Following the release of his passion-filled new track 'River', we caught up with Kris Kollins to find out more about the music he loves and why. If you're a fan of the tracks below, be sure to check out 'River' below!
N.E.R.D & Rihanna - 'Lemon'
The collab I never thought I wanted or needed until it happened. Been a big fan of N.E.R.D. since I was a kid so I was excited when the band started making music again. Pharell is an inspiration of mine and Rihanna is an icon in every sense of the word. I admire both artists' versatility, and their daringness to push the envelope. This song is a culmination of all those things from both, and it turned into something unique and unexpected.
2. Frank Ocean - 'Pink + White'
Frank Ocean is a genius when it comes to pen game. From his melodies to his lyrics which come across like modern day poetry...he is one of few artists that transports you. I'm a pianist so the piano riff immediately captivated me. Paired with the drums, and Beyonce's background vocals sonically this song is a journey. I think its important to highlight queer artists of color especially in R&B and hip hop. Minority communities need more of that representation.
3. Julia Michaels - 'Lie Like This'
This is a song that I must admit stays on a steady repeat, and is on a few different playlists of mine. I admire Julia's songwriting so much and she is one of the few people I would die to work with. She knows how to write beautiful stories in a catchy pop song, and her vocals are so unique. I'm a huge fan of house music...and this track just feels so fucking good. She's gold to me.
4. Janet Jackson - 'That's The Way Love Goes'
Janet is a legend. This album....the "Janet." album may be my favorite of hers because it came at a time where Janet started exploring her sexuality and becoming more sexually liberated. It doesn't matter when this song comes on I always have to play it all the way through. Music that evokes a feeling always gets my attention, and this song makes me want to smoke, fuck, fall in love, and dance at the same time. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis ate the production up on this, and the video was icing on the cake. I love a sex symbol and freedom of expression.
5. Prince - 'I Wanna Be Your Lover'
I can't talk about legends and sex symbols without adding this enigma to the list. He is more than an artist....he is a movement. A man who knew no boundaries, no boxes, and no labels. Liberation personified. This song is another one of those I have to play all the way through when it comes on. Every single instrument, vocal, and lyric on this track....and the majority of his tracks....were all him. There will never be another of him. He is PRINCE.
Listen to Kris Kollins' new release 'River':
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