Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, KaFi Kayzo is one of many artists creating a unique sound that’s ready to be heard by the masses.
Putting his own spin on New York’s reputable drill wave, the up-and-comer isn’t afraid to show his versatility, as proven so far throughout his catalogue. Connecting with his Portuguese and Caribbean roots, his unpredictable and fiery sound has turned heads and in turn, built him a growing fan base online. Kickstarting the new year with the visuals to ‘On Everything’, KaFi is ready to shake up a storm.
Born as Kyndell in Coney Island, KaFi spent most of his youthhood in Flatbush. For the past 15 years, KaFi has tirelessly worked to pursue his music career. At a very young age, KaFi would write poems, eventually leading him to write songs. Music to him is a therapeutic escape from the outside world, where he can express all of his experiences.
His latest single ON EVERYTHING features a raw piece of drill music that reflects his New York roots. Paired with a set of captivating visuals that correlate seamlessly with the tone of the track, KaFi Kayzo takes us around his local area for a blazing performance. Although raised in a small town, KaFi is stepping into the big leagues, spiraling upwards with every move made in the music realm.
We had the chance to interview KaFi and learn about his upbringing, creative process, and aspirations for the future.
Where is home?
Home to me is Brooklyn New York! I lived in NY for most of my life. The saying no place like home hits different with this one. New York is flooded with culture. You can find some of the best food here from all over the world. You can find all types of fashion. Brooklyn is a beautiful place. But it’s also known for its ruff and tuff ways. Wouldn’t be a true New Yorker without it. The walk is different! The talk is different! Go anywhere in the world without saying it. They will know you are from NY. It’s the home of Biggie. Just can’t go wrong in a place like this. Just too expensive lol.
What was the defining moment you realized you wanted to do music?
The defining moment I realized I wanted to do music was from the rush I got every time I got behind the microphone. The anxious feel you get before arriving to the studio. I remember how excited I used to get just to go over my bro’s house to write. I got overly addicted to the playback. Hearing myself through the speakers and the reaction from friends kept me going. I knew it was in me. At the time it was just so fresh to realize. I just knew I would forever fall in love with recording.
Music is all about expression, what do you like expressing in your work?
In my music, I express a lot of pain and anger. But I also try to touch on confidence. When you say my raps out loud or in your head. I want you to believe in every word. The message I try to give off is believe in yourself even when you feel misunderstood. Life is what you make it. If you feel like a boss. Don’t talk about it be about it. Don’t worry about other people’s opinions. Take a loss as a lesson and boss up every time. Fall down 4 get up 5.
You released your most recent single, TOUCHDOWN, last month- What was it like to create this single? What inspired the lyrics and message of the song?
I recorded this record as soon as I came back from London. I was already in my zone. These lyrics are me talking crazy but that’s the best part. There is a lot of ways to express yourself on a beat. This is one of the records where I came out swinging. In your face with the vocals. I was having fun at the same time. It’s a vibe for anyone having an active day or simply hitting the gym. It’s like a hit of coffee on a Monday morning! Touchdown means I’m here to stay. Also, the UK is my second home. I’m sure my fans can tell by now. Work is being done as we speak. Front line and behind the scenes. Expect some great things to come in the future.
Prior to releasing TOUCHDOWN, you dropped the single ON EVERYTHING. What inspired the music video for this song? What was the process of making it like?
My whole team inspired me to put out a video for ON EVERYTHING. During the recording process in London. We all felt good about it. It already gave off dark vibes. The lights was off during this whole recording process now that I think about it lol So we decided to base the video off that feeling alone. Not because I like the color black a lot lol. Everyone dressed up in all black is deeper than just a look. We are all on the same page. It also represents my shadow. These are the people in my corner. Not if but when I do win we all win. It’s a way bigger picture than me. At least that how I carry it.
What is your creative process like? What do you typically experience when making a song?
My creative process is actually very simple. I duck off where it’s quiet. Go through emails or beats online. When I find a few that I like. I save them to my notes. Keep everything well organized. The next couple of days I’ll break it down to that one beat that kept my attention. Sometimes you have to hear it over and over. Some sounds get irritating quickly. I’ll get to mumbling under my breath to find a nice rhythm. Then fill it in with words. Works every time for me. You can’t rush any of this. It’s part of the cook-up. When you rush cooking food you might miss a few ingredients. Now, you’re stuck with something that doesn’t represent you to your full potential. Never rush greatness. I mean that! When it comes to me everything has to be just right. I’m a perfectionist all the way. I’m hard on myself but only because I want better each time.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
The last thing to inspire me was my last trip to London. As a team, we got so much done. It’s so much more work to get done. After 15 years you would think ‘What else can I talk about?’. My life can fill pages of the biggest book. So don’t expect me to slow down anytime soon. The friendships, the business taking place is all just getting started. I’m excited to see how far this takes me. I just know everything out into this will pay off.
How much has your sound changed since you started making music? How would you describe your sound?
My sound has changed completely in the past 3 years. Ask anyone close to me. I flipped it completely. I found my sound and I’m happy with it. No looking back. So if you want the old KaFi. Check out my old work. Im involving every day, ever second. I’m still learning me. Every song just gets better and better for a reason. Stay focused and being consistent is key.
As an emerging artist today, what would you say are some of the challenges you face?
Some of the challenges I face is money. I give a lot to receive a little in return. But I understand it’s the process. Even though I’m broke a lot of the time. People think I’m lit but my journey is tough more than you think. I get looked over by the people you expect to support you. I have even been finessed out of my money and got nothing in return. You have to pray and believe things will eventually get better. You won’t have a lot to show in the beginning and that’s ok. As long as you’re working on you everything else will follow up. I wish we had the money. Maybe we would be in that door already with less knowledge. So shout out home team.
If you could go back in time and give your past self advice, what would it be?
If I could go back in time and give my past self advice I would say, don’t put so much pressure on yourself. Life is an experience. Enjoy the up and downs for what it is. Try not to overthink. Most importantly never forget to find the joy in whatever you love to do. Everything will be ok and hard work really does pay off. I can’t believe I made it this far, to be honest. But seriously love yourself. Also, have fun in your twenties. Stop trying to be grown. Go out and f**k up! It’s worth it. Just make sure when it’s time to bout back you get serious.
The Fox Magazine is all about inspiration, what/who inspires you the most?
My mum inspires me. She a strong person and she didn’t make a weak son. She pushes me to be the best I can be. She’s the only one who really check on my mental health and I love her so much for that. She knows what I been through and put her through it at the same time. What I been through the last few years just off music alone is hectic but I’m still here because of her. I’m fighting the fight because of her. I’ll be dammed if she doesn’t see her baby boy win. I will make her proud if it’s the last thing I get to do. Mumma! I LOVE YOU! she knows that! My journey scares her but I know she believes in me like crazy.
What motto, quote, or words to live by do you use to stay motivated when you aren’t feeling inspired?
Even if you know something, act like you don’t. This has taken me a long way. Playing the cut you don’t just learn what to do. You learn what not to do as well.
Another one is “one hand can’t clap without the other”. Super thankful for my team and the foundation we’ve built from nothing. Peace and love to all of them!
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