Myriam Boudine
Swedish musician Zikai is rapidly establishing herself in the industry with her distinctive fusion of pop and R&B sounds.
Drawing inspiration from influential artists like Drake, Jhene Aiko, and Kehlani, Zikai has crafted her signature style that sets her apart. Born and raised in Stockholm, Zikai grew up surrounded by the vibrant Swedish pop scene. While pop music has always held a special place in her heart, R&B has been a constant presence in her life.
Her journey into music started when she stumbled upon her brother's old keyboard. She recalls exploring different sounds and experimenting with her voice. As a talented singer, she quickly found her passion for writing songs, shaping her original sound. Her first song was titled 'Cold,' featuring Kanye West (a manifestation that will surely come true).
Having honed her craft in the studio, Zikai's EP, titled 'Don't Look at the Moon...,' is set to make waves. It promises to showcase her growth as an artist after two years in the making. In the EP, Zikai explores a new era in her life, experimenting with sounds and pushing boundaries. The red thread tying each track together is her captivating melodies, while the overall sound leans towards R&B with a pop vibe.
Naming Andre 3000 as a dream collaboration Zikai shared some valuable advice to aspiring musicians who may want to collaborate with her one day. She emphasises the importance of listening to one's instincts and trusting oneself. Amidst the overwhelming influence of the music industry, staying true to one's vision is crucial. Zikai admits that she learned this lesson through her own experiences and wishes she had embraced it earlier.
Reflecting on her journey, she confesses to initially losing sight of her voice in the music industry. However, she has found her way back to her authentic self, recapturing the confidence and clarity she had as a teenager. This rediscovery of her artistic vision has been transformative, propelling her forward in her career.
Beyond her music, Zikai mentioned her love for true crime and astrology, her passions clearly showing in her music with her mentioning one of her favourite song lines being: "I've been in a mood, my horoscope says don't look at the moon." It speaks to her introspective nature and her ability to tap into her emotions, creating music that resonates with listeners on a deep level.
Looking ahead, Zikai is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to tour and share her music with a live audience. She plans to create alternative versions of some songs to add even more dimension to her performances. After spending a significant amount of time in the studio, she is thrilled to finally step onto the stage and connect with her fans in person.
Zikai's journey as a rising Swedish music artist is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself. With her blend of R&B and pop sounds, she is carving a path for herself in the industry guided by her instincts and her love of music. As she continues to explore new territories in her artistry, Zikai is undoubtedly an artist to watch out for in the coming years.