Nocturnal yet dreamy, Essex singer/songwriter IMONI’s captivating sound contrasts dark RnB/hip hop beats with sweet soulful vocals. After her first collaborative release with rapper Piers James ‘Unfinished Business’ was premiered by DJ Target on BBC Radio 1Xtra, Complex magazine and was added to Spotify’s ‘Chilled Pop Hits’ playlist, IMONI went on to release her debut single which received support from BBC Introducing and landed playlist spots such as Apple Music’s ‘New Music Daily’ and Spotify’s ‘Fresh Finds: Hip Hop’. We caught up with the singer and asked her top 5 tracks that have influenced her musically.
ABRA – Fruit
When I first heard this I thought it sounded like the type of music I wanted to make. I love how it’s dark and bassy, but her vocals are soft and chilled. I listened to her a lot of years ago when I first started recording my own stuff and her vibe definitely inspired me.
Jessie Reyez – Gatekeeper
I remember watching the video to this when it came out and just thinking she’s so fearless and admiring her for it. How she executed telling her story was so moving. I love the darkness to her lyrics and the raw passion she has when she sings.
Little Simz – Backseat
I love little Simz and this is probably my favourite song of hers. Her lyrics and flow are really powerful. I think she really shines on darker, stripped back, emotional tracks like this.
Ama Lou – Northside
Ama is one of my favourite artists. I always liked her earlier stuff but I think this beat took her to a new level. I love the way she writes, it’s really unique and always interesting. Her tone is unique too, she’s just really effortless and true to herself.
Audrey Nuna – Paper
I love this song at the moment. The melody is cool and eerie. Her voice sounds so pure but her lyrics are dark which is something I always like in songs and incorporate in my own music.
Listen to Imoni’s latest track below:
