Q: Hi! I really loved your release ‘Sink Not Swim’ and find it absolutely brilliant. If someone hasn’t had the chance to listen to it yet, how would you best describe the track?
A: “Sink Not Swim” is a blend of indie-pop and soul, reminiscent of 2000s UK indie-pop and pop-R&B. It explores the idea of making the wrong decisions in a significant relationship – choosing to sink, not swim.
Q: Where was it recorded?
A: The song was recorded in both Bloemfontein and Cape Town.
Q: Do you have plans to include it in a bigger release, like an EP or album?
A: “Sink Not Swim” is part of my year-long project, where I release a track every 2nd Friday of the year. I’ve also been collaborating with artists from around the world.
Q: I’m interested in how you began your musical journey. Did you always know that this was your true passion?
A: I had music lessons on and off during my childhood. However, a few months before starting my undergraduate studies, I realized that my true passion was music. I gradually improved my guitar skills and started learning other aspects like production, songwriting, and arrangement. Balancing music with school and life made it clear that music was my passion.
Q: Your music blends various styles and sounds in a captivating manner. If given the opportunity, who would be your ideal collaborator and what is the reason behind your choice?
A: At this moment, my ideal collaborator would probably be Filah lah lah. I admire her incredible voice and songwriting skills. She often incorporates keys into her songs, so I’d love to create something with the guitar as the main instrument.
Q: What has been your favorite musical experience so far?
A: Winning a Standard Bank Ovation Award at the 2022 National Arts Festival in Makhanda has been a standout experience. It was a one-of-a-kind moment.
Q: Where are you located? Can you describe how the local music scene has influenced your sound in any way?
A: I am based in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Being here encouraged me to experiment with live bands and increased my flexibility in music. The local music scene in Bloemfontein is different from my hometown, Nairobi. So, I needed to adapt while retaining my distinct sound.
Q: If you had the opportunity to perform at any venue worldwide, which one would you choose and why?
A: The Royal Albert Hall would be my top choice. Many artists I admire and consider similar to my style have performed there. The venue’s history and prestige, along with the significance of having my music on that stage, make it a dream.
Q: What was the first album you remember owning?
A: I remember my parents’ collection, which included niche music like traditional and folk Celtic albums, and “Sisters of Swing 98.” The first album I actually bought was “The Blacc Circle,” which belonged to a close friend and colleague.
Q: Finally, do you have anything to share about upcoming gigs? Also, what are your plans for 2024?
A: I have a gig scheduled for the 17th of November at the Radioactive Poetry Cafe. As for 2024, I plan to release an EP every 2nd month throughout the year, and one of those will be a collaboration with Jade Garisch.