Born Kahren Chisom Anyanwu, Kahren is a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose sound is a fusion of RnB, soul and Afrobeats. The singer-songwriter cites Jorja Smith, Jhene Aiko, and Wande Coal as key influences, that helped shape her sound from her early days in music.

In a conversation with TXT, Kahren shares all about her artistry, the creative process behind her music, her musical break, and more.

TXT: Congratulations on “Sativa,” your first single this year! How has the reception been so far?

Kahren: The reception has been great. However, I can’t compare it to my previous releases as I took a break and need to rebuild my audience

TXT: What led to your break from the music scene, and how did it impact your creative process?

Kahren: The break gave me the opportunity to experiment with new styles of music, listen to other projects, and draw inspiration from them, as well as from personal experiences. I’ve also had the chance to meet new artistes, collaborate with both mainstream and underground artistes, attend music camps, learn from people’s experiences, and explore new genres.

TXT: With your diverse musical interests, can you share three 2024 albums that have shaped your sound?

Kahren: I really liked Tems’ album, the old school incorporation she used was amazing. Tems, Victony, and Ayra Starr released my top Nigerian albums, and their sound kind of inspired my new single, “Sativa”. Although I’ve been drawing inspiration from other songs as well, not just the ones released this year.

TXT: Before the break, you released your debut EP “I Think I Know Her”, how has it influenced your artistic growth and what was your experience like working with Victony and Blaqbonez on the project?

Kahren: Yes, there has been a significant growth. This time, I’m trying to experiment more with Afro-Soul, R&B, and it’s kind of different from the vibe that “I Think I Know Her” has. 

It was really good working with Victony and Blaqbonez. Before I worked on those songs with them, I was able to form a friendship first, so it was very comfortable for me. There were no challenges with either of them. It was more like, ‘Would you like to be on my project?’ So, it was kind of easy; it wasn’t difficult.

TXT: Can you tell us about your upbringing? Did you grow up in Lagos, and how did your environment influence your music?

Kahren: Yes, I grew up in Lagos but my parents are from the East. Growing up, I was always musically inclined. My family members love music, and I’ve always been surrounded by it since I was young. I could draw from different styles and incorporate them into my own music.

TXT: Was there a specific moment that sparked your interest in pursuing a music career?

Kahren: I started making music professionally in 2019. To be honest, it was my friends’ encouragement that fueled my passion. I was in 200 level then, and they knew I loved composing songs and playing the guitar. They encouraged me to start doing covers of popular songs and posting them online. 

From there, I started putting out more original songs. After a while, I got a message from a couple of producers, including Jinmi Abduls, who helped me produce my debut single ‘Remember’ in 2020.

What really drove me to pursue music was my friends’ encouragement. Despite loving music, I was naturally shy and never thought I would make a career out of it. Their support gave me the push I needed.

TXT: During that time, what were you studying? Also, do you believe education comes before music?

Kahren: I studied Education Management and Policy at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Education is important, but there are some people whose strengths lie in artistic pursuits. It’s important to attend school, but if you don’t complete your education and still manage to succeed in a particular field, that’s perfectly fine.

TXT: What was it like working with EKelly and BeatsByKO on your new single?

Kahren: Working with E Kelly and BeatsByKO on my new single ‘Sativa’ was a fantastic experience. I have a project coming out and ‘Sativa’ beat was one of the last ones I received from KO. When I first heard the beat, I loved it, but I didn’t start working on it immediately.

Later, E Kelly changed the direction a bit. He gave me the freedom to take my time, allowing me to perfect the song without any pressure. The environment was collaborative and relaxed, which enabled me to do my best. 

TXT: Can you walk us through your creative process?

Kahren: My creative process typically begins with ideas that come to mind. Sometimes, I take the first step by either sharing my concept with the producer to bring it to life or working with a beat sent by the producer. Next, I compose a melody in my head for the beats I have, write my lyrics and that completes my song.

TXT: How would you define your sound?

Kahren: To be honest, my sound still has an Afrobeats background, but most of the time, I just say Afro-fusion. It’s only when it has distinct Afrobeats elements that I emphasize it. With ‘Sativa,’ I’d say it’s Afro-fusion or Afro-soul but generally, my sound is R&B and Neo Soul.

TXT: When I mentioned that different artistes have names for their sounds, you laughed. What’s your take on artistes deviating from the Afrobeats tag and creating distinct terms for their music?

Kahren: I think artistes do this to stand out and showcase their versatility beyond Afrobeats. It’s a way for them, especially underground artistes, to explore new sounds and express their range. Honestly, I don’t think it’s personal.

From my perspective, I prefer the term ‘Afrofusion’ – blending Afrobeats with other genres. Rather than coin new terms, I wish artistes would adopt ‘Afrofusion’ to describe music that incorporates Afrobeats elements. This approach acknowledges the fusion of genres while maintaining a connection to Afrobeats roots.

TXT: Earlier, you mentioned a project in the works. Can you share its release date and any details about it?

Kahren: My EP is expected to drop in the first quarter of next year. I’ll be dropping a couple of videos from the EP, it will include six to eight tracks. The project is still in progress.

TXT: Are there any artistes you’d love to collaborate with?

Kahren: Yeah, there are many artistes I’d love to collaborate with, like Showdemcamp, Tems. That sounds like a reach, but I have a long list. Unfortunately, I can’t recall all of them right now.

TXT: What are your thoughts on the Nigerian music scene’s growing receptiveness to female artistes?

Kahren: I think there’s increased attention on female artistes now, but we still have a long way to go. Compared to the past, things are better, but there’s room for improvement. I appreciate the magazines and platforms dedicated to female artistes, especially underground acts.

However, I believe we need more communities focused on discovering, and showcasing female artistes. This includes record label signings and recognition beyond the usual accolades. By doing so, we can empower more women to thrive in the industry.

TXT: Do you think there should be more collaborations between female artistes?

Kahren: Absolutely, there should be more collaborations between female artistes. We definitely need more of that.

TXT: Asides from music, what other things are you passionate about?

Kahren: I still explore the world of art, I love aspects like editing, photography, and makeup artistry. Art is a constant source of inspiration for me, and I’m always eager to discover new creative fields. I’m deeply passionate about art.

TXT: Finally, what are your plans for December, considering how busy it gets in the Nigerian music industry?

Kahren: My goal is to be booked by December. I’m actively seeking opportunities to perform “Sativa” live, as I enjoy performing live. I’m specifically looking to secure shows and open for a few artistes.

WRITTEN BY PRECIOUS EMMANUEL