Words are powerful. Everything we see and experience was a thought first and was expressed in words. Doctrines influence nations. When this fact is embraced, it empowers those who understand what can be accomplished by being deliberate with what we speak and write. We create in the moment, and life can change in these moments based on our choices and the words we internalize.
Milwaukee’s Kenza Dawn embraces this mindset and expresses herself with music that speaks to our power and the connection to the universe. Rolling out sat down with her to talk about her project, Feminetics, and learn more about her.
Tell us about yourself.
I am Kenza Dawn; a hip-hop tricked–out on the neo soul tip femcee, wordsmith, singer-songwriter, actress. Artist conduit.
What is it about what you do that makes you unique?
My perspective. My approach. I see my words, my music, myself as a gift to the world. This is not just what I do. It’s who I am.
How did you get started in your profession?
I fell in love with words at an early age. I wrote my first song when I was 4, but didn’t perform publicly until after high school. Then I started doing open mics and getting a little attention. I guess I don’t look like I can flow.
What would you say is the most challenging aspect of what you do?
It depends on the day. There are many challenges but I really don’t see one as being greater than the other. They’re just different parts of the same process. I try to be in the moment, stay committed to a resolution mindset, and approach each challenge as an opportunity for growth to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Speak about your most recent project Feminetics, why did you call it that? And what is the woman’s role in hip-hop as a culture?
Feminetics is the genetics of a femcee; a sampling of my artistic makeup. I am unapologetically feminine and that’s reflected in my expression. The wombman’s role in hip-hop is simple — to be a wombman. To speak from that place and provide an authentic creative perspective. Women have been conditioned to believe that masculinity equals power. But our power comes from knowing, embracing, and celebrating our wombanhood. That provides balance. Hip-hop needs a relevant, connected wombman’s creative expression to be balanced. We are so much more than we are currently being portrayed as and it’s our responsibility to set the record straight.
Who are the biggest personal and professional influences in your life?
My family. Lyte, Lauryn, Latifah, Erykah, Jill, and Sade.
Tell us about the last book you read. Why did you choose it?
The Alchemist. I needed a refresher.
What encouraging words do you have for our readers?
Be brave enough to love yourself and be your authentic self without apology. Your power comes from knowing and embracing who you are. Who you are is always enough.
You can purchase her most recent project Feminetics on iTunes
