Following the release of her brand new single and video Wake Up, we caught an interview with artist and songwriter Keseniyah, to find out more about the music, the visuals, and her plans for the future. Here’s the conversation in full.
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Hi Keseniyah – thanks for the interview! For those who don’t know, how would you describe the music you make?
I mainly do inspirational pop music with thoughtful lyrics and cinematic melodies. However, I also plan to do some EDM side gigs from time to time like Happy Song (EDM Mix), released in July 2021.
Congratulations for the release of Wake Up. What can you tell us about the song?
The song is about friendship, love and the importance of helping someone (or maybe yourself!) who is struggling to take a second breath. Wake Up is especially relevant during global post-COVID recovery.
Do you play piano yourself and is this how you generally sit down to write new songs?
I do play piano, however, I always start with the lyrics. It comes to me naturally in the moments when I’m walking or taking the tube and I just write it down and work a bit more later with a fresh mind. I co-write music later with my producer based on my initial music references for the song and further mutual ideas.
How did the video come to be, where was it shot, and why did you choose these visuals?
The video was shot at the abandoned centuries old manor house Mikhailovkoe in Russia – and it takes your breath away even today! I wanted to create a story showing that real beauty can be awakened by light and attention to it. Just like the beauty inside us.
How did you first get started in music, and how has your style evolved over time?
I was always influenced by great vocals and powerful songs that make you have goosebumps (like Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Beyonce). Initially I was doing covers, however, I always wanted to bring my own inspirational message in songs.
In my upcoming EP Phoenix Unleashed you will find experiments with the vocal tones and musical delivery (from highly cinematic arrangement to almost acoustic sound).
Is there a longer project on the way, and if so – what can we expect from that?
My debut EP Phoenix Unleashed will be released in November together with another very cinematic music video Kryptonite. The EP contains 5 songs (Wake Up being the first single). It tells a story about a journey of self-discovery and rebirth on your way to happiness. All songs are quite different, and the order of the songs is not random.
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Check out Keseniyah on Facebook & Instagram or visit her Website.
