Singer/Songwriter MNEK is promising us the “black, gay, pop experience,” in the best way that he can deliver it.
MNEK is starting to make a name for himself with mainstream audiences, but what many don’t realize is that he’s been in the music industry for nearly a decade.
Since he was 14, MNEK, real name Uzoechi Emenike, has been creating music for other people. He’s written and produced songs for musicians like Beyonce, Bastille, Madonna, Little Mix, Christina Aguilera, Diplo, Dua Lipa, BTS, and more.
But now, he feel’s its time to finally make music for himself.
"I'm so proud of it, it's been such a long time coming," he told Newsbeat during the Parklife festival in Manchester.
"I've made enough money from other people's records so I have to want to do this," he explains.
"It would be great if it did well but I don't have to put out records of my own."
MNEK says he wants to not only present himself to the world, but also give us a different kind of pop star.
"I don't think there's been many chances for people to see a black, gay, pop experience and that's what I want to have with my shows moving forward."
That said, it won’t be easy for MNEK. He’s got to put a lot of work into growing his name and image, but he’s willing to take the time to do it.
"I want more people to know who I am and I want to have the chance to tease my music a bit more."
"All of it takes some time unless you're like Rihanna where you just plonk it on streaming services."
MNEK’s album will be out sometime later this year.
In the meantime, check out the lyric video for his latest single “Colour.”
