At 21 years old, Niki Kini is no stranger to the music scene. The singer-songwriting sensation started out on YouTube at the age of 15, and has since worked alongside the likes of RAYE and Rina Sawayama.
Niki's sultry vocals dance perfectly with her honest and playful lyrics and her co-production on her music. Her RnB tinged alternative pop earned her the accolade as Bobby Friction's (BBC Asian Network) youngest ever ‘Artist of the Week’, as well as performing at BBC Introducing Live 2018 at the Tobacco Docks, and Going South Festival 2022 hosted by Bobby Friction. Through all this Niki has remained 100% independent, maintaining the same integrity over herself as she does in her music.
Stay tuned for what Niki Kini has in store.
Ethnicity: British-Indian
Location: London, UK
Instagram: @nikikinimusic
Website:
GET TO KNOW - completed September 2023
3 words to describe you:
Bubbly, creative, hustler
3 words to describe your music:
Honest, playful, real
If it does, how does your heritage impact your art?
My heritage has crafted who I am in the most authentic yet understated way. It wasn't until my first release, 'Bow Down', that I realised I was able to sing in microtones (which is commonly heard in Carnatic music). This obscure skill came to me naturally having listened to traditional Indian music growing up. I try to also incorporate my heritage through my style, from jewelry to shapes to colours. I love that there are no limits to exploring my identity through music and fashion and I feel proud to represent my heritage and culture in this way, especially in an industry that desperately requires more Asian representation in the UK.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who and why?
So I don't tend to fan-girl over many people but Raye is the exception. She is my literal idol. Her approach to writing is unmatched and she is one of those artists who purely love music for what it is and isn't afraid to create something a bit weird and whacky sometimes. I had the insane opportunity of attending a writing camp she hosted when I was 15 and I fell in love with her as a person, musician, writer, everything. I would love to work with her one-on-one to just learn from her. I feel like Raye's music has shaped me as the song-writer I am today and it would be a dream to work with her one day.
Your next career/music goal:
I want to play at a summer festival. I'm such a festival girl and I love performing live so having a boogie on a stage at a festival with my band is definitely my next big goal.
Top 3 go to songs/artists:
Not Mine - A2
Hard Out Here - Raye
What Is It About Me - Lola Young
Words you live by:
You don't try, you don't get.
Anything else you'd like to share:
-
