Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is a worldwide phenomenon. There are many that have no idea what EDM is or represents, but those that do are saving money and taking pictures and making treks for their next lifelong highlight experience. And the name Vanessa Vonroe can’t go unmentioned when talking about Kenyan EDM music.
After hearing so much of her good music, which is not so popular in Kenya, i sought out to know much about Vanessa Vonroe; who I can comfortably say is Kenya’s Queen of EDM. Here’s a short interview between Ghafla and Vanessa, who’s on her early 20’s.
“Though EDM is my main genre, I do experiment with different beats sometimes that have 80’s and 90’s undertones or futuristic tones. A lot of my musical inspiration comes from past generations especially the 60’s up to the 90’s or from futuristic sounds which is where EDM comes in. As an artist I try to stay flexible but still true to my roots. That means I am also inspired by a lot of African music.
I am currently partnered with Lectronica Circle and together we have released two songs. The first one was called “Want You Around”, the second was a tribute to our country, titled “Kenya”. We released it as part of the Kenya at 50 Celebrations. Along with the official “Sajan Gosrani remix” it has received really awesome feedback.
1. When did you start doing music
When I was about 5 I remember listening to Bryan Adam’s song “Everything I Do” on the radio. I was fascinated by how it touched my heart and I wanted to one day write and sing a song for someone that had the same effect on them as his song did on me. At 9 my mum took me to the studio in school to start recording. My dad urged me to write my own music as opposed to singing covers, so when I was about 12 I started to write.
2. Who influenced you into this genre
Not so much who as what – the whole EDM, house, and trance music culture. But if I had to say who, it’d be Avicii, he’s one of my biggest inspirations in music. I fell into this music and I fell in love with it. I wanted to be a part of the magic. Anyone who loves EDM will tell you that the best way to explain why is to have a listen for yourself. When I am listening to my favourite tracks it brings me to life.
3. Who produces the beats
I am currently working on an album with Lectronica Circle – they are EDM producers and DJs. They create the beats and I bring the vocals and lyrics. The songs are produced by Majic Mike at the Red Republik studio. I chose to work with them because they are extremely talented and skilled at what they do, they always think outside the box and I myself am a fan of their work.
4. Do you think Kenyan Market is ready for Electric Dance Music?
For sure. If you look at Kenyans not just locally, but across the world, they are making waves in sports, the arts and business. Mpesa made an impact globally – ofcourse at first people were nervous to try it but it’s so popular now. Also, this music has been here for a while, there are very many successful established EDM DJ’s and artists such as Bamzigi. There are events held solely for people who love this music. There’s a small community that is starting to grow and I have every faith in it. I’m aware that this type of music isn’t for everyone; you can’t make everyone happy, but you should always do what makes you happy 🙂
5. Do you get shows as far as your style of music is concerned?
Last year I had quite a few amazing shows, some small and some big. The organisers had so much faith in my music, even as an upcoming artist with a very new genre and for that I am so grateful. There is a really big EDM community, not just in Nairobi, but across Kenya. I performed in Thika once last year and was happily surprised to find fans there too. I do a lot of shows along with Lectronica Circle as they DJ, including the very successful Daylight Festival II last November. I get really shy sometimes to be honest, and I can be a self-saboteur which meant I wouldn’t go on stage, but this year I have more resolve. I live and learn.
6. What’s the greatest thing that you’ve achieved through music so far?
I can say that my greatest achievement starting this journey was receiving “Musician of the Year” as a teen at my high school (Greensteds school). It was the beginning for me, in the place where it all began; the first place I spread my wings and some of the first people to believe in me so it means so much to me.
7. Are there any main acts that you’ve shared the stage with?
Madtraxx, Ndegz, Lectronica Circle, Kora, Haimanot Armide, Fena, Kagwe Mungai, Uko Flaani Mau Mau
8. Are you still schooling?
Yes, I’m almost done with university.
9. Do you get airplay on TV or Radio?
KTN’s Str-up have been so supportive. They introduced our first release “Want You Around” last year, and in November we launched our new song “Kenya” on the show too. There are many shows, DJs and presenters who have aired the videos and songs but it is still really hard for upcoming artists in general in the Kenyan music industry. It’s also tough because EDM is so new so there’s not much space created for it.
10. Where do you see yourself in a few years from now?
I have so many dreams and aspirations but ultimately I am in God’s hands. As long as I continue to put all my heart into what I do, He will breath into it. The sky is the limit!
Here’s a Link to listen to Vanessa’s music, and know why she’s the queen’
www.soundcloud.com/vanessavonroe
You can also catch up with her on Facebook: Vanessa Vonroe & Twitter: @VanessaVonroe
