AKA Kelzz – ‘The Drama Series’
Berlin-based singer-songwriter, AKA KELZZ has set a precedent with their latest release: ‘The Drama Series’ – an audio TV show. A DIY bedroom production, the EP explores a journey of thoughts and feelings people “may have been hiding from”. A gentle start with the first track – ‘Intro’, the subtle mixture of neo-soul and a chill groove whisks audiences through AKA KELZZ’s internal challenges and personal battles. Tickling your senses with an uplifting resolution, the body of work encompasses influences from artists such as Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and India Arie.
‘The Drama Series’ was produced by talented and multi-instrumentalist Rafa Mura, igniting multiple collaborations since October 2020. Rafa Mura has continued to push boundaries and expand the sound of AKA Kelzz, whilst continuing to create the deep and impactful messages to share with their audiences. A producer and close friend, the partnership was a shining light moment when Kelzz started to sink into their own sound. Using basslines and percussion that give listeners a hug, Kelzz dominates with a voice that makes you listen.
“When you look at me, remove any assumptions that you may have and enjoy the simplicity and creativity of the music while the words do the work” AKA KELZZ
Growing up in the UK with a musical family, Kelzz always wished to create their own art. Whilst working to find their own voice, Kelzz faced several difficulties and prejudices – they were unable to see where they would fit and be visible. Being scrutinised for looks, voice, and identity, AKA Kelzz eventually redefined the industry’s standards to fit their own. Scarce representation in music has motivated Kelzz to support change when creating spaces for folks that do not fit into the European standard of beauty. As a queer non binary person, intersectionality and uplifting BIPOC communities is imperative to AKA Kelzz. Fulfilling the desire to make music and display their authentic selves, it’s a motivation to platform the voices of dark skinned black folks who are almost certainly erased and never seen as important.
Enduring such barriers, journaling proved a form of empowerment to AKA Kelzz, by writing their feelings and emotions in a safe space it aided the creation of future songs. Moving to Berlin was a creative catalyst, expanding boundaries through collaboration. After numerous bands and break ups, the pandemic proved the ideal time to evolve, scale down and learn how to independently produce their own music.
