40 Facts About Michael Kiwanuka

Early Life and Background

Michael Kiwanuka's journey from Muswell Hill to international acclaim is filled with fascinating details. Let's dive into the early years that shaped this remarkable artist.

1. Michael Kiwanuka was born on May 3, 1987, in Muswell Hill, London.
2. His parents, Michael and Deborah, fled Uganda to escape the Amin regime.
3. Kiwanuka attended Fortismere School, where he completed his A-Levels in 2005.
4. He pursued further education at the School of Media, Arts and Design at the University of Westminster.

Musical Influences and Early Career

Kiwanuka's music is a rich tapestry of influences and experiences. His early career laid the foundation for his unique sound.

5. His musical influences include Nirvana, Pearl Jam, The Verve, and Blur.
6. He also draws inspiration from singer-songwriters like Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell.
7. Soul legends like Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding have significantly influenced his style.
8. Before going solo, Kiwanuka worked as a session guitarist for artists like Labrinth, Chipmunk, and Bashy.
9. His first proper gig was at The Oxford in Kentish Town when he was 22 years old.

Breakthrough and Early Success

Kiwanuka's talent quickly caught the attention of the music industry, leading to significant opportunities and recognition.

10. He signed with Communion Records, which released his first two EPs.
11. His debut EP, Tell Me A Tale, was released on June 13, 2011.
12. In 2011, he supported Adele on her Adele Live 2011 tour.
13. He also performed at Adele's iTunes Festival 2011 gig.
14. In January 2012, Kiwanuka won the BBC’s Sound of 2012 poll.

Debut Album – Home Again

Kiwanuka's debut album marked his arrival as a significant new voice in music, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.

15. His debut studio album, Home Again, was released in 2012.
16. The album peaked at number 4 in the UK charts.
17. Home Again sold over 70,000 copies in the UK as of 2012.
18. Critics compared his musical style to Bill Withers and Terry Callier.
19. The album received praise for its blend of gospel, blues, and melancholic lyrics.

Touring and Songwriting

Touring with major artists and his unique approach to songwriting have been crucial to Kiwanuka's development as an artist.

20. His first major tour was with Adele in 2011.
21. Watching Adele perform inspired him to continue making music.
22. Kiwanuka writes songs primarily to make himself feel better.
23. The positive response from others to his music became addictive.
24. He believes songwriting should mimic the thought process of a child being read to.

Second Album – Love & Hate

Kiwanuka's second album faced challenges but ultimately became a critical success, showcasing his growth as an artist.

25. After Home Again, he started working on his second album, Love & Hate.
26. He scrapped the entire second album due to creative differences and personal struggles.
27. Love & Hate was eventually released in 2016.
28. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success.
29. It showcased a more mature and complex sound compared to his debut.

Third Album – Kiwanuka

Kiwanuka's third album solidified his status as a leading artist, earning him prestigious awards and widespread recognition.

30. In 2019, he released his third album, Kiwanuka.
31. The album placed at number 2 in the UK charts.
32. Kiwanuka has been gold certified for over 100,000 sales.
33. He won the UK Mercury Music Prize for 2020 with this album.
34. The album's name reflects his increasing confidence in being himself.

Collaborations and Personal Life

Kiwanuka's collaborations and personal experiences have enriched his music and provided depth to his artistic journey.

35. He has collaborated with artists like UNKLE and Tom Misch.
36. His single 'You Ain't the Problem' preceded the release of Kiwanuka.
37. Kiwanuka has openly discussed his struggles with anxiety and mental health issues.
38. He is a Christian and married his wife Charlotte, a Christian musician, in 2016.
39. He is a lifelong fan of Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
40. Currently, he is working on his fourth album, Small Changes, set to be released in 2024.

Michael Kiwanuka: A Musical Journey

Michael Kiwanuka's story is one of dedication, creativity, and perseverance. From his early days in Muswell Hill to winning the Mercury Prize, his journey has been nothing short of inspiring. His music, influenced by legends like Marvin Gaye and Bob Dylan, resonates with fans worldwide. Albums like Home Again, Love & Hate, and Kiwanuka showcase his evolving style and deep emotional connection to his craft. Despite personal struggles with anxiety, Kiwanuka has used his music as a therapeutic outlet, creating songs that touch the soul. Collaborations with artists like UNKLE and Tom Misch highlight his versatility. As he prepares for his fourth album, Small Changes, fans eagerly await what’s next. Michael Kiwanuka remains a humble, genuine artist who continues to push musical boundaries while staying true to his roots. His journey is far from over, and the future looks bright.