As a songwriter for as long as he can remember, pop artist Keonte found his path in music after frequenting the local arts and music scene where he gained his affinity for art-culture at a young age. This has not only affected the type of music Keonte feels inspired by, but has had a direct influence on his personal style and approach to his craft.
As a festival-goer and a self-proclaimed “internet-age geek,” Keonte is driven by the motivation to speak on how to make things fitting for his generation and the future, and is a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
With gooey-pop lyrics and dance-floor ready vibe, his latest single “Automatic” is a vibrant, fun song with a light-hearted approach to modern-day culture. The grooves and basslines are laced with influences from 90s dance tracks mixed with provocative pop undertones. “Finishing the lyrics in the morning after a party – I thought about my generation, social themes, information – and how all of these things can affect the middle-aged millennial of today.”
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
The idea came to me over time. I thought about art-culture, nightlife, my influences and how society shapes us. I wanted to fuse those elements together into in a record- curious as to what the outcome would be, like a scientist or something. I’ve been working on singer-songwriter stuff for about 5 years now if not longer, going out to shows, venues, meeting with different people in the industry has definitely had an impact on where I am now and where I’d like to go.
What is the favorite song you wrote and why?
Gosh, I’ve written so many songs. At the moment though, I’d say ‘Toybox’. It’s such a fun track. Not only that but also a pivotal moment in my career so far.
Who are your all time musical icons?
Let’s see. Well, I’ve gotta start with the greats:
Freddie Mercury, Michael, Bowie
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
All sorts of things. Going out to different events, art-shows, gatherings, live-music.
Also, I’ve been getting into painting lately. I really want to learn how-to become a good painter.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Lately, I’ve been loving Dua Lipa’s stuff. She seems like a cool chick.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
‘Automatic’ the single, is sort of this gooey-pop song about being young in today’s day-and-age and how to sort of manage not only the tasks of life but also how to maintain a solid social-life, a creative balance and well-being. It’s fun. I wrote it in like 15 mins.
What’s the future looking like for you?
Making more art.
It’s been sort of therapeutic for me. I’m enjoying it.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
Street-style mostly, anything 90’s related. I’m almost always in a flannel no matter the season. But, lately I’ve been trying to branch out and try new things. I love fashion though, so we’ll see where it takes us next.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
I would say in the songwriting field. It was sort of a goal of mine especially with this record to expand my songwriting. I’d like to say that it’s been accomplished but there’s always room for growth with any artist. You know, they say, you’re only as good as your last work.
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
Hard-work. In whatever medium you work at. You’ve gotta put forth the effort to see any sort of outcome. But that’s with anything though.
What would you change in the music and entertainment industry especially after this past year?
Well, I know the pandemic has put a lot of people in a creative-rut. I’m hoping over-time we can see things lighten-up. I wouldn’t change a thing. All these pop stars have been putting out music like crazy and I’ve been loving every minute of it.
