Kevin Ekofo is a Canadian-based producer who came from humbling beginnings. From working in finance to artists like WizKid, Swae Lee, Bryson Tiller, and John Legend, Kevin’s life immensely turned, shining a great light on the music industry. We had the chance to sit down with him in July and discuss his beginnings, progress and, what’s to come:
- How did you originally get into music / music production?
Music started for me at a young age, I was about 10-11 when I first got into it. My dad put me into Music School for about a year, and hired a private guitar teacher for me for about a year. Eventually, I joined my church choir, and started playing in the band every sunday for almost a decade. I slowly ventured to play for some local artists in the city, quickly realising that being a live musician was not the only thing I wanted to do in this industry. Production didn’t come until later on in my 20s.
- Who are some of your music inspirations and how have they inspired you?
Music at first was not really my interest at all as a kid, however it grew into a passion over the years of being in the industry. I started to become inspired by musicians that I would watch on Youtube like Isaiah Sharkey, Chris Payton, Agape Jerry etc. Their playing style helped me shape my approach to music today.
- How did you feel working on the WizKid album (big culture change), with Justin Bieber then hopping on the remix?
Having my first major placements being with an Artist as big as WizKid is incredible. I didn’t expect this to happen coming into the industry, and although the album has been out for a year now, I am still so grateful for that opportunity. It was about time Africa was put on the forefront of the music industry, just surprised that it’s only now that the rest of the world has caught on. JB just gets it.
- It looks like you’re making ways for African / Afrobeats in North America, your parents must be proud. How do they feel about all of this?
I do hope my parents are extremely proud. Although they don’t fully understand the full scope of what is going on, they see that im building something bigger than me and working towards achieving big goals that I have.
- In terms of Afrobeats and such, are you still working on these type of vibes or are you trying to switch it up? What’s next for you?
African music is a part of who I am, I don’t think it will ever change for me. I don’t really like to be boxed in one genre. I generally work on everything and anything that feels good. We’ll have to wait and see!
- Should we be excited for any new projects dropping soon?
They’re is a lot of new music and projects on the way! Cannot wait until it’s ready to be shared with the world! Not too much I can say right now, but definitely stay tuned!
