Written by Justus Hawkins
The best way to describe L6NKY’s music is a summer evening fling from nostalgia’s past, speckled with the bitter twist of past unrequited lovers; in short, it’s a vibe.
With standouts from previous hits like “Confetti” to a recent PB fave, “basically” from his recent EP, but i love you…, learn what inspires the enigmatic crooner.
How did your journey as an artist begin?
My artist journey began three years ago. I had always known I wanted to make music but never had the resources to do so. At the time, I was working for a company that provided me with free access to music software, which inevitably kickstarted my journey.
From there, I began recording and soon after released my first project.
As a queer artist, how has your identity shaped your music and the stories you tell?
I don’t allow myself to be confined to a box when it comes to my identity in music. I try to refrain from using too many pronouns because I want my music to feel like it can speak to whomever.
Representation in the industry is growing, but there’s still work to do. Have you faced any challenges as an openly queer artist?
I haven’t faced any challenges so far. My work is still pretty underground, but I expect that if it ever becomes mainstream, challenges will present themselves. I’m secure enough in myself to handle them as they come.
On the flip side, have you had any moments where you really felt the love and support of the LGBTQ+ community?
Typically, the people who listen to my music are from the community, so I always appreciate the love and support.
Your EP, but i love you… is making waves. What inspired it?
It was inspired by the ups and downs of romantic relationships—the complexity of knowing something isn’t good for you but wanting it anyway.
Who are some artists—queer or otherwise—that inspire you?
Some artists that inspire me are SZA, Frank Ocean, MK.gee, and Joji, just to name a few.
Outside of music, what are some passions or causes that are important to you?
I am a creative all around, so outside of music, I am passionate about art. I love to draw, sew, and create tapestries.
If you could collaborate with any artist right now, who would it be and why?
If I could collaborate with anyone at the moment, it would be SZA because I love how she writes music. She encapsulates emotion effortlessly.
What’s something you want your fans—especially queer listeners—to take away from your music?
It sounds cliché, but I want them to be themselves. So many people try to become digestible, so they dim themselves down, and that’s so boring.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects coming up?
I’m currently working on my second album.
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