We all know the feeling when young love turns into toxic obsession. Kingh, also known as Emily J O’Donnell, addresses these themes in her songs, along with mental vulnerability, empowerment, and love relationships. Based in London and having grown up between Milan and London, Kingh is not only a talented musician but also a successful model who has collaborated with renowned brands like Burberry, Nike, and Louis Vuitton. TITLE had the opportunity to speak with her about her sources of inspiration, the impact of the pandemic in the UK, and her upcoming EP, Yellow Diamonds.
At Title, we emphasize the importance of staying true to yourself, your art, and your identity. So, we asked Kingh about her true identity, and she shared, “I have always strived to stay true to myself and present the most genuine version of my art. My parents instilled in me the importance of embracing and building my identity, even if it means not fitting in. Finding the right space for my identity is crucial, and for me, it means being creatively and emotionally free.”
Growing up between Milan and England has had a definite impact on Kingh’s music. She explains, “Being exposed to such diverse cultural backgrounds influenced my musical taste, which still shapes my art today. While Milan and London are culturally different, I’ve always tried to stay connected to both. However, it was moving to London that truly enabled me to embark on my musical journey, as it provides more freedom for experimentation and finding my own path.”
When it comes to her songwriting process, Kingh reveals that every song is unique. Sometimes she starts with specific lyrics and concepts, while other times it begins with sounds and melodies. She emphasizes the importance of not getting stuck in one particular way of thinking and allowing the creative process to flow naturally.
Expressing emotional hardships through her music is vital for Kingh. She shares, “My music revolves around emotional hardships, as they serve as the wellspring of my ideas. It’s important for me to tell my stories and showcase how each experience can be empowering. Going through difficult times is part of the journey, and I believe in making a conscious decision to face and overcome them. It’s about embracing the struggle, shedding tears, feeling like your world is falling apart, and then finding the strength to return to your hustle.”
How has the current situation of the pandemic in the UK affected your everyday life?
It obviously has drastically affected me, but it has helped me find clarity. This forced slowed-down pace of life has really enlightened other aspects that I probably would have never noticed. I have a newfound respect for personal space and being alone in that space. I have also discovered that not everyone in your life is able to hold the same importance you attach to your personal space.
In what ways do you manage to stay creative on those days where you just feel uninspired? Has the pandemic increased the frequency of these kinds of days for you?
When I feel uninspired I don’t force it. I spent many months in my head waiting for great ideas, only to realize that the one thing I wasn’t doing was letting go and allowing the right space for those ideas. My creative process is very instinctive. I have all the tools I need to create in my own flat, so if I suddenly feel the urge to get an idea down I can write it, or record it, or paint it, or play it. My process and flow has a lot to do with comfort.
How did you find yourself creating music in multiple genres like Jazz, Hip Hop, modern Trap, and R&B?
I am very much influenced by a lot of music, I like to take elements from different genres and play with new sounds. I don’t concern myself with what genre I fall into, as long as it brings a vibe that is special and authentic to me. I make music because I love to make music, I don’t want to think about anything else at that moment.
What are you currently working on that we can look forward to in the near future?
My EP Yellow Diamonds is being released in the next few months, I am very excited, the project is a very personal and emotional but empowering journey. I am also working on another secret project that launches in September. I can’t say much about it.
Do you have any advice for newcomers trying to stand out in the overflowingly creative world of 2020?
Always be yourself, do not try and be somebody else, you. You don’t want to merge in with all the other people that don’t care to celebrate their authenticity. Being you is your selling point. Also, I would say to not think too much about where you fit in, just focus on developing and mastering your craft and everything will work itself out.
