Komanii is redefining Hip-Hop and RnB borders
Some musicians get in a groove and never get out of it. Komanii was never content to remain stagnant.
Born in Nairobi and now based in London, Komanii’s life has been defined by movement. By the age of 27, he had lived in seven countries: from Kenya to the USA to the UK; each adding layers to his music. “Living in different cultures has influenced my flow, cadence, and the language I use,” he explains. “It’s helped create my own unique sound and sonic footprint.”
Back To You – A Self Love Anthem
Komanii’s new single, ‘Back To You’, may be his catchiest, pop-infused rap to date, but it’s also extremely personal. “The message is a self-love and celebration after pain or brokenness,” he says. The song weaves together a dance-funk kick and growling bass line with lush 7th chords, all driven home with a soulful sample. “A fun exercise in genre-bending without sacrificing my storytelling approach.” ‘Back To You’ has been a fan favourite and is featured on Komanii’s newest EP release titled Last Days of Summer which he recently released on August 8th. “Last Days of Summer — a small EP to round off the season. It’s all about good vibes and energy, made to make you dance, jump, and move your body. May it be the soundtrack to your Last Days of Summer.
Power of Self Sufficiency
In addition to being a rapper and singer, he is a producer, an engineer, and an artist. “I had and still have the keys to the castle,” he says. “When I first started out, I figured out how to produce myself so that I didn’t need to be dependent upon someone else. Not being dependent helped me grow and when I do join forces, it’s because I want to, not because I need to.”
Fashion Meets Music
Music isn’t his only creative outlet. Komanii is also a fashion designer with a passion for vibrant, slick, and comfortable clothing. Having studied at a fashion institute in LA, he now designs contemporary African collections and creates his own merchandise. “Music and fashion go hand in hand,” he says. “It’s just another way of expressing myself.”
Creating A Larger Picture
By releasing Back To You, HURRA, 254, and the Last Days of Summer EP, Komanii is setting the stage for something big. “Every song is a different style, but you can hear that same thread that tells you, oh, this is still me,’’ he says. “I am painting a big-picture via my songs… but you just have to wait and see for now.”