At just 21, Sekou emerges as one of the most captivating new voices in contemporary, homegrown RnB and soul. This artist, whose music encapsulates the intensity of personal experiences with a clarity that belies his age, hails from Leicester and is based in London. His songs traverse a wide emotional range, expressing a sincerity and depth that resonate equally in intimate settings and the vibrant energy of a packed venue.
With a voice that is both distinctive and powerful, capable of captivating any audience with a single note, Sekou has opened for SZA and completed a UK and European tour supporting FLO. He is the youngest nominee for the BRIT Rising Star Award and a favorite among tastemakers, having been shortlisted for BBC Radio 1's Sound of 2024 List. His expanding roster of collaborations with artists such as Justin Bieber, Central Cee, and Kevin Abstract further emphasizes the industry’s recognition of this generational talent.
After taking a break to refine his sound, Sekou has made notable progress in his artistic journey over the past two months. His groovy, retro-pop singles—‘Catching Bodies’ and ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’—have collectively surpassed six million streams, signaling a new phase marked by confidence, unfiltered joy, and poetic clarity. Sekou is now poised for a creative breakthrough with his debut mixtape, ‘In A World We Don’t Belong (Pt. 1)’. Developed over eighteen months, the five-track project blends introspection and newfound freedom into a unified expression, chronicling the transition from social alienation to confident self-identity.
In an interview with CLASH, Sekou shares insights into the creative process behind his new mixtape, the intimate nature of his live performances, and his journey from anxiety and self-doubt to music focused on freedom and ambition.
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Sekou, you’re currently one of the most thrilling talents in music, but for those who may not yet know you, can you share a bit about your background?
My name is Sekou, I’m 21 and originally from Leicester, though I’ve been living in London for about four years. My upbringing was heavily influenced by church, and I was always surrounded by music. My mother introduced me to incredible artists like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Stevie Wonder. From an early age, I was inspired by soul music, theater, and powerful artistry, which continue to influence my work today.
How did your church background shape your creativity?
Absolutely. The church encompasses so much. Most attendees have a connection to both God and music, making it a space for freedom. That spirit of openness is something I strive to capture in my music, especially in the soulful elements and vocals. The vocal power associated with churchgoers is prominent; think of artists like Whitney and Beyoncé.
When did you first start creating music? Was there a defining moment, or was it a natural progression for you?
It always felt natural. There was never any pressure from family to pursue music; I was drawn to inspiring individuals. I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, creating lyrics and melodies, but the act of recording music and crafting in a studio began about five years ago.
Can you describe the creative process behind your new mixtape and its significance to you?
I’ve been working on it for about a year and a half. I had previously released music that I felt didn’t fully represent me. I wanted to move beyond just piano and vocals. With a love for dance and inspiration from upbeat music, I aimed to create something fun that felt authentically “me.” As I grew as a person and my mindset evolved, I began collaborating with amazing artists in safe creative spaces, which was crucial. The first track we created was ‘Catching Bodies’, and from there, I gained clarity on my vision for the mixtape.
How did you arrive at the title ‘In A World We Don’t Belong’?
That title has been in my notes for about three years. It encapsulates my story. Growing up, I often felt like an outsider—sometimes I still do. Many of the songs reflect a sense of being a bit offbeat, with some lyrics being more abstract. It adds a personal layer that many can relate to.
Did the project solidify after ‘Catching Bodies’ was completed?
Initially, yes. Once ‘Catching Bodies’ came together, everything began to align. I had a track from three years ago that didn’t fit my earlier musical direction but adds depth to the story now. I even incorporated some older songs that resonate more now, marking that song as a pivotal moment.
You’ve performed at renowned venues like Brixton Academy and Hyde Park. How excited are you to share this new mixtape with an engaged audience in London soon?
I’m extremely excited! It’s my first headline show in about two years, with a completely fresh set and vibe. My band has expanded
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At only 21, Sekou emerges as one of the most captivating new talents in contemporary, homegrown RnB and soul. He is an artist whose creations express the depth of lived experience.