Caturday with Kirby

From writing for artists such as Ariana Grande and Beyoncé to working on her own beautiful music which features a futuristic soul wildlife, there is nothing KIRBY can’t do. Combining romanticism, realism with the middle-man of an autobiographical and lyrical style, KIRBY is definitely an artist to look out for. As someone who had their eye and ears on the talented artist for a long time I was lucky enough to ask KIRBY about her artistic process, her impressive resumé, and what is to be expected from the artist moving forward. 

Lavina Woods: Your new EP, Sis. He wasn’t the one, is a continuation of your SIS EP from 2020. Why create a two-part EP?
Kirby: I think it’s naturally where my life transitioned to. I wanted to make sure to tell the entire story. For me the chapter now feels complete. 

LV: Your EP is very vulnerable and autobiographical. There’s lots of narrative surrounding all types of love, romantic and self-love. Why was this important to you? Is there anything specific you’re trying to tell the world with these songs/EPs?
K: Essentially I’m talking to myself with these records. I’m still learning to believe I can have long term happiness and commitment. I’ve yet to really experience that. As much as I want to be Vulnerable and honest I’m also aware that life imitates art and I want to be sure that I’m writing not only that which I’ve lived but that I want to love.

LV: You once said that you’re interested in creating “soul music for the future”. As someone born in Memphis and raised in Mississippi, how have those two places influenced you? Have you always been a fan of soul music? 
K: Oh wow I mean really believe I’m bred for and from the genre. There’s waves where soul music comes to the forefront and everyone jumps on the bandwagon but I breathe soul in season and out of season. I really believe it’s in my bloodline. 

LV: Your resume is very impressive, writing for artists such as Ariana Grande and Beyonce. What is the process like writing for other artists versus yourself? Is it hard to find your own voice and style while also having other artists sing songs you’ve worked on? 
K: I think you have to know what you aren’t to know what you are. Songwriting allowed me to be a chameleon and because of it I was able to find my true colors. You get to wear so many hats and just because one looks good on you doesn’t mean it’s the right fit. And when that happens you give the song away. I love being able to have fun with ideas that aren’t for me and share my gift.

LV: I have a quote from you which reads “I definitely try to instill hope for the black love experience but also be very realistic. Sometimes the cost of entry for love is a little pain”, I think this is a beautiful quote and I’m hoping you can expand on it a little more. Where do you draw the line between hope and realism? 
K: I think you draw the line at honesty. Practicing  radical acceptance and honesty keeps me hopeful but grounded in truth. I’m committed to being hopeful in love but also committed to not wanting it more than the other person. 

LV: Your music really reminds me of the sound of the early 2000’s. I was wondering who are your greatest influences?
K: Oh wow thank you.  Aretha Franklin. Erykah Badu. John Mayer. Otis Redding.  Jill Scott. Anderson Paak 

LV: What are your next moves? Anything you can tell us? 
K: Catch me in a city near you. We’re going on tour babyyyy

LV: Lastly, if you can give your audience one message, what would it be? 
K: You are ENOUGH!

Click to check out Kirby’s playlist