Nigerian singer-songwriter Kahren Chisom Anyanwu, better known as Kahren, is carving a niche for herself in the music industry. With her latest single Sativa, she brings a deeply personal narrative to life, reflecting her approach to storytelling that intertwines fiction and non-fiction.
In an interview with More Branches, Kahren speaks to us about her journey so far, sharing insights into her music, her creative process, and the path that led her to the industry.
Sativa: A Personal Reflection
Kahren describes Sativa as one of her most personal works to date. The single showcases her ability to tell stories from both fictional and real-life perspectives, a balance she credits as a key part of her creative identity. “Storytelling is central to my music,” she shares. “With Sativa, I wanted to bring something deeply personal while also leaving room for interpretation.”
For Kahren, music has always been part of her life, though she didn’t initially see it as a full-time career. “My parents are music lovers, so I grew up surrounded by it,” she recalls. “But I didn’t think I was going to do it full-time until I started singing and putting my work out there. The reception was so welcoming, and that encouraged me to continue.”
Her break into the industry came when she connected with a producer through Empawa, the talent incubator that has supported many African artists. “I was trying to figure something out in music when I got their contact. The partnership made things a lot easier for me,” Kahren explains.
Despite her success, Kahren is still exploring her artistic identity. “I haven’t found my sound yet, which is why I’m doing a lot of bending and fusion,” she says. This openness to experimentation is evident in her discography, which blends genres and influences to create something uniquely hers.
Kahren credits the women who paved the way before her for making her journey a little smoother. “The work they did opened so many doors. It’s inspiring to see how far they’ve come and how they’ve shaped the industry,” she reflects.
Like many artists, Kahren faced challenges when introducing her music career to her family. “My parents had their fears initially, but they’ve adjusted over time. I’ve always been transparent with them, and they’ve seen how much music is tied to my identity,” she shares.
Kharen is a voice to watch in the Nigerian and global music landscape. With Sativa marking her return, fans can look forward to more boundary-pushing music from this rising star.
