London artist Konyikeh has shared her new single ‘Sit Down’.
Conceived in the pandemic, the single is Konyikeh’s first collaboration with Brixton-based producer Srigala. Imbued with downbeat jazz and symphonic flourishes, ‘Sit Down’ moves between confession and observation as Konyikeh paints a vivid, piquant picture of romantic disillusion between partners and generations.
Konyikeh shares: “Inspired by romantic comedies, the song is written from three perspectives: a girlfriend feeling out of place, a mother comparing her to the ex, and a boyfriend caught in between. Producer Srigala and I incorporated guitar and violin, adding a unique touch to this tongue-in-cheek song about a relatable situation.”
Fresh off touring with Sam Smith and Tems, Konyikeh continues to flesh out her artistry and build on the success of her 2023 debut EP, ‘Litany’. Konyikeh’s cavernous voice gained widespread attention at the 2022 BRITs, when she performed alongside Dave during his rendition of ‘In The Fire’.
Raised in Essex, Konyikeh’s music is informed by her Cameroonian and Jamaican heritage, classical training and her abiding love of musical theatre. As a music scholar and Guildhall School of Music alumna, Konyikeh was encouraged to channel intense emotions into her performances – an approach that continues to shape her work today.
Despite struggling with her identity in predominantly white spaces growing up, this next chapter of her career sees Konyikeh reconnect with and celebrate her heritage and ancestry.
Watch the video for ‘Sit Down’ below, directed by Aisyah Octavia.
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