Country: United Kingdom
Genre(s): Soul- Folk- Folk rock
Experience: 2011-present

Michael Kiwanuka has released a new album entitled Love & Hate. The music reminds me of Bob Marley’s music in the 70’s.  

The first song Cold Little Heart is mostly music and you don’t hear Kiwanuka singing much in it. It’s a long introduction to the album. The music has a smooth rhythm, however.  His songs tell stories of social issues such as racism. The song Black Man in a White World  is an important example of this taking place. It’s a song that gets you thinking about your place in the world. In this case it’s dominated by “white people”, from my interpretation of the song.  He refers a lot to the subject of heartbreak such as the song I’ll Never Love Somebody. This song is relatable and nicely written. The music overall has a slow rhythm. I would have a preferred songs that had a faster beat. As I mentioned before, his music reminds me of Bob Marley’s songs such as No Woman No Cry, and Get up, Stand Up.

The lyrics of Kiwanuka’s songs are deep and rich with meaning. They’re also thought- provoking, which gives us his perspective on the world of today.  The  Black Man in a White World reminds of Get up, Stand Up  in terms of the socio-political message it conveys. Father’s Child is song that touched me deeply. It sounds like his relationship with his father faced obstacles. My apologies if the meaning isn’t clear to me.

The song Love & Hate has an optimistic message of hope and courage. The determination is very present in this song. The song ends with a musical bit that’s interesting. Place I Belong is also an optimistic song. Rule The World deals with emotional issues within oneself, but also show the willingness to seek help from others.

Kiwanuka’s voice is smooth and beautiful. I see potential for this artist. It’s not my style, but I can see people enjoying and appreciating his music.

My fave songs are: Love & Hate, Place I Belong, and Black Man in White World.