2. hopent – Knxwledge.
Knxwledge: The Lo-Fi King
Knxwledge, born Kenny Beats, is a prolific American producer and DJ hailing from Los Angeles. Known for his signature lo-fi beats, jazzy samples, and heavy basslines, he’s carved a unique niche in the hip-hop and electronic music landscape.
A Genre-Bending Sound:
While primarily known for his contributions to the lo-fi hip-hop scene, Knxwledge’s music defies categorization. He seamlessly blends elements of jazz, soul, funk, electronic music, and even experimental sounds into his beats, creating a sonic tapestry that’s both familiar and innovative.
Signature Style:
Knxwledge’s sound is characterized by:
- Heavy, punchy basslines: Providing the foundation for his beats, his basslines are often distorted, groovy, and undeniably catchy.
- Jazzy and soulful samples: He expertly crafts his beats around meticulously chosen samples, often incorporating vintage jazz, soul, and funk records.
- Lo-fi aesthetic: His music is intentionally rough around the edges, embracing the imperfections and sonic nuances of analog equipment.
- Unique, experimental touches: He often incorporates elements of ambient, drone, and noise into his music, adding texture and depth to his compositions.
Notable Tracks:
- “The Worst” (ft. Quelle Chris): A classic example of Knxwledge’s heavy basslines and soulful samples, showcasing his signature sound.
- “Get You” (ft. Zacari): A more melodic and ethereal track, featuring a smooth vocal performance and a hypnotic beat.
- “M.O.B.” (ft. Domo Genesis): A high-energy banger with a driving beat and a raw vocal delivery.
- “Nothin’ But The Truth” (ft. Armand Hammer): A somber and introspective track, showcasing Knxwledge’s ability to create emotionally resonant music.
Collaborations and Friends:
Knxwledge is known for his extensive collaborations with a wide range of artists. He has worked with notable figures in the hip-hop scene, including:
- Quelle Chris: A frequent collaborator, known for his introspective and socially conscious lyrics.
- Armand Hammer: Another frequent collaborator, known for his experimental and politically charged music.
- Domo Genesis: A member of the Odd Future collective, known for his laid-back and introspective lyrics.
- Zacari: A singer-songwriter known for his smooth vocals and atmospheric sound.
Similar Artists:
If you enjoy Knxwledge’s sound, you might also enjoy:
- Madlib: A legendary producer known for his eclectic sampling and experimental approach.
- J Dilla: A pioneering producer known for his jazzy and soulful beats.
- Flying Lotus: An experimental producer known for his complex and intricate soundscapes.
- MF DOOM: A masked rapper and producer known for his intricate rhyme schemes and off-kilter beats.
Beyond the Beats:
Beyond his production work, Knxwledge is also a DJ and a dedicated vinyl collector. He is known for his energetic and eclectic sets, showcasing his deep knowledge of music and his knack for blending genres.
Knxwledge’s music is a testament to the power of creative sampling, genre-bending, and pushing boundaries. He continues to innovate and inspire, solidifying his place as one of the most influential and respected producers of his generation.