Kewen On the Making Of ‘Chapters’
How does 'Chapters' reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
I think 'Chapters' has a very symbolic meaning to my songwriting journey because it is a literal metaphor about the "chapters of life" as mentioned in the song. I was going through a lot in my life at the time and that combined with coming out of lockdown made me feel like my life is ready for the next 'chapter'. Little did I know it would become one of my best-written songs and the title song of my new project! It felt very apt to make the title of a project something like that. I think the song reflects the production and effort we have put into the entire album as there has been a major step up from my previous work.
Can you talk about the recording and production process for 'Chapters?'
The recording process of 'Chapters' took 2 years in the making and an entire year to get together the album release campaign and all the behind-the-scenes and live videos we are doing for it. The reason it took so long is because we crafted every single track very carefully and as well as managing expenses, we had to get everybody together at the same time which was difficult. There was also the issue of COVID and restrictions there which delayed the initial starting process of the album. We got into the flow pretty quickly though with my producer Olly and current bassist Hannah. Some creative decisions did prolong the recording of the album (like having an 11-minute song on there!).
Which song do you like the best and why?
I really cannot answer this question. But if I had to pick then it would probably be the title track 'Chapters' as previously stated, it’s a very significant and one of the best and catchiest I've ever written I believe. I've always wanted a sax solo in a song too and that's what we've done here.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
I enjoy the natural energy the most when performing live and people appreciating you and singing along. There's nothing like it, even when you're in the audience, I love going to gigs and feeling that energy and also watching talent in full force. Being appreciated for your original music is an even better feeling.
Can you share a memorable experience from a collaboration that enriched your music?
We collaborated with a lot of people for this project but I think one of the standouts for me is the closing track 'A Decade'. A very personal song to me with a deep meaning, I wanted something special composed. And not only did my producer and good friend Olly knock it out of the park with the solo but a composer called Jonny Winter put together something really special for the string arrangement that was replicated for one of our live sessions. He wrote something utterly beautiful for that and I am forever grateful.
