Man of the moment MNEK gives us quick insight into the sounds of his summer

Nineteen year-old South Londoner, MNEK (pronounced Em-en-ee-kay) is fast becoming one of the most significant contributors to British popular culture. A brilliantly innovative and distinctly perceptive intelligent singer, songwriter, producer and remixer MNEK manages to be singularly inimitable yet universally appealing. Whether inhabiting the worlds of house, dance, R&B or soul MNEK’s prodigious talent and popularity is growing exponentially. As a singer and songwriter, he recently scored a No.3 smash with Gorgon City’s hugely acclaimed ‘Ready For Your Love’. As a songwriter, he boasts a Grammy nomination and a No.1 single for Duke Dumont’s ‘Need U (100%)’

At 6’4 and a penchant for kufi hats and a high-top fade, the Catford teenager’s visual presence is as potently powerful as his brilliantly innovative sound. “I do look quite intimidating, but it’s not the case at all,” he laughs. “I’m built like a basketball player, but inside I’m a puny nerd who just wants to sing songs and make beats.”

Now MNEK’s blend of sultry, soulful vocals and bold soundscapes inspired by the best of 80’s and 90’s classics is set to make him a much-deserved solo star as he readies his debut single ‘Every Little Word’; a sonic reflection of his debut album and a taster of what’s to come. He kindly took the time out of his crazy-hectic schedule to give us his favourite tracks of the moment.

Jess Glynne – ‘Right Here’.

“Jess is my friend, and Gorgon City are also friends of mine (obviously), so hearing them together alongside Mr. Mark Crown on the trumpet, it’s a pretty massive tune! <3 it”.

Ella Eyre – ‘If I Go.

“She sounds so great on this. Her hair is still amazing. She still posts too many selfies with kitties”.

XO – ‘What’s Luv?’

“XO is a very talented producer from Stoke on Trent, and i’ve been following him for several years. This tune’s production is so solid, he’s also a skilled songwriter. Emma sounds amazing on this too. Check out another track by him called “Holdin’ On”.

Usher – ‘Good Kisser’.

“Usher is baaaaaccckkk. Such a tune, he sounds really great on this one and the vibe is so fresh…”

Just Kidding – ‘Thinking About It’

“I heard this at an Eton Messy club night last week, and me and my friends lost it. It’s so good, so catchy and it feels like it needs to be massive. If there’s any justice in the world”.

 

Words: Shane Hawkins.