Imani Griffon Unveils "Rude": A Deep Dive into Self-Criticism

Today, we're joined by a rising force in the world of Alternative R&B — singer, songwriter, and multidisciplinary artist Imani Griffon. Known for fusing soulful R&B with the textured pulse of trip hop, Imani has carved out a unique sonic identity that resonates with vulnerability, depth, and bold creativity. Born and raised in Paris, her musical influences span from Aretha Franklin to Massive Attack, giving her work a global, genre-bending feel.

With her latest single ‘Rude’ now out everywhere, Imani invites us into a deeply personal dialogue — one that wrestles with self-criticism and the pursuit of inner peace. In this interview, we explore the story behind ‘Rude,’ her evolving artistry, and what it means to make music that challenges and heals at the same time.

Imani, Rude feels like an inner monologue set to music — when did you realize you weren’t writing about someone else, but about yourself?

It’s when I suddenly realized that no one was hurting me while I was writing that track.

You’ve described the voice in Rude as “judgmental, mean, and hard to live with.” How do you use music to soften or confront that part of yourself?

Music is catharsis. When I compose and write, it’s introspection, and when I sing and perform, it’s externalization.

There’s a distinct shift in tone between Take My Mind, Pray, and now Rude. Do you feel like you’re entering a new phase artistically — or peeling back deeper layers of the same story?

Yes, I’m definitely entering a new phase. As an artist, you’re always stepping into something new. I haven’t found my sound yet, but I’m on the way.

Yves Tumor is an unexpected but powerful influence — what about their style speaks to you, and how did it shape Rude?

I fell in love with his album Praise A Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds). I’m really into the rawness — there’s something spontaneous in the lyrics and the production. I was deeply inspired by that “dark groove”.

You started out playing bars and independent venues in Paris, but now you’re performing at festivals like Burning Woman and La Boule Noire. How has that live energy shaped your sound?

I really enjoy being on stage — it’s my favorite part of this career. In my shows, I try to take people from something soft and deep to something powerful they can dance to. I mostly perform in small venues, always trying to improve my live set. If I can play somewhere, I’ll play!

Your debut single blended music and movement — even forming your own dance crew. Do you still choreograph to your own music, or has the body taken a different role in your process?

It’s a big part of my artistic journey — to me, it’s impossible to separate the two. I wasn’t the choreographer for Take My Mind, my dancer friends were, but I’ve always tried to connect bodies, movement, and dance to my music. I’m still exploring!

There’s a spiritual thread running through your work — not just in the title Pray, but in the way your songs feel like rituals. How important is that meditative or healing element in what you create?

I’m really drawn to the mystical. I’m sensitive to energy and vibes, and I’m deeply connected to intuition. When I was younger, teachers always said I was “dans la lune” — we say in French, it’s when you’re floating in your own world. I can’t separate that from my art and my creative process.

Paris has a vibrant, genre-defying scene right now. Where do you see yourself within it — part of the wave, or moving in your own lane?

There’s so much talent in this small city! I loved growing up here, but sometimes I feel a bit limited. I just follow the vibe, you know, I feel free to live & I’m ready to move forward.

Being of French-Togolese descent, how do those cultural identities show up in your sound or your lyrics — subtly or directly?

I still have a lot to learn about my dual cultural identity. It’s hard to find your place, that’s why I wrote Burning From the Inside. It’s about finding your place and staying true to yourself, even if it doesn’t fit how others see you.

With Rude potentially marking a new chapter, what’s next for you — another single, an EP, live shows, or something unexpected we’re not ready for?

I’ll be performing this summer, so if you’re around Paris, come through! As for the rest… I can’t say anything yet. Stay tuned!

Imani Griffon continues to redefine what it means to be vulnerable and fearless through sound. With ‘Rude’, she offers not just a song, but a moment of reflection — one that asks us to be gentler with ourselves. As she pushes boundaries in both sound and message, there's no doubt that Imani is a name to watch in the Alternative R&B landscape.

Be sure to stream ‘Rude’ now and check out the stunning music video. You can also follow Imani’s journey on her social platforms as she gears up for more releases and performances in 2025.