Music Interview: Kietell delves on his creative tastes, musical influences & new single “Pressure”
Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself.
My name is Kietell and I’m a 23 year old rapper and producer from Mississauga, Ontario.
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
My interest in music started from before I was even born actually. My dad would put headphones on my mom’s stomach and I would kick to the beat of whatever my dad was playing at the time which is why they gave me the nickname “Knox” I’ve been very interested in music since birth and it only made sense for me to pursue what I truly love and can’t live without. Which is music.
Tell us about your new music ? And what’s the story behind it?
My song “Pressure” was written while I was at work. The workplace didn’t have a lot of work to do so I found a spot where I could just zone out and write. It took me about 45 minutes to complete. Then that same day, I went home and made the beat for it. I knew I wanted something aggressive and hard hitting so I had to include those “War Cry” type trumpets, strings, and electric guitars to make an aggressive beat.
What makes your music unique? And how would you describe it?
I think what makes my music unique is the way I flow over the beats and my ability to rap over pretty much any beat handed to me.
Who are your biggest musical influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
My biggest music influences growing up were Jay Z, Kanye, And Big L. Kanye’s production and raps always stood out out to me and I still listen to his “Graduation” album to this day! I enjoyed Jay Z because of his flows, and his bars were always top notch. Now Big L was the reason why I started rapping in the first place. I discovered his music when I was 15 and I just couldn’t stop listening! His flows were amazing and his story telling ability was just insane to me. Big L was my biggest inspiration when it comes to me actually starting my rap career.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
One of the best moments in my music career so far is when I had one of my older songs “Paradise” hit 75k streams on Spotify! It was special to me because I remember when I first started uploading my music I would get excited when my song would touch 100 plays. But 75k!? That’s an amazing accomplishment!
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
I’m gonna keep it real. I feel like I can do better when it comes to balancing my music, family and friends. Sometimes I get so lost in my world of creation that I forget to call some family and friends at times. It’s a work in progress but I’m getting better at it for sure.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
My advice for aspiring musicians is to be yourself. Don’t try to be something you’re not. The coolest person you can be is yourself.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
One message that I’d give to my fans is to expect me to keep on giving you guys quality music!
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects?
I’ve been posting remixes to old and newer songs to my website twice a month to keep my people entertained!
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