Music Q&A: Ironik

How would you describe your sound?
My music gets put into a few boxes, I think. Some say R&B, some say hip-hop, some say grime or pop, but I think it’s just a mixture of everything. I grew up loving garage music and R&B, so with a bit of that and also my love of grime, it gives you my sound.

What informs your music and songwriting?
I was always inspired by the producer and MC culture in the UK so I think that’s what initially got me into the production, and then writing my own stuff eventually. Nowadays I have to go through something before I write anything down, as most of my songs are about my real life.

How have you evolved as an artist over the years?
You can hear the progression in the music from my last album to this, man. It’s been a journey finding my lane and sound but I think I’ve got there now – from my cadence to the flows I’m using on this album, etc.

What are you up to at the moment artistically?
The next step is putting together the visuals to the tracks on the album, so that will be what I get up to next. I really want to do some cool videos.

What’s on your rider?
I don’t ask for much if I’m honest. As long as there is water, a few towels and maybe a little red wine then I’m fine.

Tell us your most embarrassing or surreal experience.
There have been a few surreal experiences for me. Coming out at the Mobo Awards in Scotland to perform Stay With Me was amazing. In front of 11,000 people, being filmed for my childhood award show was such a highlight for me!