Displaying items by tag: Michael Kiwanuka

Michael Kiwanuka combines roots and soul with such old-school, retro-sounding technique, it's hard to believe he's a rising star -- let alone a 24-year-old.  Kiwanuka is of Ugandan descent and grew up in Muswell Hill, London. 

In 2012, XPN listeners heard Michael Kiwanuka on World Cafe in April, as the June Artist to Watch, as July’s CD of the Month, at a Free at Noon, and at a show at the Trocadero. His first album showcases his voice, a voice that he describes as “hitting straight to the core,” and his “real, raw, and achingly beautiful” lyricism.

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Michael Kiwanuka combines roots and soul with such old-school, retro-sounding verve. He's released three EPs in the last year alone, including one that so impressed Adele, she invited Kiwanuka to tour with her!

July, 2012 CD of the Month

There are some artists that just don’t act their age. And in the case of XPN Aritst To Watch Michael Kiwanuka, that's a good thing! The fact that this singer-songwriter is in his early 20’s will be the last thing to come to mind (if at all) when you make your way through his debut album Home Again. Kiwanuka is the latest in a wave of British soul and R&B singers to captivate audiences. And while connections to his peers like Adele exist, he paves his own path to our ears with the songs of Home Again.

There are some artists that just don’t act their age. And in the case of XPN Aritst To Watch Michael Kiwanuka, that's a good thing! The fact that this singer-songwriter is in his early 20’s will be the last thing to come to mind (if at all) when you make your way through his debut album Home Again. Kiwanuka is the latest in a wave of British soul and R&B singers to captivate audiences. And while connections to his peers like Adele exist, he paves his own path to our ears with the songs of Home Again.

There are plenty of albums to get excited for in 2012, whether it’s a band like The Shins, local favorite’s ala Dr. Dog or new voices that have begun to buzz like Lana Del Rey. However, towards the end of 2011 there’s another name we couldn’t resist and after spending a little time with his two EPs, it’s hard not to become a believer in Michael Kiwanuka. At just 24 years old, the British soul singer possesses that rare blend of talent, artistic integrity and natural charm. So as we begin the year, we’ll spotlight both EP’s Michael has recently released; I’m Getting Ready and Tell Me A Tale.