Spirituality is defined as “The quality that involves deep feelings and beliefs of a religious nature, rather than the physical parts of life.” The premise is that our lives have significance in a context beyond our day-to-day existence.
The concept of spirituality is a recurring theme in the life of 18-year-old west Londoner, writer, poet and singer Kesensa. Although, describing her as a west Londoner could be selling her short.
Being home schooled allowed Kesensa to travel the world, visiting places like Jamaica, America and Benin on her journeys. This unconventional yet insightful childhood enabled Kesensa to ‘look at aspects of life beyond myself’.
Turning 18 was a poignant moment in her life as it was the day she released her debut single, ‘4 Another Rotation’, a song about giving thanks to God. https://ditto.fm/4-another-rotation.
The track immediately lures you in with a soothing guitar, allowing Kesensa to compliment the background instrument with her soft and soothing vocals. The hook emphasises the importance of spirituality: “Give all thanks to the most high for another rotation, every day is a celebration.”
Kesensa’s travels have led her to develop a varied taste in music, ranging from Nas to J.Cole to Jamaican artist D-Yani and Mustafa the Poet from Canada.
However, Kesensa pays homage to singer-songwriter Lauren Hill, whose The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill remains her sole solo studio album. Kesensa exultantly says: “Who can you name that has released a body of work which spans 3 decades? Amazing.”
When reflecting on the future Kesensa says that despite her various interests, music will take precedence: “With music you can feel the rhythm. It tells the story in a better way.”
With bucket loads of potential and an unwavering belief in God, things are looking bright for Kesensa. Her final words are probably a better summary of her as an individual than anything I could muster: “It’s not up to me where music takes me. Whatever door God opens for me, that’s what’s meant to be”.
Written by: Gerry Otim
Email: gerryotim@hotmail.co.uk
Instagram: @MidKnightGaz
