Low by DK – Music Review and Interview
22-year-old @DK_321 is a multi-talented artist representing the DMV. Her new track entitled, “LOW” is just one of many singles that have been released in representation of her multi-faceted skill set. As a singer, songwriter, and rapper DK shows out on this energetic strip club banger. Seamlessly transitioning from singing to rapping she effortlessly shows her versatility as an artist.
Being primarily inspired by Ne-Yo, it’s no wonder DK focuses on having a diverse talent base. As a 3-deminsional artist, DK started singing around the age of 12 and four years later she would begin to rap as well. An early interest in writing poetry evolved into her knack for songwriting.
The song begins with a mellow yet captivating intro that creates a certain ambiance particularly suited for the club atmosphere. Almost as soon as you press play you are coaxed into a subtle trance leading up to a drop that is coupled with repetitive claps that automatically energizes you! “LOW” also features an interesting experiential surprise that separates it from other club bangers. You can feel the song modulate as it transitions from the chorus to the verse. You don’t just listen to this song; you ‘experience’ it shifting back and forth from an energetic all-inclusive feel to a more laid-back zoned-out vibe.
As a fan of music you will appreciate that you can sense DK’s preparedness on this track. You can tell that she’s been classified as “ready” way before you even heard her name. In a time and day where being a rapper is the easiest job to obtain; by simply self-proclaiming one’s self as such and posting a sloppy recording online, DK delivers in each dimension of her artistry on this song. The flow is in pocket, the melodies are catchy, the hook is lively and engaging, the structure of the song is unique, and most important; the bars are delivered with confidence and attitude. (“I walk with the statue to Queen Latifah \ If you disrespect me you’ll be singing like Aretha”) Giving credit where credit is due, on the “LOW” track, DK is definitely focused, hungry and passionate about what she does.
By Kyle Williams – Exposed Vocals Music Reviewer
I’m an all-around music lover with an expansive music taste pallet and writer/lyricist in love with the art form of rhythm-and-poetry (rap). I have an extensive background in marketing and as of June 2015 I am an Internet Marketing (B.A.) Graduate. I’ve hosted live music events in the Metro Detroit Area and have worked with some of the best independent music artist that my birthplace has to offer.
Exclusive Interview
Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?
DK: I grew up in Upper Marlboro MD. I always sung around the house and around friends but never professionally or in a studio. I decided to become an artist my freshmen year of college. My teammate Zukye Ardella who is now my producer, pushed me to write and get in the studio and once I completed my first song I realized I need to make more and I loved it.
Exposed Vocals: How did you come up with that name? What was your inspiration behind it?
DK: Dk is just apart of my initials DeAnna Kimberlin
Exposed Vocals: What do you think about online music sharing? Do you ever give your music away for free? Why?
DK: I think online music sharing is a great idea when you are a new artist. Yes I do share my music for free.
Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?
DK: I believe that when you are a start-up artist and you believe in your music, you should push it to get it out there. Make your voice herd.
Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?
DK: If I ever make a mistake during a performance, I will just keep going. I was told growing up to never stop just keep going.
Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?
DK: No I do not tour but I will be on tour very soon
Exposed Vocals: Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? What is your usual songwriting process?
DK: I gather songwriting inspiration from real life situations. The process for me to write to a song goes as follows: Once the instrumental is sent to me I sit down in a room by my self and write for hours. When a song has a great beat I can usually get it done within one our.
Exposed Vocals: Do you have a band website? What online platforms do you use to share your music?
DK: The website I use to release my music is soundcloud. My user name is Dk_321
Exposed Vocals: What are some really embarrassing songs that we might find on your mp3 player?
DK: Some embarrassing songs that you might find my on my MP3 player/phone. I wouldn’t really consider them embarrassing but just unexpected. I like a lot of pop and house music.
Exposed Vocals: If you were given half a million dollars and a year off, what would you do? How would you spend it?
DK: If I was given half a million dollars and a year off, I would definitely pay off everything for my parents. I would also pay off my loans for college and then spend it on a house to call my own.
Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?
DK: Right now I am working on two singles that will be released in a few months. As of right now I can only give you the titles I do not want to give away two much information. One I titled Pour, Drink and Sip and the other one is titled Crazyeh.
Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?
DK: The way that I promote my music is mainly through social media. That is the best way for me and I also hire promoters to expand my fan base.
Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?
DK: If I could perform any where with any artist it would be NeYo. I have always admired how talented he is when it comes to singing, writing and producing songs. I also love his style as an artist and as an entertainer.
Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?
DK: As I stated before I am working on two new songs those are my main focus right now and then I will work on my mix tape that will be released late 2016.
Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
DK: If I were not making music I would just be all about my schoolwork. I am a college student graduating in December and I plan on going to graduate school in January.
Exposed Vocals: Do you remember buying your first album? Who was it? What was going through your head?
DK: I believe the first album I bought was destiny’s child. I’m not sure which one. I was excited they made great music and I knew that their album would be a hit.
Exposed Vocals: How do you juggle the rest of your responsibilities while trying to stay ahead in your music life?
DK: Everything involved in my life is about time management. Being a student athlete and missing class because of games taught me how to schedule time to do my work and also make extra time to get in the gym. So its basically the same staying on top of managing my time wisely.
Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in 2015?
DK: They should look forward to more great music with a unique style. I like to say changing the game.