DK, the new voice in African R&B

UK based Nigerian R&B singer/songwriter DK aka Don Kolionny is a hot, new talent to the emerging African R&B scene and is already drawing comparisons to the likes of Ne-Yo. Born Kola Olatunji, in Lagos, Nigeria, DK’s love with music started at the tender age of 10 when he was the youngest member of his secondary school choir. Through his father’s record collection he was exposed to different styles of music as a child, including Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, King Sunny Ade as well as Gospel artists.

DK started writing songs at age 15 and his first live performance was at Lekki Beach Carnival in Lagos with Green Squad, a group which included his brother TK Rosky and friend Drillz. His songwriting talents developed further when he started playing the keyboard.

On relocating to London in 2002 DK’s love for music flourished and he performed at open mic events at bars and clubs, including the well-known Suga Suga in London’s West End. DK also began making beats and eventually met a producer Boogi3 with whom he co-produced some of the songs for his forthcoming album. One of these songs, “2Nite”, has already been featured on BBC 1Xtra on the UK Homegrown radio show, presented by taste-making DJ Ras Kwame.

DK has developed a powerful, unique song-writing and singing style that enables him to deliver smooth songs and hard-hitting party jams with ease. His lyrics are made up of a blend of English and his native Yoruba language. “I Sing about Love and things happening around me. My inspiration comes from God and also what I see, other people’s experience and my personal experiences. My musical influences include Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, Maxwell, Bob Marley, Usher, Boys II Men” comments DK on his brand of music.

His debut single, ‘Shake’ is a feel-good party song which invites the ladies to dance and shake to his infectious flow. The video was produced and directed by Mr Skillz (aka JJC) and is already blowing up the airwaves on Nigerian and UK TV. He has performed at some major concerts like Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA) in Washington DC, Kennis Music Easter Fiesta in Nigeria among others.

The independent R&B singer is working on his yet-to-be released debut album and according to him it would contain a good mix of love song and party songs. His new /second single and video ‘Waa Last’ is currently in the top 10 playlist in Nigeria, a sign of great things to come out of the album. As an unsigned artist, DK makes the most of the internet and social networking platforms in promoting his music. DK comments: “I use the internet to link up to as many people as possible and for uploading tracks and videos. I also use these platforms to keep people informed on my activities and performances. Thank God for Facebook!”

DK who is currently in Nigeria promoting his new single says Nigerian music is getting better and gaining momentum rapidly but was quick to add that some artists need to improve on their lyrical contents. According to him, the biggest challenge he faces as an artist is promoting and getting music airplay on radio and TV especially in Nigeria. He wishes to become a recognized and respected artist worldwide, capable of influencing lives of less privileged people and also to show people that artists can be good positive role models. Listen and Download the song.