Nicole Leonards or rather known by her fans, Ethnique , is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, designer and artist. Her musical sound can be described as a breath of fresh air in this clone-flooded industry. When listening to her music one can’t help but hear the distinct reverberations of her voice within each note. The ambiance of her musical aura resembles that of vocalists such as SZA, Jhene’ Aiko and Lauryn Hill. Her latest single, “The Way I do” is currently doing its rounds on local radio stations.
She sees her art as a way of life instead of something that she has to do. Her unorthodox style and outlook on life has made her a force to be reckoned with. It is for this reason that she is constantly surrounded by creatives who revere her presence. They also keep her creative juices in motion. In her spare time she designs and creates unconventional art pieces. She has also designs single artworks for various local artists. Besides being an all-round creative, Ezaeth is also a pro dancer and has been dancing since she was in primary school.
Ezaeth has done various projects for different brands and has performed in various shows in and around Cape Town. She opened up a show for Jimmy Nevis at the University of Western Cape. She recently performed at the Open Design Festival.
Erthnique Ezaeth is set to perform at the #MotherCityLive2015 | #MCL2015, which will take place Friday, November 27 at 11:30am at The Great Wizoo in Cape Town.
We had a chance to sit down with Ethnique to find out more about her latest work, this is how it went:
1. First of all, for those who don’t know, who is Ethnique?
Ethnique is a singer, songwriter, artist, dancer and all round creative. I enjoy trying anything and everything involving arts & culture.
2. Your single, “The way I do”, is doing wonders on local airwaves, any plans to go national with the song?
Definitely, we’re pushing for even bigger radio stations. I’m excited to say that it’s even being played out in Atlanta on of their Independent radio stations, Galactic Rule Radio. I’m confident in our marketing process so I definitely see the song going National.
3. You also have a music video out for the song; it’s quite radical and deep. What inspired it?
Just a personal experience. I wanted it to be real. Besides the flashy house ofcourse. I wanted people to be able to relate.. It’s a love thing.
The way I do Music Video :Ethnique – The Way I Do (Official Music Video)
4. You style is unique and different to the norms of society. Who or what inspires you and your sound?
I’ve never been one to follow.. so I’ve always had my own take on what things could look, sound, feel like. I look for inspiration in anything & everything.
5. What are your aims with your music?
I want to share my experiences as well as how I view the world to be. How it should be. You know? I want to influence people.. The good kind of influence.
6. When are you finally releasing a major album?
We’ve been working on completing the album.. I’d call it more of a Mistake. It’s merely just a collection of sounds. I’ve got some features.. Dope enough to hopefully make even Jo’burg cats look at Cape Town like, “This is where the heat’s at!” ha-ha… Before the end of the year I suppose. I’m still trying to lay down the final blueprint until I’m happy with how it sounds from track A-Z. I might surprise you though. #watchthisspace
7. At such a young age you already have an outstanding repertoire. Who would you still like to work with in terms of music and fashion?
To be honest with you. I’d like to Design clothes & prints for Kanye -lol- There’s so much happening in my mind. I see things and I want to better it or recreate completely.. Locally I’d love to work with Gangs of Ballet, Kongos and PHfat & Nonku Phiri. Musical geniuses if you ask me. Fashion wise.. Marianne Fassler & Vivienne Westwood to create the most eccentric African inspired garment ever topped off with Alexander Wang. Big dreams but watch me make them come to fruition.
8. You do music, you’re a creative, a model, a designer and you design single artworks for artists. How do you juggle everything together?
Literally day by day. Shoot today, design tomorrow. Rehearsals in the next few hours -haha- It sounds exciting but It’s exhausting. Especially if you’re tryna put yourself on the scene. My hustle knows no sleep.
9. You are with Take Your Time productions. How did that deal come along?
Well, I was in high school when I met a group of friends who knew this guy who knew music. We set up a meeting. I made the decision to start taking music seriously and not just see it as a hobby. The rest is history smile emoticon It’s been a great journey. I’ve been taking so many notes. Preparing myself for what’s to come
10. What is your opinion on the current state of music in Cape Town?
I don’t think we support each other enough. I don’t think there’s enough passion in labels. I don’t think we have companies reaching out to artists or even taking music in Cape Town seriously. We have so much unseen authentic talent everywhere.. But not enough production companies, guiding motivation artists. Even if they’re not signing. They’re still learning the ropes. I feel like we should be promoting each other. I mean it’s what I do. People tend to think that JHB is where you need to go, I’m trying to change that. Make people want to come to Cape Town. I’m sticking with that.
11. To those kids looking up to you, what advice do you have for them?
Don’t let the media’s versions of life dictate how you run yours. You’re only a human. You know your capabilities. Just do what makes you happy. Life’s too short to be sad kid.
12. If you could change anything in the way your generation views the world, what would it be?
Don’t watch television. Read Fiction! Look for positivity in everything. This life is unapologetic. It will eat you alive if you don’t take control of it. I mean, would you rather lose yourself to a world of fake realities or lose yourself in doing a million things that make you smile?
13. Thank you so much for sitting down with us, all the best for the future.
Thank you for having me
As you can see, Ethnique is a strongly opinionated girl with a mission. Judging by her determination and drive one can tell that she’s out to change the world.
Follow @Ethnique_Ezeath
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