Born Geoffrey Campbell II, in Mobile Alabama, Cam Royale knows what it’s like to struggle, and, now based in New Orleans, he uses his story of resilience and survival as a powerful voice for those who feel they have been overlooked; this is no less the case in his latest release, ‘Can’t Lie’.
While he was dedicated to music from an early age, Cam Royale’s life took some twists, along the way, including several homeless experiences in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. However, following the birth of his daughter, he regained some hope, and, determining to give his family a better life, he joined the U.S. Army Reserves, eventually doing a 400 day combat tour of Iraq. On returning home, he poured himself wholly into his music. This wasn’t the end of his challenges though. Moving to Texas, he, his wife, and their children, found themselves living at the Salvation Army Shelter, but in Fort Worth he started giving back to the community: offering free haircuts, bounce houses, food, and above all, hope. This led to he and his wife establishing two businesses: Southern Express Trucking LLC and Touched by An Angel Cleaning Services. In addition, Cam also launched his own label, Wake Up Music Group.
With ‘Can’t Lie’, recorded with fellow combat veteran and engineer, Ghost (Gerald Davis Jr), and mixed and mastered by Chad Scarlett at Session Works Studio, Cam’s sound is honest, emotional, and above all, deeply Southern, blending hip-hop with blues, gospel, and soul – he’s self-described it as “Southern & Blues”. This sound also serves as the title of his upcoming double album, which he will soon be releasing independently, in addition to a mixtape called ‘Planet Real’.
Raw, and original, ‘Can’t Lie’ is an expression of life in the trenches, and the overwhelming urge and need to climb out and get to something better. Speaking for the forgotten, the fallen, and the faithful, Cam gives his voice to the voiceless.
The accompanying music video, shot by Nyeela Love, takes its inspiration from the complexities of marriage, and tells the story of a troubled relationship and the emotional turmoil following separation. The clip is more or less in the format of a short film, and is set in a lonely apartment and a therapist’s office. Cam Royale’s message is clear and powerful, and he wants listeners to truly understand – that lies are never in good company, and that the truth, no matter how painful, can only be hidden for so long.
You can watch the music video for ‘Can’t Lie’ below. Find out more about Cam Royale and his music online on Instagram.
