Artist Interviews

Q&A: Sean Kingston

By | Published on Friday 21 August 2009

Sean Kingston

Still only 19 years old, Sean Kingston returns with his second album, ‘Tomorrow’, next month via Sony/RCA. Born in Miami, Kingston moved to Jamaica with his family aged six and was raised on a musical diet of acts like Buju Banton, Ice Cube and Rakim. Charged with breaking and entering at 11 years old, and then living in a car while his mother was jailed for identity fraud, he began writing lyrics based on his life. Moving back to Miami, he entered various talent competitions before his demo reached producer JR Rotem, who took him under his wing and led him into a major label bidding war. Further developing his fusion of reggae, hip hop and pop, the new album features collaborations with Wyclef Jean, Lil Wayne and Good Charlotte. The latest single to be released from it, ‘Fire Burning’, is out this week. We spoke to Sean to ask our Same Six Questions.

Q1 How did you start out making music?
When I was little I used to sing in the house and perform for everyone that came to visit. When I was 11, my mom bought me equipment so that I could record. I entered talent shows all around the city and sent my demos to producers throughout the music industry.

Q2 What inspired your latest album?
Life. This album shows my growth both as a person and an artist. I want people to see the life experiences I’ve had through my music.

Q3 What process do you go through in creating a track?

Sometimes I get tracks first and then write to it, other times I collaborate with the producer about song ideas and we create the song together.

Q4 Which artists influence your work?
Bob Marley has definitely been a huge musical influence for me. I love Kanye West, Wyclef, Jay Z. I also love artists like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus. I am inspired by true artistry.

Q5 What would you say to someone experiencing your music for the first time?

Listen to the words carefully, every song tells a story. Most of all dance and enjoy.

Q6 What are your ambitions for your latest album, and for the future?
For the fans to appreciate my growth and love my new album. To continue to have successful singles and tour the world in support of ‘Tomorrow’.

MORE>> www.seankingston.com



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