RAG MAG - ROKITA is Chris Rokita, a songwriter, arranger, producer, recording engineer, sound designer, singer and visual artist hailing from Frankenmuth, Michigan, who is a passionate and dedicated professional engaged in creating music that is powerful, inspirational, uplifting, and upbeat. Simply stated, he creates music that leaves listeners in a state of euphoria! He has that unique ability to capture the essence of an idea then deliver musically with heartfelt emotion that hits directly into one’s heart, soul, and mind. “I understood early on that I had a burning desire to pursue music” Rokita explains, “I wrote a few lyrics back in my high school and college days and my oldest brother was in a band and played guitar. However, no other family member played any musical instruments. Without a good musical upbringing, I needed to unlock my potential and grow on my own. So, everything I know, I picked up as I went along. I learned by surrounding myself with amazingly talented pioneering creatives in the music industry, and most importantly, I learned by doing, improving, taking criticism, and never giving up. These are important life lessons I learned to build upon to achieve my success. My influences run deep. Especially near and dear to my heart is the Classic Rock music style of the 60s, 70s and 80s…with that very real emotional feel. I grew up enjoying the popular Metal bands of the day; Iron Maiden, Ronny James Dio, Poison, Ratt, and the like. These bands really know how to drive emotions with their music…and the guitar work was phenomenal. Also, I have traveled extensively out-of-country and doing so has given me the opportunity to experience so much incredible music first hand.” “Just Wanna Be With You” is the latest single from ROKITA and showcases his highly honed musical capabilities. “I am always thinking of my mom, Marian, who passed away a few years back and how incredibly special she was and the words for a tribute song just came forth. She loved and cared dearly for all of us and never regretted the path she took in life even though she had a desire to be an actor. With her beauty there would be no question that she would have succeeded. The song and soon-to-be-completed video are a tribute to her life as a loving, caring Mom and it is her time in the spotlight that she never was able to realize because of the path that she had chosen. I miss her dearly and she will always be remembered! Musically, I was looking for an incredibly powerful earthly grounding percussion performance, as I am using guitar leads that seemingly feel like they are rising up into heaven. I approached world renowned drummer Kenny Aronoff for his expertise and he gifted the track with an exceptionally mind-boggling performance…and one in which listeners feel they can actually visualize him playing. I am eternally grateful. Truly an honor and a privilege to have that opportunity.” Over the course of his career, Rokita has collaborated with other world-class artists such as living musical pioneer Robert (Bobby) Lee Balderrama (founding member and original guitarist, backing vocalist, and songwriter with Question Mark and the Mysterians). While collaborating with incredibly talented artists, Rokita continues to refine his production and songwriting skills which he sees as tremendous assets while forging ahead with his solo career. In his journey blazing his own trail and on his own terms, Rokita’s showcased creativity has led to many an open door catching the attention of industry tastemakers, gatekeepers, and movers and shakers. “I am an unsigned non-major label artist operating my own business, so it falls upon me to know as much as possible and be proficient in many things so that I may give my fans not only great music but overall great product as well. I always strive to raise the bar ever higher when writing and composing a song. And I am a consummate professional who has a sincere love of my profession and a complete dedication to and passion for my craft.” It is no wonder that Rokita has been exciting music lovers and aficionados, while making new fans all over the globe. “I am dedicated to making “feel good” “inspirational” styles of music that are not limited to any genre, instrument, or language.” ~ Chris Rokita
Review Magazine - With the release of this new joyous, shimmering, hard-rocking, and uniquely passionate homage Just Wanna Be With You regional singer, songwriter, composer, and programmer extraordinaire Chris Rokita has created what can be easily be described as one of the most uplifting, powerful, and commanding Tribute songs to a loved one this reviewer has ever had the pleasure to experience.
Enlisting the aid of world-class drummer Kenny Aronoff, who has toured or recorded with artists such as John Fogerty, Linda Ronstadt, John Mellencamp, and Melissa Etheridge to name but a few, with this poignant seamlessly crafted homage that was inspired by the passing of his mother, Chris Rokita proves hands-down his talents as a one-man music factory by pulling together every aspect of professionalism in the music-making process as a singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, and recording engineer, which affords him the freedom to fully express his artistic vision without any constraints.
Mastered by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios in London, the uplifting power-pop guitar riffs Rokita uses to frame the song, coupled with the driven and expressive precision of Aronoff’s drumming, open up spaces for soaring and ebullient guitar solos that take the listener to a place one would never think from a song, which especially from a lyrical standpoint, one would expect to be written as a ballad as opposed to a pedal-to-the-floor rocker.
Rock Era Magazine - ROKITA’s Just Wanna Be With You is a vibrant, uplifting rock-pop anthem that pays tribute to love, loss, and cherished memories. Released on October 18, 2024, this track is a heartfelt celebration of life, inspired by Chris Rokita’s late mother, Marian.
Despite its deeply personal roots, the song exudes a cheerful and upbeat energy, capturing the joy and warmth Marian brought to those around her. Rokita blends the timeless spirit of classic rock with an infectious rhythm, crafting a song that feels like a celebration rather than a lament. The lyrics serve as an ode to Marian’s love and sacrifices, honoring her life while radiating positivity and gratitude for the legacy she left behind.
Musically, Just Wanna Be With You is a masterclass in balancing emotional depth with musical exuberance. Rokita’s soaring guitar leads evoke a sense of elevation and freedom, while Kenny Aronoff’s commanding percussion performance keeps the track grounded and driving. The synergy between the two creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience that invites you to tap your feet and smile through the tears.
The accompanying music video complements the song’s mood, spotlighting Marian’s story with warmth and tenderness. It offers a visual celebration of her role as a loving mother, adding layers of meaning to the track’s already rich emotional tapestry.
Rotate Magazine - Inspired by his late mother, Marian, “Just Wanna Be With You” is a deeply personal homage that celebrates her love, sacrifices, and enduring legacy. Rokita reflects on her life’s path, including her unrealized dream of becoming an actor, and brings her memory to life through music. The track beautifully encapsulates his feelings of love, loss, and remembrance, with soaring guitar leads that feel like they’re ascending toward heaven, grounded by a dynamic, earthy percussion.
To achieve the song’s emotive intensity, Rokita enlisted the legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff, whose exceptional performance imbues the track with palpable energy. Aronoff’s drumming is so vivid that it feels almost cinematic, allowing listeners to visualize the powerful rhythm as it unfolds.
Sinusoidal Music - ‘Just Wanna Be with You’ sounds like a hopeful love-song on first listen. This capturing a sense of happiness that feels almost nostalgic. The soundscape is guitar-led, allowing this sense of bright nostalgia to permeate through the track.
‘Just Wanna Be with You’ holds in it all these emotions that feel like a firecracker ready to explode. Like the warmth of a furnace on a cold night. Its a fighting tribute to love that was unconditional while it was around and still feels like its around though its physical source is gone.
‘Just Wanna Be with You’ by Rokita is a celebration life after the loss of a loved one, and acts as a reminder to always remember the good. This especially when a loved one has passed on forever.
Artistionline - Rokita manages to blend the timeless spirit of classic rock with a modern, infectious beat , creating a song that's a true celebration rather than a sad remembrance. The lyrics are a true ode to Marian's love and sacrifice, honoring her life and expressing gratitude for the legacy she left behind. This song doesn't just pay homage to the past, but embraces the present and the enduring power of love.
Lacaverna - From the United States, Rokita brings us “Just Wanna Be With You,” a moving tribute to his mother, Marian, who profoundly influenced his life. This single combines the emotional power of classic rock from the 60s, 70s, and 80s with a modern performance, highlighting Kenny Aronoff's masterful drumming and a moving guitar solo that seems to soar to the sky.
The song's lyrics reflect loss and nostalgia, but also hope, as Rokita sings of lasting memories and the longing to be with a loved one. The video, produced by Mighty Achilles LLC, blends intimate and cinematic visuals, highlighting the message of love and gratitude.
https://lacaverna.net/de-la-melancolia-al-esperanza-explorando-la-diversidad-del-indie-rap-y-rb/