Messed!Up
Born in Muswell Hill, north London, in 1987, Michael Kiwanuka has established himself as one of Britain’s most distinctive singer-songwriters, blending classic soul, folk, blues and psychedelic rock into a deeply personal sound. The son of Ugandan parents who fled the regime of Idi Amin in the 1970s, Kiwanuka draws on a rich musical heritage while exploring themes of identity, belonging, love and the human condition.
Initially drawn to rock music, particularly Radiohead and Nirvana, Kiwanuka studied music before finding his voice as a solo artist. His early career included working as a session musician, an experience that helped shape his understated musicianship and soulful approach to songwriting. Influenced by artists such as Otis Redding, Bill Withers and Marvin Gaye, he developed a sound that balances intimate acoustic arrangements with warm vocals and expansive instrumentation.
Kiwanuka’s breakthrough came in 2012 with his debut album, Home Again. Its delicate melodies and vintage soul sensibilities earned widespread acclaim, a Mercury Prize nomination, and the BBC’s Sound of 2012 award. Four years later, Love & Hate marked a more ambitious direction, pairing his introspective songwriting with cinematic arrangements and psychedelic textures. The album reached number one on the UK charts, confirming his growing stature.
His self-titled third album, Kiwanuka, arrived in 2019, bringing together producer Danger Mouse and Inflo to create a richly layered record that explored personal and political themes. Tracks such as “You Ain’t the Problem” and “Hero” showcased his ability to combine timeless soul with contemporary concerns. The album won the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2020.
In 2024, Kiwanuka returned with Small Changes, a more restrained and intimate collection that drew inspiration from folk, soul and African music. Across his career, he has continued to evolve without losing the emotional honesty and distinctive warmth that define his work.
Now, Michael Kiwanuka opens another chapter with FUDGE, his fifth studio album, released today. Taking a new approach, Kiwanuka steps into the producer’s chair himself, shaping a collection that captures a looser, more spontaneous side of his creativity. Written around the same period as Small Changes, the album explores a different musical landscape, allowing songs to stretch out and develop organically. With its expansive arrangements and instinctive performances, FUDGE promises another compelling journey into the world of an artist whose soulful voice and fearless songwriting continue to resonate.
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Michael Kiwanuka: ‘FUDGE’
