Musical artist Keznamdi talks about his album “Blood and Fyah,” and being a part of the digital age.
How did you approach the song selection process for “Blood and Fyah”?
When I step into the studio to create a body of work, I might have a vision of what I hope to achieve, but the process itself is more about discovery.
Making music is an action—something I do in hopes of finding something that resonates deeply with people.
With this album, it wasn’t just about crafting clever rhymes or interesting flows; it was about the message. What am I really saying? How do I want people to feel? Those questions were the driving force behind the entire process.
What is your personal favorite song on there?
“Colonial Bondage” is one of the deeper cuts on the album. We did a lot of live jamming throughout the process—I had the songs written, but we took the time to vibe with the musicians and let the music breathe.
During this particular session, there was just this unspoken finesse—everyone instinctively knew the task. I’m really proud of how that one turned out!
What inspires your music and songwriting?
For me, creating music isn’t just about going into the studio and making a song—it’s how I live my life. Every decision I make is rooted in nurturing my creativity.
Every interaction, every experience is about creating a space where inspiration flows naturally. I am a walking song!
What do your plans for the future include?
We’ve curated some really special experiences around the world with this album, including the LA and NYC dates we just announced.
Right now, I’m feeling super inspired—I’m ready to dive back in and create something new.
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology, and social media being so prevalent)
I was born into the digital age, so I don’t know what life feels like without it. But at the end of the day, I’m human, and I know there’s a real world beyond this online facade.
The key is figuring out how to use the algorithm instead of letting it use you—that’s when you really win.
What is your advice for young and emerging artists?
Don’t skip the steps. Master every level.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
Happiness is a mix of things—it’s never a simple, straight path. Life has its peaks and valleys, and the real key is learning how to maintain your inner peace through it all.
When you can do that while spending your time doing what you love, that’s the real sweet spot.
What would you like to tell our readers about your new album “Blood and Fyah”? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
As Nina Simone once said, “An artist’s duty… is to reflect the times.” That truth stayed with me through every beat, every lyric, every note on this album.
I wasn’t just making music—I was telling stories. Stories of struggle, resilience, and resistance.
Stories of the third world, of the unheard, of those fighting against the weight of oppression. Some of these stories I’ve lived; others I’ve witnessed. But all of them are real.
“Blood and Fyah” is exactly what it sounds like. Blood—the sacrifice, the pain, the work, and the dedication that brought me here. Fyah—the transformation, the burning away of the old to make way for growth. And the fire that must continue to rage against injustice.
This is more than an album. It’s a call. A message. A movement.
To learn more about Keznamdi, follow him on Instagram.
