Q&A: Apple Music Up Next Local artist, Kedus

We’re excited to announce that the fifth artist to be announced as part of Apple Music’s Up Next Local series is none other than Kedus.

The Up Next Local series is dedicated to identifying and showcasing rising talent across Australia and New Zealand, and emerging Brisbane artist, Kedus is here to bring us his soulful interpretation on the R’n’B genre.

Reaching a level of depth and introspect that extends beyond his youthful years, Kedus might predominantly create within the realm of R’n’B, but that doesn’t mean he limits his inspiration sources to the genre, allowing the result of his music to combine layered elements of soul, jazz, trap, hip-hop, dancehall and indie music.

He’s also taking it global, having been recently featured in Apple Music US playlists including: New in R&B and Radio + ALT R&B. Off the back of releasing his latest track ‘Sunset Dream’, we were lucky enough to get to know Kedus on a deeper level, talking about his secret weapon when it comes to music and more.

What is one thing that has helped keep you going during this global pandemic?
I think being able to make music has been an important factor as well as trying to better myself over this period.

Take us through how you developed your music style?
I’ve experimented with different genres in the past so my musical style is ever-changing but being able to make my old mixtapes was a very important part of developing my sound.

What do you see as your secret weapon when it comes to your music?
I think my ability to utilise different genres to convey a feeling or message.

Tell us about your latest single; how it started, what it’s about, and anything else you’d like to share about it.
When the single was first made it started with a feeling that the beat gave me, and then I was able to freestyle the pre-chorus and write the rest of the track from there. It was also a fun experience making the video with Jaen and Aaron.

What are five attributes you think an artist needs to have in order to have career longevity in this music industry?
I think being who you are is important, creating a connection to the listener, personality, being vulnerable and enjoying the process of making music.

Why do you make music? What’s your great big ‘why’?
I want to inspire with my music, create a vibe for the listener, and speak to people through music.

What’s something that you’re really excited about right now?
I think having the opportunity to be the next up artist for apple music

If we gained access to a few songs you have on repeat at the moment, what would we find?
‘Feel No Ways’ by Drake, ‘Special Affair’ by The Internet and ‘Come Alive’ by Two Another.

What’s something your fans don’t know about you, but you want to share with them?
I like playing basketball.

What does Apple Music’s support through Up Next mean to you?
An exciting opportunity to connect with people through the universal language that is music.

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