The London-based polymath is bridging the gap between the mosh pit and the main stage, proving that sometimes, being the "bigger person" is overrated.

W: Zoe Harrison

London-based rapper, writer, producer, and performer ROM-1 isn’t interested in perfection. Instead, they are shining a neon spotlight on the beautifully jagged flaws that make us human. With a sound that sits at the volatile intersection of industrial electronic and high-octane hip-hop, ROM-1 is crafting a sonic identity that is as "in your face" as a front-row seat at a fashion week riot.

For the uninitiated, ROM-1’s music isn't for background listening. It is "industrial electronic sounds made for movement"—the kind of high-velocity tracks that dominate pre-drinks and gym playlists alike.

"I bridge the gap between EDM, Punk, and Hip-Hop but deliver it like a pop act with choreography and productions usually associated with mainstream artists."

While their stage presence mirrors the polish of a global superstar, their creative engine is fuelled by raw, DIY grit. ROM-1 cites their greatest strength not as a single technical skill, but on their taste. "I’d never say I’m the best rapper, writer, or producer," they admit with refreshing candour, "but I pride myself in my ability to curate those elements to make something impactful."

The latest single, 'Haymaker', was born from a moment of uncharacteristic impulse. After encountering a long-term detractor at a club who attempted to "smile in their face," ROM-1 bypassed the high road entirely.

"My drink was over their face before my brain could even process what was happening," they laugh. "I was tired of being the bigger person. ‘Haymaker’ is about that release."

"‘Haymaker’ is like wrestling walk-out music if the wrestler was a flaming homosexual."

Influenced by the late, legendary SOPHIE and eyeing a potential collaboration with Shygirl, ROM-1’s trajectory is set firmly toward the future.

What can fans expect as the year unfolds? The artist is playing their cards close to their chest, but the outlook is electric.

The Single: 'Haymaker'—a certified, club-ready "banger."

The Project: A whispered-about EP currently in the works.

The Mystery: A collaboration with one of his all-time musical heroes.

Despite their rising profile, ROM-1 keeps it simple behind the curtain. Their pre-show routine involves hot honey and lemon, a full vocal warm-up, and a body stretch. As for diva demands? they only have one request: "In an ideal world—no talking in the green room." With music this loud, they clearly value the silence before the storm.