Brown is out now!
Image: Darryl dela Cruz.
Brisbane-based, alt R&B/indie artist King Ivy has delivered his debut EP, Brown. To celebrate the release, the musician has shared with MILKY five artists that inspire him.
“Going through heartbreak is a challenge in itself,” details King Ivy of the EP's opening track Red Velvet, “but believing you were cherished when that’s far from the case is hell.” He adds of Complicated, “Fast love is something I come across very often. Although I know it never leads to long lasting substance I still find myself being pulled in,” and says of Paranoid, “I didn’t intend to make a song like this but the headspace I was in at the time made the lyrics come to me easily." He describes Take my Love as “self-explanatory, because I tell it how it is,” and says of Refund, the EP's closer, “I wish you could get a refund on time-wasted on things that never mattered.”
The musician will be hitting the road off the back of the release, having already hosted an EP launch show at Black Bear Lodge in Brisbane. King Ivy is set to support Telenova on their forthcoming tour, visiting Maroochydore on June 2, the Gold Coast on June 3 and Byron Bay on June 4.
TEEZOTOUCHDOWN
As Tyler The Creator said, “Teezo is an alien in the best way possible”. I became an instant fan of his music after the first listen. His authenticity and unique creations really spoke to me and inspired me to be more open-minded and creative with my own music. Rather than placing restrictions or limitations on my creativity, I've learned to trust my instincts and do what feels right. His music reminds me that it's okay to be different and to stand out from the crowd, and that's a lesson I think we could all use.
DANIEL CAESAR
I feel like vulnerability is something that a lot of men struggle with. It can be hard for us to open up about certain situations because we feel the need to meet certain criteria of what a 'man' is. Since I was 14, I've been a fan of Daniel Caesar, and one thing I've always loved about him is his vulnerability. He speaks about all emotions and doesn't shy away from anything. He's real and relatable.
Not only is he my brother, but he is also one of the most inspirational artists to me. His unique style is characterized by effortless songwriting and beautiful melodies. I remember the first time I heard one of his songs; it was then that I knew music was his calling. Witnessing his growth as an artist has been truly amazing and inspirational.
DIJON
In my opinion, Dijon is one of the most talented artists of our generation. From his production to his songwriting and even his dope flows, he excels in every aspect of music. Whenever I listen to his music, I am reminded that there is always more work to be done, but in the best way possible. It's motivating to see an artist who is so skilled in every field of music, as that is something I aspire to be.
TYLER, THE CREATOR
As a viewer, I find artist development to be a fascinating thing to witness. It's incredible to see our favourite artists explore new sounds and discover what works best for them. Tyler, the Creator's journey of artistic development has been both amazing and wild to observe. Witnessing his evolution reassures me that growth is always possible, no matter where you are in your career.
Brown is out now!
KING IVY LIVE DATES
Fri 2 Jun | Supporting Telenova @ Solbar | Maroochydore, QLD | 18+
Sat 3 Jun | Supporting Telenova @ Vinnies Dive | Gold Coast, NSW | 18+
Sun 4 Jun | Supporting Telenova @ Beach Hotel | Byron Bay, NSW | 18+