Music Essentials: Kilo Kish

New York songstress Lakishka Robinson — better known to the world as Kilo Kish — carries that “girl next door” attitude with aplomb swagger. As part of Brooklyn’s KoolKatsKlub collective, Kish and her team display creativity in a number of outlets, from fashion and music to visual art, creating the perfect soil for the 23-year old to further her endeavors. The rising artist first gained mass appeal from the release of The Internet-produced “Watergun.” Her Homeschool EP, pushed by its standout single “Navy,” showed a fledgling artist grasping a fitful style and cemented Kish as a force to be reckoned with. Showing dexterity in combining raw New York chic with dream-like vocals, Kish’s latest mixtape K+ firmly harbors the spokenword linguist with contemporary favorites. With recent collaborations with Earl Sweatshirt, Childish Gambino, A$AP Ferg and SBTRKT — Kish is spearheading hip-hop by appropriating her predecessors — Uffie, M.I.A — with “new school’s” finest dance and hip-hop acts. With such competency, it’s not surprising that Kish’s Music Essentials hold the necessary items allowing the songstress to create on-the-road. Kish’s inclination to Japanese stationary and accessories brands like Supreme, Liberty London and Marc Jacobs nods at her exquisite taste. Meanwhile, the USB microphone and notebooks allows her to flourish ideas at home before hitting the studio. Last but not least, the artists shares the tool that assists her acute wordplay — a Word Smart book Kish holds close.

Photo Credit: Verena Stefanie Grotto