Nigerian-American R&B artist Lekan is making waves in the music industry with the release of his debut EP, So You Know, which features six tracks that explore the complexities and beauty of love. The album is characterized by Lekan's velvety voice and a straightforward approach to production, diverging from the sometimes toxic themes prevalent in contemporary R&B.
Lekan, who recently moved to Los Angeles from Columbus, Ohio, draws inspiration from various artists, including legends like Stevie Wonder and Anita Baker, as well as contemporary songwriters such as Billie Eilish and Ed Sheeran. He believes in crafting lyrics that promote positivity and help heal listeners, stating, "We just all have a responsibility, whether we know it or not, to push the sound and spread the rhetoric that's actually gonna help us and heal us."
The EP's opener, 614, pays homage to Columbus with its area code, marking a significant moment in his career, aligned with its release date. Lekan expresses gratitude for his partnership with Human Re Sources, which has supported his journey since discovering his unique sound. The collaboration with veteran music producer Rodney Darkchild Jerkins on the track Brand New exemplifies Lekan's commitment to original artistry while learning from established talents.
Beginning this month, Lekan will join Tems as the opening act on her Born in the Wild Tour, marking his first multi-city tour. This opportunity solidifies his dedication to growth in the music scene and resonates with his belief in perseverance and belief in his craft. He aims to cement his place among R&B greats, drawing comparisons to classic albums like The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and Voodoo by D'Angelo. As Lekan moves forward, he asserts that this is just the beginning of his journey: "Y'all just got to know me, but I plan on being here for a long time."
For further exploration of Lekan's work, you can listen to tracks from So You Know on platforms like YouTube: 614 and Better Care.
For more details on Lekan's inspiring journey, check out the full feature interview here.