi Cappai’s ‘Better Life’ EP is out now via OGU Records. Purchase your copy here.
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