Following on from a flurry of fresh and enticing cuts over the last few years, California-based rapper imKENNETHY is back on the grind once again to deliver the sweeping new single 'WYA'.
Opting for a smoother and more ethereal approach to the conventional hip-hop sound, 'WYA' sees the artist unveil a wonderfully warm and embracing new groove. With its sweet and pulsing tones, breezy atmosphere, and his own driven flow at the helm, he certainly has a bold and inventive sound to call his own.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and influences over the years.
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What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
Kanye West- I love how he pours his heart and soul into every track and how each of his albums are so different from each other but equally great in quality.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?
I never had my own band when I was younger, but I played the drums and piano during junior high and high school. It’s always amusing to think about how I went from playing classical and concert band music to producing contemporary hip hop.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
Music is definitely a form of therapy for whatever I’m going through at the time. It’s a way for me to release my frustration, insecurities, and negative thoughts in a productive manner. Although I have plenty of influences, my music and songwriting is really a direct reflection of my thoughts and conscience.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
Self Control by Frank Ocean–it expresses heartbreak and nostalgia in such a vulnerable and honest way while also being super catchy. I especially love the outro that makes the listener feel like they’re literally ascending to heaven.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
My first studio session with one of my go-to producers, billium. We produced my biggest song to date, STOP!, in about two hours and were on the same wavelength about our vision for the track. Everything seemed to fall in place naturally over the skeleton of the original demo, whether it was the lyrics and hook, the song arrangement, or drum programming and beat breaks.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Tyler, the Creator–his playful energy, strong charisma, and bright costumes are simply unmatched!
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
My dream collaboration is definitely SZA because of her incredible voice and dynamic songwriting talent, as well as Pharrell because of his versatility and distinct, meticulous production style.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
I genuinely see myself performing at major festivals and having a few hundred thousand monthly listeners on Spotify. I believe I have the passion, mindset, and team around me to make a name for myself as an independent artist and producer.
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imKENNETHY's new single 'WYA' is available to stream now. Check it out below.