Icy Lando (real name, Victor Buyuka) is a 26 year old rapper, singer and producer from just outside Nairobi, Kenya. Growing up in one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in his country, meant Icy grew up appreciating what most of us would take for granted. This lead, to a passionate love of music, inspired by his sister, who performed in an R’n’B group. Victor later joined his high school choir, becoming an active member of the annual Kenyan Music Festivals, a competition for high school choirs. Icy soon became the lead vocalist in the Kenyan Boys Choir, fronting his local group towards victory in the competition.
It was then, that the groups profile began to take off in a big way. The group became the countries most successful ever musical group, and gained international attention on being invited to perform at the inauguration of US President Barack Obama, in 2009. Soon after, the group was offered a recording deal with Universal Music Group in the UK, and released “Spirit of Africa” with the label giants, reaching No.21 in the UK Album Charts. During his time with the choir, Icy performed and recorded with the likes of Nelly Furtado, Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez.
“Was the best time in my teen years, where i got to meet and work with world renowned artists as well as a major label like UMG. Our success with the choir showed me that you can achieve your dreams and where you come from really does not matter.”
Now Icy is taking his experience in the industry to a new challenge, launching his solo project in 2019. Not one to shy away from a challenge, the new material marks a shift from his choir days inspired by working with UK producer N-Geezy . The single was mixed and mastered by Billboard Hot 100 producer Mike Gonsolin and recorded in Los Angeles.“Way Up” featured Australian pop singer Sire on the chorus, and it’s a hook-driven piece of R’n’B with an undeniable, old school
flavour. Icy’s rapping style takes influence from his time travelling the globe, leaning on UK Grime, Old School Hip Hop and of course, his Kenyan Heritage. It’s a track with undeniable flow and a hook that will stand the test of time.
“Way Up is a sexy,feel good type of song. I grew up and still listen to Chris Brown and recently Tory Lanez and my music portrays their kind of vibe. I always want to be different in what I do and if you listen to the music that is done in Africa or in Kenya, few of them do what I do. I recorded it in Los Angeles with Billboard Hot 100 producer Mike Gonsolin engineering the track
www.icylando.com
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- chitaliving: CHITA LIVING’s New Sofa Collection Brings Comfort and Style to Every Home
- Ella-Rosa’s-New-Single-FUN: Artwork by Hannah DeVries
- Amelie Lens: Photo Credit: Sam Neill
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