After originally releasing her breakthrough single 'It's My Body' last year, a release influenced by the reversal of abortion rights across the US, emerging artist KANIKA is back once again to offer up the club remix for her latest anthem.
Channelling the same raw and vital message at its core, the new club remix of 'It's My Body' aims to heighten the vibrant approach she looked to inject into the original cut. Filled with bright and bouncing energy throughout, she has rebuilt the protest song with a bold and intense flair to it throughout.
So with the new remix available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and influences over the years.
What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
Wow…hard to pick just one! Ummm…the first artist I fell in love with was Michael Jackson. My first band…Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they
sound like?
My first band was formed right out of college. It was an R&B band that played only original songs from my very first album. A few years later I co-formed a band called The Upstarters, which I am still active as the lead front woman. The Upstarters is a very high energy, seven piece band featuring a horn section. We are a genre fusion experience mashing together Ska, rock, pop and funk.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
I like to write music with a message, whether that message is about social issues, or empowerment, or unity, or love, or…. And maybe it sounds cheesy when it's always easier to write a song about sex or a break up, etc., but I believe good song writers know how to write the soundtrack to people's lives. We all have so many lived experiences that can become both relevant and inspiring things to write and sing about.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
Definitely, Imagine by John Lennon. This song is sheer perfection, with a message that is still important for the world to hear.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
Very early in my career I had the opportunity to freestyle on stage with Wyclef John. Actually it was my friends who grabbed my legs and somehow catapulted me on the stage when he invited MC’s to come on stage. I’ll never forget when he handed me the mic or how I felt being on that big stage in front of sooo many people cheering me on. As an artist that has grown so much since then, if Wyclef would hand me the mic right now……watch out! Lol
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Lizzo, however I definitely want to perform with Pink too! I would be extremely honored to be considered as an opening act for both of these amazing female power-house artists.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
Both Pink and Lizzo are artists that embody some of my musical styles, while also using their platform to bring awareness to important social themes like female empowerment. But I also can’t forget Dua Lipa. She definitely embodies my love for dance music, which I am excited to release my next single and club song, See Me In You in the next few months.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
If only I had a crystal ball (smiling). As a multi-dimensional entertainer I definitely see myself working within other media spaces such as TV, movies, maybe even a stage play or musical.
I see myself being known for my musical contributions in how they advance the work many are doing on the ground to make the world a better place to live. Definitely not giving up on my goal of sharing the stage with Lizzo, Pink or other artists who try to show up and make a difference!
-
KANIKA's club remix of 'It's My Body' is available to stream now. Check out the new video for it below.