Q&A: KRYPTIK
“It’s a relief to know I’m doing something right.”
Flying the flag for Scotland; Paisley-raised microphone mangler, Kryptik, kicks off 2024 with his latest single, “Roses N Daisies”. Well known for his mischievous demeanour, Kryptik steps out of his comfort zone in this track, instead using it as a canvas to paint a more reflective and vulnerable piece. Reeling back the sands of time to portray personal tales of turmoil, family dynamics and poverty; “Roses N Daisies” serves as a window into Kryptik’s formative years and perspective on life.The sweeping soundscape, produced by Louis Seivwright, (Warner, The Rap Game UK), provides the perfect backdrop for this heartfelt anthem, and is beautifully complimented by the vivid visuals, captured by Andrew MacKenzie (IRN BRZ). Raw and emotive, this hard-hitting track has already seen support from BBC Introducing in Scotland and playlisting from British Airways “Next Big Thing”.
Tell us about your new single 'Roses N Daisies'. You mention your formative years and perspective on life, what inspired you to write such a personal track?
For this one, the instrumental was actually named Roses N Daisies. I always try my best to follow the name but hadn’t given it much thought until I hit the studio. If memory serves I was trying to write to another beat, that one happened to come on and it all just poured out of me. I’d been going through a lot of stuff with my mum who’d been scammed out of her life savings. It had been weighing heavy on me for about 2 years but for legal reasons I wasn’t able to speak about it. We’d just reached a conclusion that day so everything was fresh and emotions were high so it was quite cathartic to finally put it into words.
How does it feel seeing 'Roses N Daisies' featured on BBC Introducing in Scotland and playlisting in British Airways “Next Big Thing”, before the official release?
It’s reassuring to know that it’s landing right, especially with how personal this one is. Having that industry support as an independent artist is very encouraging. I always worry how it’s going to be received, pre-release so yeah, it’s a relief to know I’m doing something right.
What was your favourite show of 2023?
I had a couple of belters but my favourite was probably a Gaza fundraiser in November. It was packed out, the crowd were amazing, had my first ever mosh pit and it was my first show since becoming a dad so it was good to blow the cobwebs off in style!
Tell us your three desert island albums.
Ocean Wisdom - Wizville
Non-Phixion - The Future is Now
The Prodigy - Their Law The Singles
If you could collaborate with anyone on future music, who would it be?
Dizzee Rascal - he’s cold with it since day dot and got a similar sense of humour. It would be a certified banger for sure!
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are looking to establish themselves in the Scottish music industry, and even locally in Paisley?
Carve your own lane and your own sound. Make the music you like and try not to be sidetracked with what other people are up to. Social media is great for networking but also bad for comparing and perhaps feeling inadequate that you’re not doing as well as the next person. It’s not a race, it’s an art form. Although it’s highly competitive, it’s not about them, your music is meant to be about you and your story, so try and stay true to that. It’ll resonate with the right people at the right time, just enjoy the journey.
Lastly, what can we expect to see from Kryptik in 2024?
My main focus is writing new material. I’m just wrapping up an album with Louis Seivwright. That’ll be 8 tracks and possibly a couple bonus ones. Will see how I feel once those 8 are locked in. I’m also dipping my toe back into producing drum n bass, so might be a couple side missions along the way. Obviously be doing some shows in the UK but nothing confirmed at the moment. Apart from that, just embracing dad/family life. Shouts to my baby daughter Penny and her absolute trooper of a mum, Paula.
For more KRYPTIK and to keep updated on upcoming shows and releases, click here.