Today we’d like to introduce you to Kxtana.
Hi Kxtana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I’ve always been a creative. Fashion, art, acting. You name it. Yet, I didn’t get into music until I was 19 and met my friend, Gems. She’s a DJ, and she showed me everything about music production and what she does at her venues. So, I thought to myself, “why not try this avenue of creativity,” After years of learning and failing and improving, I became a phenomenal performer. However, I was focusing too much on sounding “not like me.” Too much like Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, etc. I love them, but that’s not me. I can take bits and pieces of them and apply it to my character, but that’s not me. I’m a nerd. I love taking about anime and East Asian Pop culture.
Where this all changed was when I listened to this K-pop group called Stray Kids. They changed my whole world. That’s when I realized I can rap in Japanese because I know that language, and it helps make the flow of my verses sound interesting and different to the Western ear. I learned I can talk about anime. I learned my fashion sense. K-pop has literally awakened my sense of music direction, and I feel so confident in the direction my music is going.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Making connections is always the hardest part. Especially in places where people only want to know you if you have clout. It’s always until you find the right one who wants to genuinely follow your journey. The road is never smooth. Even if it feels smooth you are going to hit a bump or a steep curve.
Finances were another struggle. Promoting your music takes A LOT of money and sponsorship. You need fans to make your numbers grow, but you need numbers to make your fans grow.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a queer artist that focuses on removing the boundaries of standard hip-hop and allowing an inclusive space for us in this genre. I Japanese rap into my music with experimental trap and unique sounds.
What are your plans for the future?
Growing and becoming a household name. I have big plans, great music videos, and killer songs releasing this year!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Theonlykxtana
- Twitter: @theonlykxtana
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/@theonlykxtana/featured
- Other: Solo.to/theonlykxtana
Image Credits
Kyle McGuin
DJ Cass
