This week we were lucky enough to catch up with the sensational Oslo-born singer-songwriter, K-Syran. Talking about what’s in store for this year; her Billboard Chart hit, her theatre productions and what inspires her, Katrina gives us an intimate look into the world of K-Syran. With such a diverse sound, merging elements of classical, pop, rock, jazz and techno, K-Syran is unique and mesmerising. Read more about K-Syran and how she’s developed her creative genius below.
Hey K-Syran, how’s 2017 shaping up for you so far?
It’s a super exciting year. Lots of new music coming out and some live events planned, too. I love the creative part the most; working in my studio writing new songs gives me a complete high.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where you’re from, what you do etc? Simple stuff.
I was born in Oslo and lived an idyllic childhood. Wasn’t Norway nominated the happiest country in the world recently? My parents sent me off at eighteen to go to Aix-En-Provence and it was the best thing they could have done. After 8 months, I started drama school in the UK at RADA and Guildhall School Of Music & Drama where I was lucky enough to get lead parts in the West End. My passion is writing so I’ve written and produced plays, films and now music. I don’t believe I would survive if I couldn’t continue to express myself.
We see you had a Billboard chart hit. Tell us all!
It’s incredible. My play, ‘Breaking The Silence‘, got invited to play at the UN and Soho Playhouse in NY. The press agent is a lovely lady who heard my album, SMOKE IN MY VEINS, and she fell completely in love with it. The rest is history. I would never ever have dreamt of competing with such big names, seeing your name up with Adele, Sia and Coldplay feels completely surreal.
What inspires you to make the music you make?
My personality. I love telling stories and I’m very lucky because melodies just come to me.
What is your songwriting process like? Is it usually fluid or more structured?
I will write something every day. Whatever inspires me that day, my emotions, something I’ve read, something I’ve heard; then I will go to my studio and improvise melodies. I listen back and pick out my favourite bits.
Do you come from a musical background?
Yes, my father plays every instrument under the sun and he also sings. My mum sings too and my childhood was filled with music and joy.
When did you decide to make music your main focus? Is it something you’ve always known was your calling?
Not really. I knew from the age of five was something that acting is what I wanted to do, but being a pop artist is something that has happened over the last five years.
Where and when do your other creative outlets such as directing and acting take the lead? Possibly in your own videos? We’ve noticed you star in a lot of them.
I am super proud of all my theatre plays. I’m passionate about women and all my plays are about women and finding ways to help them. I strongly believe that if you help women you help everyone. I love women and think that everyone should. Filming is also fun, especially if you play a meaty part. I’ve been working on a film now about loneliness and isolation and it’s been a fascinating journey. I also love using my music videos to express something the public can feel connected to.
Are there any musicians you’d like to work with in the future?
There are so many. I loved making the duo with Amelle ex-Sugababes and loved working with Blue on the U.K. tour in 2015. There are so many talented and exciting artists out there it would be hard to choose. Just now, the musicians from INXS and ex-drummer of Michael Jackson are working on my next single out in LA. Can’t wait to hear it.
What upcoming projects do you have in the works at the moment? What can we expect from K-Syran for 2017?
New album coming out! Some live shows and lots of surprises I hope.
To hear more of K-Syran’s incredible music and watch some of her edgy music videos, check out her socials below.
