Kenny Iko: Crafting His Own R&B Legacy Amidst Michael Jackson Comparisons and Advocating for Change
For singer Kenny Iko, hearing his voice compared to the legendary Michael Jackson isn’t just a compliment; it’s a testament to his profound artistry and undeniable influence. This rising R&B star, known for his silky-smooth tenor and electrifying performances, recently sat down to discuss his latest single, “Everything,” the unique challenges of creating music during a global pandemic, and his unwavering commitment to using his platform for social good.
Kenny Iko openly acknowledges the King of Pop’s monumental impact on his musical journey. “I know I’m heavily influenced by him, so sometimes it comes out,” he shares, referring to the distinctive vocal nuances that have drawn comparisons to Jackson. Yet, while the influence is clear, Kenny Iko is far from a mere imitator. The Washington, D.C. native, now 30, is meticulously forging his own path, establishing a unique voice within the contemporary R&B landscape through his infectious grooves, heartfelt lyrics, and high-energy stage presence. He is an artist dedicated to crafting his own legacy, carving out a space where his deep appreciation for musical icons meets his fresh, authentic sound.
From Group Harmony to Solo Stardom: Kenny Iko’s Evolving Musical Journey
Kenny Iko’s artistic foundations were laid during his time with the group 4EY, where he honed his vocal prowess and stagecraft. This formative experience provided a crucial springboard for his solo career, which has seen him share stages with an impressive roster of talents including City Girls, Tamar Braxton, Anthony Hamilton, and Keke Palmer. His journey as a solo artist officially began with the release of his impactful album, WAR of Love, in 2019. The following year, he continued to build momentum with two compelling singles: “Big Mad” and the critically acclaimed “Everything.” It’s this latter track that Kenny proudly refers to as his “jewel, my pride and joy right now,” a sentiment that speaks volumes about the personal significance and artistic achievement of the song.
In a recent conversation, Kenny delved into the creative process behind “Everything,” revealing the innovative approach taken for its music video during unprecedented times. He also expressed his earnest desire to connect with members of the Jackson family, particularly Janet Jackson, a nod to the deep respect he holds for the musical dynasty. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Kenny Iko passionately articulated his belief that artists have a responsibility to speak out on crucial political and social issues, especially with the upcoming presidential election looming. He firmly believes that “it’s no time to be quiet” when the world demands attention and advocacy.
“Everything”: A Deep Dive into Love and Dedication
When asked about his latest single, “Everything,” Kenny Iko’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Everything is my jewel, my pride, and joy right now. I released it a couple weeks ago,” he explains. The song carries a universally resonant message of profound devotion and complete commitment in a relationship. It’s a testament to the idea that true love transcends mere words, requiring actions that reflect one’s deepest affections. “It’s saying to that person that, ‘I love you, I want you, I want to show you how much I love you.’ And the only way to show someone that you love them is to give them your everything. Give them your all, your time, your love, your care.” This philosophy permeates the track, making it an anthem for unconditional love and unwavering dedication, conveyed through Kenny’s signature smooth vocals and captivating R&B melodies.
Crafting a Music Video in Quarantine: Simplicity and Safety
The creation of the music video for “Everything” presented a unique set of challenges, as it was filmed amidst the constraints of the global pandemic and quarantine protocols. Kenny credits his videographer, Clairvoyance, for the ingenious solution. “Shout out to my videographer Clairvoyance, he had the dope idea to keep it super simple because it was during quarantine time, so we didn’t want to put too many people on set.” The team strategically kept the production crew to fewer than six individuals, ensuring a safe and efficient shoot. This minimalist approach proved to be incredibly effective, allowing the raw emotion and clear message of the song to take center stage without distractions. “We kept it under six [people], so we could get it done, and it came out really great. I think the song is so straight to the point, I wanted the video to be that way, too,” Kenny elaborates, highlighting the synergy between the song’s direct lyrical style and the video’s understated elegance.
Filming during a pandemic required meticulous planning and strict adherence to safety measures. “We had to wear our mask unless we were shooting, and they checked our temperatures with the thermometers on our heads,” Kenny recalls. The entire process was designed for maximum speed and cleanliness. “We kept it super, super quick, and super clean.” To further minimize risks, cast and crew members underwent testing before filming and practiced self-isolation in the week leading up to the shoot. “The week before, we couldn’t go out to be on the super safe side of things. We made sure it wasn’t a long shoot, and we all got tested before filming.” This commitment to safety ensured that creativity could flourish even under challenging circumstances, resulting in a video that perfectly complements the song’s intimate narrative.
The Michael Jackson Comparison: An Honor and an Influence
The comparison to Michael Jackson is an aspect of Kenny Iko’s career that frequently arises, and he addresses it with humility and reverence. “I know I’m heavily influenced by him, so sometimes it comes out,” he acknowledges. He clarifies that his vocal stylings are not a deliberate attempt to emulate the King of Pop, but rather an organic manifestation of his profound admiration for Jackson’s artistry. “It’s not that I’m trying to be like him, but he’s the greatest legend of all time, so yeah, I would just say I’m influenced by him.” This statement underscores the deep respect Kenny holds for Jackson’s unparalleled legacy, recognizing him as a foundational figure whose innovations continue to inspire generations of musicians. It’s an honor that he accepts gracefully, understanding that to be even mentioned in the same breath as such an icon speaks volumes about his own vocal talent and musical potential.
Despite the frequent comparisons, Kenny Iko reveals that he hasn’t yet had any direct contact with the Jackson family. He openly shares his aspiration for such an encounter, particularly with a specific member. “No, I wish, I wish Janet Jackson would hit me up,” he says with a laugh, highlighting his admiration for Janet’s own illustrious career and trailblazing influence in music and performance. Acknowledging the Jackson family’s enduring impact on popular culture, Kenny’s desire for connection speaks to a longing for mentorship or simply a nod from those who understand the pressures and triumphs of navigating a legendary musical heritage.
Collaborating with Talented Peers: Lessons from Justine Skye
Throughout his career, Kenny Iko has had the privilege of working alongside a diverse array of talented artists. One such collaboration was with Justine Skye, an experience he remembers fondly. “She’s a beautiful person outside and inside, and she’s so sweet,” Kenny recounts. He emphasizes Skye’s generosity and wisdom, noting that despite her younger age, her experience in the industry was invaluable. “Since she was little, and she’s more advanced than us, and she really took out the time to talk, hang out and like give us little gems here and there.” This open exchange of knowledge and camaraderie left a lasting impression on Kenny. “It was just cool. She was just like, one of the friends, one of the homies.” Such experiences highlight Kenny’s collaborative spirit and his appreciation for genuine connections within the competitive music world, reinforcing his image as an artist who values both talent and character.
The Artist as an Advocate: Speaking Up for Change
Kenny Iko firmly believes in the responsibility of artists and influencers to leverage their platforms for social awareness and advocacy. He sees it as a critical imperative, especially in light of movements like Black Lives Matter and the ongoing social and political issues impacting the nation and the world. “As an influencer, this is no time to be quiet,” he asserts with conviction. “It is definitely not the time to act like you don’t see what’s going on.” For Kenny, advocacy extends beyond mere observation; it demands active participation and vocal support. He encourages his followers to not only continue protesting and engaging in direct action but also to ensure that their stance is unequivocally clear.
His message is one of empowerment and mutual responsibility. “Be sure that any person that follows you is aware, and they see what side you are on, and you push other people to use their voices to be heard.” Kenny understands that an artist’s reach is built upon the support of their audience, and with that support comes a duty to represent and amplify their voices. “Because, honestly, we wouldn’t be where we are without the people that follow us. So we owe them the courage to speak up on their behalf and speak up on our behalf, but also be the voice for them since they probably can’t be heard.” This powerful statement underscores his dedication to being a voice for the voiceless and a catalyst for meaningful change, demonstrating his commitment to social justice beyond his musical artistry.
The Critical Importance of Voting
Central to Kenny Iko’s message of advocacy is the paramount importance of voting. He views it as the fundamental mechanism through which individuals can make their voices heard and effect tangible change. “Voting is super important. It’s your way to be heard,” he emphasizes. For African Americans, in particular, the act of voting carries profound historical weight, a right hard-won through generations of struggle and sacrifice. “If you’re African American, our great grandparents fought for that right, so let’s not take it lightly, and let’s not play around with it like it doesn’t mean anything because every vote counts.”
Kenny firmly believes that electoral participation is the most effective means of addressing societal grievances and driving progress. “And if you have a problem with something, the best way to make a change is to vote.” His conviction resonates with the idea that every ballot cast is a step towards a more equitable and just society, honoring the legacy of those who fought for the franchise and shaping the future for generations to come. Through his music and his advocacy, Kenny Iko stands as an artist committed not only to entertaining but also to inspiring positive transformation in the world.
Kenny Iko’s single, “Everything,” is available now across all major platforms, inviting listeners to experience his unique blend of R&B artistry and heartfelt storytelling. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Kenny Iko remains a compelling voice, both in music and in the broader conversation for social change.