Kehina
London’s Kehina is transforming popular music. There is no one way to describe the artist’s sound; from the rhythmic, r&b vibe of “Motions” to the more subtle notes of “you know”, the artist has developed a new genre all on her own. This feat becomes even more crazy after knowing that she’s only been producing music for three years. The 21-year-old songwriter takes pride in developing her sound, which seemingly continues to evolve over time. Her latest release, “All Over Again”, is the perfect example of this. An upbeat tempo matched with smooth guitars are at the epicenter of what seems to be an end-of-summer classic. We recently spoke with the artist about her favorite song to write, what she’s doing on her day off, and more!
How did you start making music?
I’ve always been into writing music but I started producing my tracks 3 years ago when I started a music production degree so that I could have the tools to translate my vision into reality. It's been a long road, but it's something I'm really glad I invested in. For me, there's nothing worse than the frustration of a limitation on myself.
What was the last song you listened to?
Is it bad that it’s my own? I was just at the studio and usually, after a session, I listen over and over to catch things I might not have caught in the session. To make sure it’s really where I want it to be. Plus I fangirl a little bit on my way home because I feel like I’m listening to hits no one has heard yet. It’s a weird feeling.
Which one of your songs was your favourite to write and why?
The one I was just working on, “All over Again”. It just feels like the most of “me” I’ve ever heard on a track. It feels like the culmination of three years figuring out what my sound is. It’s also the most visual song that I’ve written. I wrote it to the music video that was playing in my head.
It’s collab time: who are you choosing to make a song with and why?
Jaden! I feel like he’s not afraid to test himself lyrically and sonically. That’s what gives him such a unique sonic footprint, you can’t really place his music so easily into one genre. Because of this, I feel like the mix of our two sounds would create something really interesting.
Describe your music in 3 words.
Fluid, haze, nostalgia
You have a day off; Where are you going?
I usually go for a skate to Hyde park (roller skating though, I have a fear of skateboarding), then I have a picnic and read a book when I get there. I like to read the journals of other people, I feel like it helps me understand my own thoughts better. Right now I'm on Diary of a Philosophy Student by Simone de Beauvoir. It's crazy how someone's thoughts and experiences from 100 years ago so closely resemble my own.
What’s next for Kehina?
A new single! “All over again” is out now and my favorite one to date. It’s just so visual for me and that's something I really enjoy when performing it. I’m looking forward to recording the video for it, I feel like that would complete the project.
