
Kweku Bandit: Afrobeats Bad Boy (Exclusive Interview)
Every now and then, you come across an artist with superstar written all over them.
The London-born, Ghana-raised Afrobeats artist is on a mission to carve his lane in music. His unique melodic sound fuses with Afrobeat instrumentals seamlessly and lets you know he has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of the greats, such as Wizkid and JHus. Kweku-Bandit is smooth with the vocals, but his authentic bad-boy side cannot hide, adding mystery to his character. He almost reminds me of Blade Brown, K-Trap and Burna Boy fused into one. You have to admit, that is a recipe for success. We interview the new Afrobeats Bad boy to find out more about his inspirations, his music, and what he plans to do next.
Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’ll try to give my life story in a sentence or two. I was born in London, moved back or shipped back to Ghana when I was six, came back to the UK at 16, got into much trouble, and was in and out of prison. I sorted myself out, started making music and found out very quickly it was my passion, and now it’s all I want to do.
How would you describe your music?
I would say it reflects what’s going on in my head. At this point in my life, that’s typically motivation, good vibes, and other stuff. I would say most of my music is a sound to make you feel good! Growing up in Ghana significantly impacted my style, which is why you get the Afrobeats flavour in my music.
Was there a defining moment when you knew you wanted to make music?
When I came out of prison the 2nd time, my younger brother showed me some stuff he had recorded, and it blew me away. I started doing it from there and got lost in it. If you can do something all day and all night and not get bored, it’s definitely what you should be doing.
Can you tell us about your latest music projects?
My most recent EP, Bandit Season, was released last year. Since then, I’ve been making loads of music. I’ll put together another EP with the best out of the bunch. I aim to release it before the end of the year. I’ve got two singles released this year and all platforms – Can’t change me and trumpet. There will also be a few more single releases before the EP, so stay tuned.
How would you describe the afrobeat music scene in the UK?
I don’t think it has been as popping as it was a few years ago when it broke into the mainstream, but I feel it’s evolving! Afrobeats, especially coming from African artists, have taken the world by storm recently, which is fantastic to see and great for the scene. This also means UK-based artists need to show up with the same. A revival in the UK is needed, and I hope to be a big part of that.
What artist/producer would you like to work with?
Juls as a producer, I feel he is one of the best in the Afro beats genre. Anytime I hear something he has produced, it’s a spiritual experience, and I think about how I would flow on it. To work with him would be a blessing for sure.
How do you balance busy work life with personal time?
To be honest, my time management skills aren’t great. I’ve got a good team behind me that ensures I’m doing what I need, like this interview right now! Life’s all about balance. I enjoy my own company, and that’s when I make good music. So not a big issue between work and personal life.
What three habits have contributed to your success?
I haven’t reached the level of success I would deem to be a success yet, but meditation/praying, Physical training and being grateful put me in a zone where great things start to happen!
What advice would you give an aspiring artist?
The best time to start is always now. Set a list of small goals you need to achieve and start working on them. Have an end in sight of what you want to achieve. Just keep making music and put it out there! Don’t let the number of likes or streams you get initially dishearten you. Work mad on marketing, be patient, and if you love what you’re doing, why would you want to do something else? God will always bless a trier.
Where do you want to be in two years?
I hope to be doing what I love and have an international fan base that can relate to and be moved by my music like I am by some of my favourite artists. Be in a position where I can be in the studio as much as I want.
What would you say to your fans?
I’m so grateful for all the support, and anyone who can appreciate my music should know that they are pushing me in ways they wouldn’t understand—mad love for anyone who is a fan.
Can you share your creative process?
Early mornings alone is my most creative time. When I’m walking or cycling, melodies and flows start coming. I record the flow and then try and fit words in after.
How do you feel the Internet has impacted independent artists?
With the Internet, you can take your career into your own hands. You can upload your content and build your fanbase.
You can also network with producers, graphic designers and other artists. It’s a powerful tool. We take advantage of it, which has undoubtedly helped us build bridges.
Where do you hope to be in 2 years?
Gaining more recognition, be associated with the top acts in the country and start making regular bookings.
Where can we find you online?
You can find me on Instagram at @KWEKU_BANDIT.