In a world where melody’s echo the sentiments of society, Kenny J’s latest anthem, “You’re A Woman,” emerges as a resounding tribute to female resilience and empowerment. Released on International Women’s Day, this track serves as both a celebration of women’s achievements and a clarion call for gender equality. But what inspired this empowering ballad, and what does Kenny hope it conveys to women and girls worldwide? Let’s delve into the melody behind the message and explore Kenny’s journey through music and empowerment.
Kenny, “You’re A Woman” was released on International Women’s Day as a celebration of women’s achievements and a call for gender equality. What inspired you to create this empowering anthem, and what message do you hope it sends to women and girls around the world?
Kenny: The inspiration behind this song came out of the mind to continue to push the agenda positively. I believe as an artist it should be our goal to promote creativity that inspires and empowers. Too often there is a lack of positive energy through our music. I want to be on the side that promotes positive vibes. My hope is that women and girls around the world hone in on their values and feel empowered through the song.
As a singer, songwriter, and producer, you’ve had a diverse career spanning various genres from Hip Hop to R&B, Latin, and Gospel Music. How has your background influenced your musical style, and what can listeners expect from your upcoming album releasing in summer 2024?
Kenny: Being exposed to various genres of music helps facilitate the sound of the music. It widens the scope of where I can lend my talents. Understanding these genres in my skill-set helps me initiate the sound I’m looking for. The upcoming project this summer and beyond will reflect these nuances.
In “You’re A Woman,” you emphasize the importance of women feeling empowered and valued every day, not just on specific occasions like International Women’s Day or Women’s History Month. How do you believe music can play a role in promoting gender equality and empowering women in society?
Kenny: Music has always been a source of inspiration. Every platform in entertainment even in our daily lives has the essence of sound. From this perspective it would suggest the impact of music. Music can play a role in promoting gender equality, empowering women and even humanity by creating music that promotes change in these areas. Music should have a target; not just to stir negativity but to promote love, positivity and empowerment.
Kenny, growing up in Englewood, New Jersey, you were surrounded by influential musical talents like Silvia Robinson and Dizzy Gillespie. How did these influences shape your passion for music, and what lessons did you learn from their legacies?
Kenny: These influences facilitated the power that we have. There is so much talent in Englewood from sports and entertainment. I’m blessed to be from an area of great people. Mrs. Robinson is crowned for being responsible for introducing Hiphop to the world as Mr. Gillespie was one of the most influential “Jazz-est” of our time. Having lived where they lived is inspiring. If they can be apart of creating a space that changed culture then certainly I can try to do the same.
Throughout your career, you’ve been involved in various projects, from music production to performing with RIFF and contributing to Christmas albums. What have been some of the most memorable moments of your journey in the music industry so far, and how have they impacted your growth as an artist?
Kenny: Some of the most memorable moments in this journey is when your perspective can help people through their situations. I received a message from a woman that was going through a tough time. She wrote me thanking me for an interview I did where I expressed what my process was when I went through loss. She said that the interview was really instrumental in her healing. For me that is the response you’ll want as a creative. The impact that her message had meant the world. The feeling you get from those experiences pushes me even more to stay on this positive journey.
As someone with a multifaceted skill set, including playing numerous instruments and studying Music Technology, how do you approach the creative process when crafting your songs? Can you walk us through your songwriting and production process?
Kenny: Most times the creative process changes directions before it gets to the final. Sometimes I’ll start with a thought, sometimes it’s a melody. Sometimes it’s even a sound or even a rhythm. It’s never the same but the final is where the joy comes.
What are your aspirations and goals for your music career? Are there any specific projects or collaborations you’re excited about pursuing in the near future?
Kenny: My aspirations and goals are always to let the light shine through the music. There are many things on the table that have the potential to be great, I’m just excited for them all. I’m currently working on a couple of projects as the next few months are gonna be phenomenal. I’m excited with every opportunity I get to promote love, life, positivity and empowerment.
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