lordkez Is Forging Her Own Path: Interview

Impulse Africa Magazine Team recently caught up lordkez a young, emerging musician and multi-disciplinary artist based in Johannesburg, South Africa.  

lordkez’s voice exists on an ethereal plane. In one moment, it can drill into the souls with the strength of a full choir.

In the next, it’s blissfully soothing, sweeping whoever is lucky enough to hear it into a cloud of comfort. It always commands attention.

She recently released her brand new EP titled “midsummer” a beautiful blend of RnB & Soul with some dance and hip-hop notes that brings the impressive diversity out of one of South Africa’s rising voices.  

“I wrote this EP from the bottom of my heart, through some tears, some smiles, some pain and some joy, I wrote this project in the heat of it all – that is why it is called midsummer.” – lordkez

1.  Briefly tell us about your journey as a musician?

My journey has been one of self-discovery, I am still on the journey I am still growing every day, as a human being and as an artist. I am finding myself and learning to embrace who I am want to become.

2. How would you describe your sound?

Unique. I don’t think there is anyone like me right now, respectfully of course. I have a fluid approach to making music and I do things that resonate with the fabric that make me who I am.

I create from that place and that is why my sound isn’t something that can be boxed.

3. How has the process of establishing your own core sound and style been?

Carrying on from what I said above, the process has been natural, I try things and work on ideas that I am inspired by, this helps me express myself and intern learn about myself and the things I want to do.

My sound is developing as I develop, because my music is me, it is all of me.

4.    Where do you draw your inspiration from as a musician?

Honestly, it varies. But, I would say I draw it from feelings, emotion, nature and experience. I find that I write the best songs when I give myself the chance to live life a little.

I tell stories in rhythm, so sometimes I need to give life the chance to give me some stories to tell.

5.  Your latest project, what was the inspiration behind it?

I created the project in the middle of a major transitional/growth phase in my life, that project was created with the immediate inspiration of my mindset, my emotions and my experiences at the time.

I literally made it in “the heat of it all” and this is why I called it “midsummer”.

6.  Have you noticed any difference in the way people consumed your music during and after the lockdown?

Yes I think so, performing live helps people interpret the music in the way I created it, which is always a great thing.

In general the reception of my music has been good. I am so blessed to see people show me love for the things I make. It really make it all worth it.

7.    As an upcoming artist in Africa, what would you say is the most important lesson you have learnt so far?

 Remain true to your inner voice. There is a lot of attention on Africa at the moment and pressure to do the things that everyone is doing.

I have leant to block out the influence and pressure and focus on being me and the best possible version of me. I want to grow into the person I believe I am, in the way that is most natural to me.

8. Three things people do not know about you?

I am learning how to dance

I cook amazing curry

I am really good at GTA on PlayStation

9. What can your fans expect from you for the remainder of 2021?

Peace, love and high vibrations. I am going to let my music flow into the lives of people that support me. I am always working though, so maybe you will see a feature or two pop up. But, 2022 is a big year.

10. What are you most grateful for right now?

I am most grateful for the people around me and the fact that I can wake up in the morning and do the things I love.

There was a time where I didn’t think even this stage I am at would be possible. I always believed it, but you are confronted with tough times and it can hurt your belief.

But, I wake up now and I can do things I love and I can build towards something that can be impactful, for that I am eternally grateful. I love you all so much for supporting me.