The young, multifaceted, and spirited act shows off her versatility on this fresh release “Take Me”, maintaining an unwavering focus and vocal harmony synergy with featured act Thutmose.
A new Winny rollout season is upon us. RadrAfrica talks to one of the finest and uber-talented fast-rising acts. With a discography that speaks volumes and recognition that can’t be countered by years in the industry, Winny is back again. This time, she brings a fresh release, ushering in good tidings. They say good things come to those who wait. Aside from being a fresh new release, she hints at an EP drop later in the year. While November might sound uncertain, the certainty that it’s coming this year quenches the new Winny thirst.
Over the phone, we talk about everything from lessons gathered along this journey, inspiration for ‘Take Me” to her creative direction, and how the collaboration with Thutmose came about.
It’s the 8th month of the year 2024! How has the year been treating you so far, personally?
I am just going with how the year is moving. I won’t say I am floating, but I’m definitely following the pace of how the year is unfolding. Although I’m moving at my own pace, I’m catching on and handling my business just fine. The year has been great.
International Girlfriends Day: Let’s talk about female friendships and their significance to you.
Female friendships, for me, are about having each other’s backs and telling one another the truth. It’s warm and about doing life together. It feels like a safe space and a hug from people who genuinely love you, regardless of whatever situation you might find yourself in.
How has your music evolved since you started? What changes have you noticed in the industry?
Doing music and the business aspect of music are two different things. Creating music comes from a place of self-expression, while the business side requires attention and active involvement. I’ve aligned myself with the business aspect aside from creating. I’ve come to understand that there’s a lot that goes into this, and being about my music has deepened my reason to acquire more knowledge in that field, study patterns, and understand the inner workings of the business.
It’s been a jolly ride so far, as every day presents new information and knowledge to pick up. I’m learning, and I feel like a student.
What has significantly stood out to you so far?
I would say being myself. It’s the best investment any artist can make because no one can do what you do better than yourself.
Are there any artists or producers you’re excited to work with in the future? How do you pick your collaborators?
I’d like to work with London. I have a long list of producers I am looking forward to working with. Personally, the vibe has to be right. Aside from being an outstanding artist, I like it when the energy feels right. In my opinion, collaborations arising out of such cordial energy would be great on the songs. I need to connect energy and aura-wise for us to make the type of music I believe is good music.
Looking back, is there a particular moment or achievement in your career that stands out as especially significant?
My first project. It took a lot. I started recording it in 2019, through the COVID lockdown phases. I was sneaking out of my house once the curfew was relaxed and would go to the studio to record every Friday. From recording verses to songs, that’s how the project came out.
Your track ‘Ghetto Feels’ made a big impact. Are there any plans to follow up on that, or are you moving on?
I am moving on. I won’t say I’m under any pressure. I‘m in a space of just creating and putting it out. Currently, I am working on a project, and you can expect a lot of new sounds. Hopefully, it will be out by November.
What was the inspiration behind your new single ‘Take Me’?
It is one of those songs you write when you see something that reminds you of an event, and it’s like, “Oh, I should sing about this.” It is an expression of how I’m longing to spend time with my lover, reminiscing about moments we shared together and thinking about a future together.
Would you call yourself a lover girl and how does it feel to be a lover girl in 2024?
Yes.
It feels weird because people are scared to fall in love. It feels really weird because when you tell people you are a lover girl, they make it seem like you are weak, and that’s not how it ought to be. Quite frankly, I don’t care. I like to feel like a lover girl. I enjoy it, and if people don’t get it, I can’t explain it. They should take it like that or leave it.
Take Me’ features Thutmose. How did that collaboration come about?
We reached out to each other. He initially reached out to me to work on a song, and I also reached out to him to work on a song. It’s a vibe thing; we had the same energy and were willing to collaborate on a song, so why not?
Your artist direction is always on point—music videos, photos, album covers. Are you deeply involved in your creative process?
I do a lot of my styling for videos and my Instagram. I did the styling for ‘Ghetto Feels’. The music video directing was more of a partnership with Prince through Periscope. I really liked his energy; he also shot ‘Pretty’. I like working with him.
Any exciting projects or plans you can share with us? What’s coming up next for you?
It’s a secret, but I can share a bit. There will be a secret collaboration with someone influential. So just be on the lookout. The EP is coming in November.
What words of advice or encouragement would you give to yourself if you were just starting out on this career journey?
I would tell myself to work hard and pray. It’s fair to say that I am enjoying the journey. I am not where I used to be. I have a great team, and I’m grateful for growth most importantly. Every experience has been all summing up to this.
Listen to Take Me Here.
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