In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of South African music, a new voice is capturing hearts and minds with her unique blend of sounds and enchanting vocals. This voice is none other than the remarkable beauty, K!NO, a burning and promising talent making waves in the music scene. I had the opportunity to interview and engage in a conversation with the K!NO to discuss her journey as an growing artist, her influences, aspirations, creative processes and word of advice to artists and creatives alike.
ABOUT K!NO
Linomtha Tshuku, also known by her stage name 'K!NO,' is a 22-year-old creative, multi-talented experimental artist hailing from Mthatha, Eastern Cape. She spent her formative years in East London and Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape. Currently based in Johannesburg, K!NO is the youngest of three siblings and a proud holder of a bachelor's degree from the University of Johannesburg, along with other notable certifications. Her music is a unique blend of alternative, neo-soul, and R&B, deeply inspired by iconic artists in soulful genres such as Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Jhené Aiko, Sade, and many more, uncovered by K!NO herself.
Congratulations on your debut project, DEAD D!ARY! What inspired the title, and what's the story behind it?
Thank you. So, the title 'DEAD D!ARY ' gets its title from the fact that the songs on the project reflect things which I've since overcome...or at least learnt how to deal with. I tend to have many thoughts so I journal a lot. The diary is a sonic scrapbook filled with songs that are like diary entries that I wrote when I couldn't put my feelings into actual words.
Your sound is a unique blend of alternative and R&B. What inspired you to start making music, how would you describe your music style in your own words, and what influences have shaped it?
I fell in love with music at a really young age and started creating my own as a way to express myself. I wrote my first song when I was 11 and realised I was actually good and passionate about it when I was in high school. My music is an ethereal blend of R&B, soul, sometimes hip- hop and alternative sounds but I like to think of it as a vibe that blends genres. I make music for myself, firstly, and like any other art, I understand that it can be interpreted differently and its meaning can vary from person to person. More than anything, I want my music to feel like a magnetic energy that takes the listener to another atmosphere filled with cosmic rhythms and ethereal harmonies. It is influenced by soulful divas like Erykah Badu, alternative R&B superstars like SZA and celestial sounds from Tame Impala.
What would you say is your most personal song on DEAD D!ARY, and what's the story behind it?
The intro 'dead diary' is my most personal song on the project because it lets you inside of what was going on in my head at the time. It's also the oldest song off the project from 2 or 3 years ago and I wrote it when I was in a 'not so bright' place mentally. I felt like I was living in a loop. Vulnerability in songwriting is challenging and rare because it requires personal experiences, which can be overwhelming.
How does your creative process work when writing your songs? Do you draw mostly from personal experiences or do you explore fictional themes as well?
I draw inspiration from many sources, mostly personal experiences. I am inspired by nature, my surroundings, emotions and random moments. I wrote 'Uber Ride' coming from a night out reflecting on the potential risks that come with getting in a car with a stranger. Anything that sparks up my creativity, I'll write about.
How has your journey as an artist been so far, especially within the South African music industry? Any challenges and what have you learned along the way?
My journey as an artist has been amazing and promising. My debut EP exceeded my expectations and I hope the next one opens more doors for me. I am an independent artist and that already comes with its own challenges which include limited financial resources and having to play many roles at once. I am still finding my niche as an independent alternative artist and I am grateful for spaces like 'The backyard tour' and 'Narow-bi" that allow artists like me to share their art.
How do you see your music fitting into the current landscape of alternative R&B, and what sets you apart?
I'm excited to be part of the growing alternative R&B movement in South Africa and I am happy to bring a fresh perspective and different style to the table. I spent three years refining my sound after a failed attempt at releasing music in 2020. After a journey of artistic growth and self- discovery, I feel like I've found my unique voice.
K!NO discography cover art, courtesy of Spotify.
We are all curious. What is the significance of the exclamation mark in your stage name, K!NO and debut project title?
Haha! Y'all are gonna hate me for this one! Initially, it was supposed to be Kino but apparently there's a lot of us so I had to stand out. I then used the exclamation mark as a symbol that reflects my bold, vibrant, larger than life personality and talent. It's our thing now!
What's one thing you want your supporters to know about you that they might not already know?
I have a secret: I am a former contemporary dancer and I hope to merge that to my music soon.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your music career so far?
People recognizing me, loving my music and singing my songs word for word when I'm on stage has been the highlight of my career but one SA artist that I truly admire and that I won't mention (we're working on something) came up to me and said I'm dope. That made my week.
Which artists or bands have been your biggest inspirations, and how have they influenced your work?
I love a good, well-written song, So artists like Erykah Badu and SZA influenced me to write original stories from my perspective, sharing my experiences and emotions in a fresh and authentic way.
How do you overcome songwriter’s block or creative slumps?
I take breaks and touch grass, literally. I find that experiencing new things and being in different settings helps stimulate my imagination and gets my creativity back. The ocean does that to me. I also have a song in my vault titled 'writer's block' that I wrote when I was experiencing a creative block. It's a good song that I turn to when I am stuck.
Are there any genres or styles you’d like to explore in the future?
Yes and hear me out, I'd like to explore alternative rock in my music, that's a genre I've loved since I was young. My dream collaboration on it would be with Internet Girl, but first I need to stretch my vocal limits and tap into the genre's raw emotion.
How do you balance your personal life with your music career?
I journal and exercise. I prioritize self-care, try to maintain relationships and I also make sure to drink water and mind my business, focus on my growth and well-being.
What's next for K!NO? Any upcoming projects, performances or collaborations we can look forward to?
Yes, I am working on my second project, it's a tape. I have collaborated with amazing artists that we all love. All I can say is 'We bloom in Spring'.
Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring musicians and creatives?
Take the first step, be you and everything else will fall in line. Don't let fear hold you back, your dreams are worth fighting for!
