ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: KANDA
Introducing KANDA, a rising artist with a distinctive voice that transcends genres. His latest track, "Bottom of The Bottle," fearlessly explores mental health and addiction. With a powerful message and captivating sound, KANDA connects with listeners on a deeper level. Get ready to be moved by his music!
"Bottom of The Bottle" tackles the themes of mental health and isolation. What inspired you to explore these topics in your music?
• I have always ensured to speak with purpose whenever I decide to write a song. Mental health matters haver always been a prominent issue to me as it is such a major topic that is sometimes difficult to aid. Tying that with an alcoholic addiction can send a really powerful message across to people to emphasise that help is all around if you can reach out which is a difficult barrier to overcome. Even if it cannot solve the problems, I feel like I can definitely utilise my music for the comfort of others.
Can you tell us more about the creative process behind "Bottom of The Bottle"? How did you work with the producers to bring your vision to life?
• I have to give a lot of credit to Harri Georgio and Maniscooler as they helped immensely with the production and the lyrics crafted to make the song. We wanted a powerful song with a lowkey vibe to it so that listeners can jam out to it and listen during downtime. Once we started to look for an inspiration for the song we found a tune by Bugzy Malone and Rag’n’Bone Man which we really enjoyed the style of, particularly the drums. At first, we had structured all of the parts to the instrumental - but eventually we decided to incorporate a real guitarist and trumpet player to maintain the track’s authenticity and genuine feel.
The music video for "Bottom of The Bottle" highlights the abuse of alcohol and its consequences. Why did you choose this visual representation for the song?
• I think it’s a very hard-hitting subject that many people struggle to converse about. However, I believe that it is essential to speak out regarding the internal struggles we face as a society and how as a community we can make a difference. The reason for the stress on alcohol in the video is actually to use a visual representation as a deterrent for dealing with problems with alcoholic influences, as I am aware of how it can be used as a negative catalyst. I wanted to emphasise that there are other ways to approach suffering with depressed emotions.
You mentioned that the song is a reminder to check up on loved ones. How do you hope your music will encourage conversations about mental health and support among listeners?
• I have always seen music as a way to communicate our true emotions and to connect with one another in our community. Music is a very powerful tool when combined with a strong message, and I wanted to show that using hard-hitting lyrics with a more groovy and chill beat can bring enjoyment to people but can also perhaps encourage conversations and make people more comfortable to talk about such topics.
Your previous single, "IHGYN," also carried a meaningful message. How important is it for you to use your music as a platform to address social issues and connect with your audience?
• I cannot stress how important it is personally for me. Especially in scenarios where I cannot relate as much, I just like to think that there is always a way to help or at least try, and my method involves my music. Sure it is easy to write a song about my emotions of love and pain, but speaking on a more serious topic has matured me greatly.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
• Previously, I looked up to the likes of Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran and J Hus for that pop, modern style of music. Nevertheless, since raging and maturing as an artist, my influences are coming from the likes of Rag’N’Bone Man and Jimi Hendrix for that gritty style within my voice, as it feels much more natural.
From performing at a young age to signing with HQ Familia, how has your musical journey evolved over the years? What have been some of the highlights for you so far?
• In the few years I have been doing music, I feel like I have had many accomplishments that have brought me personal pride. For instance, performing at the O2 in London as part of the Open Mic UK Final was such a thrilling experience, especially seeing the support from my family and the general public. Also, performing at the MOBO awards ceremony announcement conference in 2021. I am very proud of what I have achieved so far, however I know this is just a glimpse of what I know I am capable of within the industry and I will work hard to ensure that it’s only upwards from here.
As an artist who transcends genres, how do you approach blending different musical styles to create your unique sound?
• I think a very important aspect of me as a singer is I have a very unique and strong voice that not many male artists possess. So, I use the different genres as experiments to see what works, however I constantly ensure that my voice is very distinct to every song I do. I understand how important recognisability is when making a track, so I want to maintain my own sound whilst delving into different genres.
What can fans expect from your upcoming releases? Are there any particular themes or messages that you plan to explore in your future music?• I will definitely have more light-hearted songs coming out in the near future haha! But I for sure want to explore more serious topics now and then, when I am affected by a more political topic. All I have to say is look out for more of KANDA on the radio, in the magazines, on Youtube, Spotify, EVERYTHING!!!!
What can fans expect from your upcoming releases? Are there any particular themes or messages that you plan to explore in your future music?
• To be honest, I can’t predict the future, but I hope that there are many positive things on the horizon for me. My goals are definitely to perform at more festivals and to make more music videos all over the world. I just want to expand my brand across the continent and globe, we’ll see what happens but this is just the start for KANDA!