A Brief Biography of Kasestyle
Born Kelvin Ibinabo Oriye on April 12, 1996, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Kaestyle is a multitalented singer, songwriter, and music producer. A graduate of music from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt, he released his first single, “Streets,” produced by Tunezfaktory, in 2016 while still in school. In 2021, he signed with KeyQaad and released his first single under the label, “Stamina,” marking the start of his career with them.
This interview with Kaestyle has been slightly edited for clarity.
An Interview Session With Kasestyle
What is your music background and what inspired you to become an artist?
I had the regular RnB boy story. I started in the senior choir when I was 8 and looked up to a few PH artists. Being part of the choir enhanced my vocal skills and appreciation for music. Growing up in Port Harcourt, I drew inspiration from other big artists who blended various styles of music. Their success and unique sounds also fueled my passion for music, shaping my path as an artist.
In your music journey, what has been the biggest challenges and setbacks you have faced?
The set back started early, it was really hard to be heard as a PH artist, you have to work twice as hard. The biggest challenges were accessing opportunities and breaking through the local scene to reach a wider audience. Despite these hurdles, it has made me more determined and resilient in my music journey.
Briefly talk about your music style and how you found your sound
My music style is still being discovered. I’m exploring different sounds and influences to find my unique voice & style of music.
Following the release of hit singles, should we expect a project this year?
There’s a project out already, go listen and enjoy good music.
How did you meet Omah Lay & how did you get to form a great chemistry with him?
I met him when you all met him, we have always had chemistry and he is my guy. We’ve always clicked on a musical level, and that connection translates into our music. He’s my guy, and working together has been an incredible experience, allowing us to create a great track and more to come.
How does it feel being one of the top voices of Port Harcourt today?
It feels great, there is not many of us doing this and doing it this good. It’s an honor and a privilege to represent my city on a larger stage and it’s gratifying to know that I’m among those who are doing it well. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and to continue delivering great music that makes my city proud.
Who is your dream artiste to collaborate with?
My dream artist to collaborate with is Drake. His versatility and influence in the music industry are unmatched, and working with him would be an incredible experience.
Do you have a mentor in the music industry?
I consider everyone in the music industry my mentor, learning from both their successes and failures.
Who would you say is the next best thing we should watch out for in the Port Harcourt?
David Hart, he produced “MY DEALER” record
What would you say your brand stands for?
My brand stands for the essence of the streets and embraces realness and authenticity. It’s about staying true to my roots and reflecting real-life experiences through my music.
Looking at the grand list of great musicians out of Port Harcourt, do you feel any pressure in surpassing their legacies?
No, I’m on my own path. While I respect the legacies of great musicians from Port Harcourt, I focus on forging my own unique journey in the music industry. Each artist leaves their mark in their own way, and I strive to make my mark authentically, without comparing myself to others.
Do you have a distinct name for your genre of music?
Quality music.
Tell us a bit about your music versatility which has been evident in your last releases
It is a combination of every genre of music I have assimilated growing up. PH is hip hop oriented; I can sing and make beautiful melodies so I fuse Afrobeats and background in dancehall from the church.
Who is your favorite producer to work with?
My favorite producer to work with is myself. Producing my own music gives me complete creative freedom and fully realizes my vision.
The project with LeriQ, how did that happen?
We met at a recording boot camp and being a fan of his, I saw every beat he gave me as a challenge and I made sure I delivered on those beats and as it turned out we had too many records together we couldn’t let go so we dev to release it as an EP.