By: Staff
We discovered Kenza Chekkouri through her debut release, “Set Me Free,” and from the very first listen, we were captivated. This song is a masterclass in musical storytelling, effortlessly blending jazz, neo-soul, and bossa nova into an experience that feels both intimate and expansive.
The track opens with a beautifully resonant electric guitar, its airy, open tones immediately setting a dreamy, weightless atmosphere. As the beat kicks in and Kenza’s vocals emerge, the effect is pure magic. Her soft, breathy delivery, infused with effortless falsetto, creates an intoxicating warmth, making it impossible not to feel transported. Her voice carries a delicate yet deeply expressive texture, striking the perfect balance between vulnerability and confidence. When we heard the lyrics:
“Mesmerized / we looked into each other’s eyes / stood still paralyzed”
-the moment felt completely spellbinding. Kenza’s vocal phrasing is distinct and instantly recognizable, an embellishment technique so uniquely hers that it imprints itself in your memory. What follows is an exhilarating, swift drum fill, tight yet fluid, acting as a seamless transition that drives the song forward with dynamic energy.
The arrangement is brimming with brilliance. Twinkling piano flourishes evoke a cosmic, weightless sensation, as if floating among the stars. The percussion is both rhythmic and free-flowing, maintaining a bright, organic energy that feels effortless yet intentional. Every instrumental layer is purposeful, weaving together to create a rich, immersive soundscape.
Then comes the chorus, a moment of sheer transcendence. When Kenza delivers:
“Set me free,”
- it feels like a sonic embrace, wrapping the listener in a lush, soaring melody. There is an undeniable lift, a euphoric sensation that washes over you like a wave of sound. It is the kind of chorus that lingers, resonating long after the song ends.
Toward the end, a stunningly rich piano interlude leads into a mesmerizing call and response section, where Kenza’s soulful vocal runs showcase her deep neo-soul sensibilities.
Just when we thought the song had reached its peak, she seamlessly transitions into a scatting harmony over the guitar, an unexpected yet masterful touch that ties everything together with elegance and finesse.
The production is equally impressive. “Set Me Free” carries the raw, organic essence of a live recording, capturing each instrument with clarity while preserving its natural warmth. The mix feels spacious, allowing every sonic detail to breathe without sounding over-engineered. It is a testament to the skillful production that the track retains its authenticity while sounding polished and immersive.
What an incredible performance. Kenza Chekkouri has unveiled a stunning display of artistry, vocal mastery, and emotive depth. With “Set Me Free,” she has proven she possesses all the qualities of a rising star, and we could not be more thrilled to have discovered her. This is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable journey, and we cannot wait to hear what she creates next.
Raised in the vibrant city of Marrakech, Kenza Chekkouri grew up surrounded by the diverse musical traditions of Morocco, yet her artistic path was shaped by a far-reaching palette of global sounds. From an early age, she was drawn to music’s ability to transcend borders, eventually finding her own voice through jazz studies in Paris and advanced songwriting training in London. Though she was the first musician in her family, creativity ran deep in her lineage, fostering an innate passion that led her to pick up the guitar in her teenage years, an instrument that would become central to her artistic expression. Before fully embracing a career in music, Kenza navigated the worlds of fashion and consulting for seven years, gaining a unique perspective that now informs her artistry. Her sound is a seamless fusion of jazz’s sophistication, the rhythmic allure of bossa nova, and the expressive depth of neo-soul. Drawing influence from luminaries like Alicia Keys, Lianne La Havas, Mayra Andrade, Oum, and Olivia Dean, she crafts songs that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Now based between Paris and London, Kenza has already graced stages across Morocco, France, and the UK, even performing at Nashville’s prestigious Tin Pan South Festival. With a growing repertoire and an undeniable ability to connect with audiences, she stands at the cusp of an exciting new chapter, ready to carve out her place in the world of contemporary soul.
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