In 2023, you deserve to be able to find peace with difficult situations of your past, and hip-hop frontrunner Kelvyn Colt knows that perhaps better than anyone. With the buzzy new single, “EYE4EYE,” he chooses to move forward from a dispute with another artist in favor of focusing on his future and maintaining his peace, starting what’s set to be his biggest year yet on a thoughtful, optimistic note. It showcases just how in tune Kelvyn is with his emotions and how well he can translate them into an arena-ready anthem to inspire fans all around the world.
“It feels great to finally have the music and the visuals out,” Kelvyn tells TREMG. “I’m telling a personal story concerning principles, pride, ego, revenge and peer pressure in ‘EYE4EYE,’ and what I learned from going through that experience. Plus I reference some classic films throughout the video.”
Celebrated as the “future of hip-hop” by Vogue Germany and cherished by over one million monthly Spotify listeners, Kelvyn Colt is one of the hottest emerging acts on the global stage. He’s solidified his status as a European treasure and is quickly picking up steam around the world, even embarking on a string of shows in America this winter.
“I draw inspiration from German electronic music culture and my Nigerian heritage when I make music these days,” Kelvyn explains. “I’m excited to see what the European & US tour will bring, so far the live shows where we premiered GERMAN ANGST songs have been going crazy.”
Kelvyn is gearing up for the release of his latest EP, GERMAN ANGST, on March 17th, so now is the perfect time to give his music a listen and get excited for what he has up his sleeve for this new era. From his confessional lyrics to his incomparable energy, there’s plenty to look forward to, but even then, he’ll still find new ways to blow us away and surprise us.
“I only say what I need to be hearing myself,” Kelvyn shares. “If that resonates with you, it means I’m true to myself. I perform at CHURCH OF RAGE (shows) and bring people together at our HAPPENINGS, such as the mental health awareness protest we recently organized in Berlin, in order to build a loving and healthy, but lit, community around me. I’m like the vehicle connecting those who should be connected.”
If what you’ve heard from Kelvyn connects with you, be sure to link up with him on Instagram and Twitter! Keep reading for more from our interview with this rising global star.
Congratulations on your new single, “EYE4EYE!” How does it feel to finally share the song with the world, and what does the song mean to you?
It feels great to finally have the music and the visuals out. I’m telling a personal story concerning principles, pride, ego, revenge and peer pressure in “EYE4EYE,” and what I learned from going through that experience. Plus I reference some classic films throughout the video.
With every song you’ve released so far, you manage to find the perfect words to express a feeling and really bring a story to life. Is there a certain lyric from “EYE4EYE” that you’re particularly proud of?
“This shit gon’ give you clout and money, what you want more? And I replied peace, when I’m overseas on tour.”
You’re one of the standout hip-hop stars in Germany, and you now have your sights set on global success! What has it been like for you to represent Germany on the world stage, and to see how many people have resonated with your music around the world?
I draw inspiration from German electronic music culture and my Nigerian heritage when I make music these days. I’m excited to see what the European & US tour will bring, so far the live shows where we premiered GERMAN ANGST songs have been going crazy.
One of your main focuses with your music is mental health and helping others feel less alone, which we love! How does it feel to know your music has comforted so many of your fans?
I only say what I need to be hearing myself. If that resonates with you, it means I’m true to myself. I perform at CHURCH OF RAGE (shows) and bring people together at our HAPPENINGS, such as the mental health awareness protest we recently organized in Berlin, in order to build a loving and healthy, but lit, community around me. I’m like the vehicle connecting those who should be connected.
You’ve recently done your first performances in the US with shows in New York and LA! What was the energy like at those shows, and how did you prepare?
It was insane and I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved and hungry for more. I really just want to perform. Anywhere, the more unconventional the place and the crowd, the more exciting. I want to bring my Art into new spaces.
So many of your songs have such high energy that would be amazing at a concert – which of your songs has been your favorite to perform live and why?
“SHORTY!” Come to a performance and you’ll understand why.
How do you feel you’ve grown as an artist since your last EP, 2021’s Love before Death?
In every aspect I’ve grown – because I’ve grown as a human. During the lockdown, I’ve gone through a lot of reflecting, a lot of art, and a lot of healing. Beautiful rebirth.
For anyone who isn’t familiar with your music already, which of your songs would you recommend to them to get a feel for who you are as an artist?
Ideally anything from GERMAN ANGST.
We at TREMG love getting to know new artists who haven’t gotten the success or attention they deserve. Who are some of your favorite underrated artists at the moment?
Nader Khalil.
What can your fans look forward to in the rest of 2023?
GERMAN ANGST will drop. REBIRTH will drop. More HAPPENINGS, more CHURCH OF RAGE, and the best merch that has ever touched your skin.
Featured Image: Kelvyn Colt by Esra Sam
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