Emerging singer-songwriter K.ZIA talks musical influences, most meaningful song and her UK Garage inspired release ‘Mon Mood’

Photo Credit: Ema Ofori

What inspired you to begin a career in music?

Before I even saw daylight I was surrounded by music. My mother is a musician and my father a horse acrobat. Music and art in general have always been around me. Growing up it wasn’t something I needed to think about or pursue. It wasn’t something I ever discovered, it has always been a part of me. Sometimes, when I am too busy to take the time to sing or write I get a little depressed and I don’t understand why until I realise I haven’t been making music. Music isn’t only a profession or a passion to me, it’s a need.

What differs you and your sound from other upcoming artists in the music industry?

I grew up in variety of places and countries. Having such variety has  influenced me as a person and artist. I feel that is one of the things that differentiate me. Yes, I do R&B but not quite how it’s done in the US not quite the UK R&B either nor the French speaking kind. It’s a mix of many things, with afro/world influences. When you look at all the single’s I’ve released so far you travel a little from an acapella vocal song, to a bedroom R&B track, to an afro acoustic bop to this last release that is UK Garage – and I feel there is a lot more in store as I continue to discover myself.

Your latest release ‘MON MOOD’ is out now. Please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the single?

‘Mon Mood’ is a special one for me. It really conveys a way of thought that I live by and the message I would like to convey as much as possible through music. Growing up we try to fit in frames cutting out our shapes based on each other. As we mature, we find that there is only one frame we fit into perfectly: our own. ‘Mon Mood’ is a reminder to never give up on your true self. We shouldn’t ever have to fit anyone frame but our own. I have a need to spread positive energy around me – It’s my little contribution to this big world. I hope to be a source of inspiration for people who feel like they are different, set aside, to keep shining and being free.

Everyone experiences good days and bad days, as a musician, when you have a bad day, what motivates you to keep moving and look ahead to the future?

My growing community. When I started my solo career three years ago I was alone. Today I feel backed and supported by a beautiful community. I am surrounded by so many artists that help me bring my vision further (producers, engineers, musicians, singers, videographers & photographers). There is a lot I am able to do thanks to all these beautiful people and THAT is what motivates me! But the ultimate motivation is knowing that I make some people’s days a little brighter. I receive messages on Instagram from people around the world that I don’t know, who tell me my songs have helped them through tough moments, inspire them to keep their authenticity or just be happy – and that is the biggest motivation of them all. People inspire me to inspire them.

In your own opinion, what is the most meaningful song you wrote? What makes you say that one?

That isn’t something I can answer. I am someone that writes based on emotions, real ones. So almost all my songs are very meaningful to me. Especially the past year – I’ve gained in experience, and maturity and most of my recent songs come from a deep place, I wouldn’t be able to choose.

Like I mentioned above ‘Mon Mood’ is a very special song for me, but so is my track ‘P.N.S’ that I’ve written for my younger self. So is ‘ELLE’ that I’ve written to all the women out there that feel pressured due to social expectations on beauty standards and/or behavior. ‘Go For More’ is about taking the time to know people before categorising them and trying to put them in a box – a very important message I want to bring forward as well. It’s impossible to answer this question 🙂

Throughout your musical career, have you experienced any ‘wow’ moments? Those moments that you stop to reflect and can’t believe you are where you are?

I like to be grateful and appreciate the small things just as much as the big ones. Yesterday was a wow moment for me. At 12:12 we shouted “it’s a wrap!” on the Mon Mood’s music video. We made on very a minimal budget (being an independent artist) and it turned out great. I had an amazing team of 14 people that were almost all working for free. We had a dope location and great energy. We shot form 10am to midnight, all working so hard to bring our creativity, knowledge and strengths together for the purpose of this creation. That was a wow moment – I am truly thankful.

Photo Credit: Jacques Tagu

What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?

Trust yourself. Don’t be scared to ask. Appreciate yourself and don’t wait for anybody to do your shit. Stay true to yourself and do things you love only, but don’t be lazy!

What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?

Many things… including growth artistically and personally, great collaborations and partnerships, more songs in French and a new EP.

Did you learn any new skills during lockdown?

To control my thoughts more. I also learnt a technique to help me stop overthinking. I got involved in more sports and took care of my shuttle (body).

Anything else you would like to add?

A Music video for ‘Mon Mood’ is in the making.

‘Mon Mood’ is available now via all major platforms.

Connect with K.ZIA

SoundCloud | Instagram | Twitter

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