It’s release day for 19-year-old Minneapolis artist Bobby Kabeya, aka Miloe, as he launches his new EP ‘Greenhouse’ out into the world. Bringing a little summer sun to what’s been a pretty grey and rainy October, it’s a proper lovely show from an act with a knack for brightening up even the most miserable of times. Give it a listen below, and get to know him a little better, too.
What first sparked your interest in music?
My interest in music was first sparked through seeing my parents sing in our church choir. Congolese church music is very lively, so I was initially drawn to playing drums, but piano was my first instrument at around six years old.
Does songwriting come easily to you, or are you agonizing over every beat and lyric?
The instrumentals have always been the easier part for me. I love jamming with friends, and I can easily lose hours working on a beat. However, it takes a lot of effort to write lyrics that really mean something to me, but the struggle is worth it in the end.
What inspires you, both in music and in life?
I’m inspired by artists who are able to connect with their supporters on an emotional level, In all mediums of art. The world can feel very isolating right now, I feel that it’s nice to be reminded of our shared experiences and that we’re not alone in the way we feel as we move through life.
How is Minneapolis for getting into music, are there many opportunities there?
Minneapolis is one of the best cities for young artists. The theory is that being inside for a big chunk of the year leaves many with no other option but to pick up instruments. There is such a rich musical history here, and you can see it just walking around the city. There aren’t many venues for young people, but we’ve been able to build a vibrant scene on our own through basement shows and taking advantage of social media.
Are you creative in non-musical ways too?
I was big into photography when I was younger and into high school. I’m also a pretty creative midfielder in football, I stay making plays.
What do you do for fun?
I really like skating and biking. I spent a lot of my summer doing that and ham-mocking at the park.
How have you found 2020 so far? Have you had to change up many of your plans?
In 2020 I’ve felt myself do a lot of growing as a person, as I’m sure all of us have. We had a spring and fall tour opening for Beach Bunny, and I was really excited for that. They’re such a good band and really kind people with a really supportive and energetic audience. That’s been rescheduled for next fall.
What can you tell us about your new ‘Greenhouse’ EP? How did it come together?
The ‘Greenhouse’ EP is a kind of an ode to summer weather and nature. It came together when I brought my demos to a great producer from Minneapolis called Caleb Hinz. He, Jake Luppen and Nathan Stocker from the band Hippo Campus produced most of the project and they brought so much colour and life to the original demos. It was really cool to work with artists that I looked up to for a long time.
Do you prefer performing for an audience, or spending time in the studio?
I usually enjoy playing shows more than being in the studio. I feel like there’s less pressure to make everything perfect, and it’s more just building a fun energy with the crowd. Shows can feel really magical because everyone is so present for this one thing.
What are your hopes for 2021?
I hope to release some more bops for yall and eventually get back to playing shows when it’s safe enough.
Miloe’s ‘Greenhouse’ EP is out now.
