Music is a powerful tool that can be used to impact lives positively; and upcoming singer K’son hopes to use his ‘message songs’ to do just that. Born Kofi Hanson-Asiedu in Ghana, he relocated to the United Kingdom to live with his mother at the age of 8.

Blessed with a squeaky clean and sweet voice, music and singing came naturally to K’son. He began by singing chart songs in the playground and occasionally being asked to sing in front of class. However, he knew he had a future in music when he was once singing at his older sister’s house and heard the approving “ooh you can sing you know!” from his sister. Since then, he has never looked back since.

K’son proceeded to the London Academy of Contemporary Music to perfect his gift of music. At school he learned to play the drums, bass, keyboard and guitar, which he progressed by ear. K’son has grown into a mature singer/songwriter open to several genres of music from classical to singing over hip-hop beats. He is very versatile and, at a glance, he has drawn comparison with many contemporary urban singers like Usher, Donnel Jones, Craig David, and even Michael Jackson .  The big difference, however, is in his songs, which he considers message songs. K’son is currently working oh his debut album, ‘K’sonology ’ which would be his introduction to the world. His debut single, ‘Shopping Spree’ should be released in 2 months but Jamati.com met with the budding singer to find out more about his music and his upcoming album.

Jamati: What kind of music do you do?
I do message songs over contemporary grooves. My music is honest. As an artist we all need to find our niche and this is mine. My music is a reflection of myself and as a result, I cannot be anything that I am not. I write and perform songs about life.

Jamati: What is the message in these songs?
Generally, the message is being true to yourself, and keeping your chin up through difficulties. One of my tracks ‘Suzy’s Song’ talks about a girl, now a woman, who was abused by her uncle. Something very common particularly in the African community yet no one really speaks of it.

Jamati: Do you consider yourself as a gospel artist and how do you manage to stay urban, positive and commercial?
I consider myself across the board. Often you find the saved reaching out to the saved, when it’s not them who need to hear the gospel the most. I try and leave at least one message in each song, in a commercial format to make it more palatable.

Jamati: Why did you choose K’sonology as the title of your debut album?
This is my premier album and as such is an introduction of myself to the world. Thus K’sonology – the study of….

Jamati: How would you describe the album?
At the moment I have completed 3 tracks for the album and still recording. It has a bit of everything from hip-hop beats, to classic slow jams.

Jamati: What are some of the songs on it and the message in them?
As mentioned, ‘Suzy’s Song’ is about child abuse. There’s a track called ‘I know’ which is a message to women that when love goes bad, do not take it out on the next guy that comes along, just dust yourself off and walk away. My debut single is called ‘Shopping Spree’. That is a track about a temptress who keeps pursuing despite knowing you have a partner. It’s like a battle with your conscience

Jamati: Who are your musical influences?
Too many to mention, I was listening to some Black Street last night. Miss those guys

Jamati: How much influence does the Academy of Contemporary Music have on your music?
Honestly, not a lot. Music is not one of those industries you need qualifications to succeed. It certainly opened my eyes to music business though

Jamati: When was your lucky break, your defining moment as a musician?
I’ve recently had the chance to meet some young, up and coming producers such as Hollerz and Rymez via MySpace. This has definitely changed the path of my career and there is a lot in the pipeline. Watch this space!

Jamati: What have been the challenges in your career so far?
Trying to meet other peoples schedules i.e. busy producers and mixers when you are good to go

Jamati: What is your opinion on contemporary African music?
Love the stuff. I generally do not go to any parties or events unless I know there will be some hiplife.

Jamati: How is the Ghanaian community responding to your music?
The Ghanaian community that I am aware of do not generally listen to a lot of R&B and soul, unless they have lived in the West for quite some time, from what I have noticed. But when people do find out I am Ghanaian, they are generally very proud.

Jamati: Are there any particular Ghanaian artists you would like to work with?
Yea, I would love to work with Samini, Ofori Amponsah, Kofi B, Kojo Antwi, and Screwface. I would definitely like to dabble in some hiplife and highlife just to cater to that market. I have already spoken to JQ briefly about doing a track for the album. If not on K’sonology then possibly my second album

Jamati: How do you see the music scene in the UK?
Everybody wants to do music and at the moment the big thing here is funky house. We do not have many Ghanaian artists based here, but the ones that are, generally tend to be involved in R&B and rap/hiphop.
Jamati: What do you hope to achieve in the future with your music?
I want these message songs to touch someone. We all want to affect lives! I would love to be able to record, and tour full time. Hopefully I the next five years, I would be signed to a label who understands my vision, putting out good and positive music full time and also being in a position to be able to bless others in anyway I can.

Learn more about this talented young man and his music at his website.