Culture

KAYO | CHICAGO ARTISTS TO WATCH RECAP

PrettyK

April 19, 2026

Kayo is a Chicago-based artist blending sharp Midwest lyricism with global soundscapes. Known for his introspective bars, relentless flow, and genre-fluid execution. With co-signs from platforms like On The Radar, Lyrical Lemonade & Jay Electronica, and a catalog rooted in authenticity, Kayo represents the next wave of rap: versatile, visionary, and unfiltered. From drill to soul samples, every release is precision-crafted to move culture.

Q&A WITH KAYO (MAY 2025)

When you started your music journey, where was your confidence level?
- My confidence was high from the start and only grew over time.
Who was your biggest inspiration while growing up?
- J. Cole growing up, and Jay-Z as I got older.
Did you ever want to give up in the process?
- No, I always believed I would be successful.
What do you need to work on as an artist?
- Thinking outside the box and stepping outside my comfort zone.
When did you take music seriously?
- Around 13 years old.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
- Doing music full time, touring, and expanding into business, tech, and brand creation.
Record deal or independent?
- It depends on the terms. I’m business-minded.
What was the process behind your last project?
- Domino was a long, stop-and-go process that evolved from a joint project into a solo one using new and older material.
Favorite visuals you’ve created?
- “Talk” for the experience, and “Gone” as a recent favorite.
Biggest career moment so far?
- Getting a DM from Jay Electronica showing support.
Do you write your own music?
- Yes.
Thoughts on ghostwriters?
- They can help because no one is great at everything, especially melodies and hooks.
Dream collaborations?
- Kehlani, Doja Cat, Jack Harlow, and Russ.
Chicago artists you want to work with?
- Chance the Rapper, Saba, and Vic Mensa.
Favorite thing about being an artist?
- Freedom and creative expression.
Fun fact about you?
- I play violin really well.
Guilty pleasure?
- Candy, I’ve got a serious sweet tooth.
What makes you smile?
- Seeing my family happy.