King Solomon talks about his latest release Illuminate the Dark
We recently interviewed King Solomon about his life, music and particuarly the recent release Illuminate the Dark.
Twist Online : First of all tell us about the start of your professional career?
King Solomon : Well to be honest, my professional career is only just beginning really. I’ve been making music since I was about 11 years old, and when I was about 15 I released an unofficial single called ‘Hands Up’ that literally cannot be found by anyone who doesn’t know me personally anymore. Now I’m 20 and I’ve just released my official debut album ‘Illuminate the Dark’ (more about that later). I’m currently an independent artist and I’m honestly loving all the freedom that comes with that, so this album launch is literally just the result of me and all the people who support me giving it our all. My ‘career’ as it were, wouldn’t exist without the people around me.
Twist Online : Who or what inspired you to get into music industry?
King Solomon : Well, I mentioned earlier that I started writing music when I was 11, and that was so long ago that to be honest I’m not sure exactly what it was that got me writing. I mean, music kind of runs in the family, but I don’t think that that’s where the inspiration really came from. Anyway, around 15 there was this kind of realization that I had about the type of artist that I wanted to be. For me that’s when my current path was set, I decided that I wanted to make music with a message as well as sounds to inspire people to aspire for more, and since then I’ve drawn inspiration from artists like Lecrae, NF and Chance the Rapper.
Twist Online : You recently released your debut album ‘Illuminate the Dark’. Tell us more about that.?
King Solomon : Gladly. It’s a 13 song album available on all major streaming platforms. I’m especially proud of it because like I said before it’s a completely independent release. While I don’t consider myself a gospel rapper for, complicated reasons, this is definitely a primarily faith driven album as it delves in to the depths of spirituality and what it means to be far from God, as well as what a journey back to that place is like having been distant for so long. If each song is listened to in order it tells a sort of story, or rather, highlights the phases that someone on a journey such as this is likely to experience. It’s brutally honest at times, a quality that I feel a lot of music of the same niche is missing nowadays.
Twist Online : Any particular track(s) of the album that’s your favorite?
King Solomon : Hah, I love them all so much. That’s like asking me which of my kids I’d want to save in a fire…. It’s probably Sinking though. It’s one of the most honest and heartfelt songs on the album, and the guy that featured, ёrin HEBREWS is absolutely phenomenal as well. That mixed in with the tone, music and production quality make for an enjoyable track and probably the one that I’ve played most… A close second would be Rise or Everybody Cries though.
Twist Online : What kind of response you have received from the release?
King Solomon : So far it’s all been positive. I’m still in Uni, so I haven’t had as much time to promote the album as I’d like, but the feedback I’ve gotten so far has all been positive. It’s been going so well that I’m a little scared to jinx it even. This is my first try at this after all so, some constructive criticism (and a sprinkle of hate) was always expected, but so far we seem to be in the clear.
Twist Online : What attracts you more, performing on stage or working in studios?
King Solomon : Oh DEFINITELY working in studios. In fact when I started making music I never even once considered that it meant I would have to perform it. I’m actually terrified of big crowds, I kinda have stage fright but I’m working on it. I’m definitely more of a studio guy though.
Twist Online : What’s your favorite music genre?
King Solomon : Is it tacky to say that I listen to everything? I feel like it is, and a little untrue… Hmm, as a rapper I’d like to go with Rap as a default. I mean I like other styles of music but most of them integrate with rap in some way so yeah.
Twist Online : Have you set some target to achieve as a music artist?
King Solomon : Well the motto is sounds to inspire, so right now my aim is just to reach as many people as possible and encourage them to be the best version of themselves they can be. I’m not looking to hit any particular number of fans, or get any specific amount of plays, and the album has paid options for those who want to ‘donate’ but it’s out for free so it’s not about the money either. I just love making music, and I feel it’s one of the clearest and most impactful gateways to the soul so, yeah. I think that’s it.
Twist Online : Are you currently working on any other project?
King Solomon : All the time. It’s actually a problem lol. I gotta keep it hush hush for now but in the next couple months I may drop something here or there so stay tuned for that.
Twist Online : Are you active on social media? What’s the best way to follow you online?
King Solomon : That I am. The best place to connect with me is on Instagram @kingsol_music. I love getting in touch with fans, creatives and just general music lovers alike so, come one come all. Thanks!
