Berlin’s newest avant-pop prodigy, Keny Chan, suffers an emotional outburst on his new single, “Be OK (B.O.K).” The track comes on the wings of his upcoming debut album, the date still unknown. However, the artist’s tenacious hold on his music, from composition to the mixing and mastering stages, is a true testament to his creative vision.
Today’s Music Discovery highlight goes to Keny Chan because he proves that being independent doesn’t mean DIY craftsmanship– he means business.
“Be OK (B.O.K)”
Like Charli XCX’s “Gone” (2019), this single focuses on an introvert who is overstimulated by the world of extroverts. Battling against the inferiority complex of not being more social.
Inspired by early-stage hyperpop, Keny’s production is proudly synth-heavy and sparkles. The tranquil and dark-water-like synth intro is interrupted by striking synths and lyrics of isolation.
“No pressure on me, I know where to be. Always feel lonely, I don’t deny it. I see them talking, Walking around me. I’m in a bubble, Full transparency.”
Fueled by punchy kick drums and a vocoder, a subtle dance break roars into a final hysterical outburst. The last chorus’s highly edited vocals emulate an electric guitar– a track highlight. As the smoke clears, airy vocals shout through the noise, “I will fade away.” It isn’t the correct answer but a form of escape derived from self-loathing.
The title becomes a repetitive, robotic rumination that haunts the person in the chorus: “How can I be OK?”
More About Keny Chan
Keny Chan is a queer singer, songwriter, producer, and visual artist based in Berlin. Heavily inspired by experimental electronic music and avant-pop music, his songs contain fresh sound designs and unique structures while still being catchy. Influenced by avant-pop icons such as SOPHIE, Keny believes in the endless possibilities of combining software and synthesizer-generated sounds, resulting in a synth heavy production.
Alongside with honest lyrics depicting his experiences as a queer immigrant, Keny’s music sparkles with creativity and sincerity. After releasing 4 self-produced singles, Keny Chan is now finally working on his debut full-length project.
What do you think of today’s Music Discovery, Keny Chan, and his new single, “Be OK (B.O.K)”? Let us know in the comments!
