Wellington-born Kenzie From Welly, a proud Māori and Samoan artist, has just released her debut album, 'Greenstone Door', and it's a powerful introduction to her unique sound. Influenced by a diverse range of artists, from Bones Thugs-N-Harmony to Lauryn Hill, Kenzie's music reflects her heritage and experiences with raw honesty.
Recorded in Brisbane with producer Troy Samuela, the album came together organically in just ten days. In this interview, we delve into Kenzie’s musical beginnings, the inspirations behind her music, and the creative process behind 'Greenstone Door'.
So great to chat with you today! When did you first start making music?
"I downloaded some free recording software on a family computer as a teen and started making music with my brother and cousins on a Singstar mic."
What inspired you to start your journey into music?
"Being around my older cousins freestyling in the garage or at the park and wanting to be better than them.Also listening to Aotearoa artist David Dallas, formerly known as Con Psy at the time. Hearing Dave rap and thinking he sounded super dope and that if he came from Aotearoa and could make dope rap music maybe I could one day."
Are there any influences that help define your music?
"Experience, indigeneity, truth and growth."
How would you describe your sound on the new album?
"Thought-provoking and hard-hitting."
Can you tell us a bit more about the album?
"'Greenstone Door' is an entry point to time travel with me."
What was your songwriting process? How did it all come together?
"The cuz/producer Troy Samuela came to visit in Brisbane. We set out to have a jam without planning for a specific outcome in an attempt to avoid pressure-induced creative blocks. After 10 days we had a full album that felt like it made itself."
What’s the most important thing for you when you’re writing a song?
"Whether it moves me emotionally during and after the writing process."
What’s next for you as an artist?
"We're all artists of our own experience. I would like mine to be a beautiful one."
Do you have anything you would like to say to our audience?
"Unity is a beautiful rebellion."
Kenzie's dedication to her craft is evident, and her debut album, 'Greenstone Door', is a testament to her talent and vision. It's an album that invites listeners to join her on a journey, exploring themes of experience, indigeneity, truth, and growth. As Kenzie embarks on this exciting new chapter, she hopes to create a beautiful experience, both for herself and her audience. Her final message to listeners is a call for unity, a message that resonates deeply in today's world.
For more from Kenzie From Welly, follow her today on Instagram and Facebook.
