Singer-songwriter LU KALA’s unique approach to pop music lead her to co-writing a song with DVSN and Stephen Kozmeniuk (Shawn Hook, Dua Lipa, Nicki Minaj) that appeared on Jennifer Hudson’s third studio album. Since then, LU has worked tirelessly at building her career as an artist. Her distinct sound, inventive songwriting and vivacity have landed her in rooms with industry vets such as BabyFace.

This is Episode #156 of the Welcome! podcast.

2018 has been one of LU KALA’s busiest years yet. She was featured in Afro-Punk Magazine, performed at TD Celebrates the Junos, Canada’s Walk Of Fame 20^th Anniversary Gala and attended a writing workshop with BabyFace, James Fauntleroy (Bruno Mars) and MarcLo.

LU KALA was also selected as the RBC Emerging Musicians Program’s grand prize winner for 2018.

LU KALA’s debut single DCMO (Don’t Count Me Out) was released in September and has gained over 100K streams. The single was added to several official playlists including Spotify’s It’s a Bop, Indie Pop Chillout and New Music Friday Canada. It is also featured on Apple Music’s Breaking Pop playlist, Pure Pop and Pop Deluxe Radio. Shortly after its release, DCMO (Don’t Count Me Out) was selected as Newcap’s (now Stingray) Trending Track for October and November. As the Trending Track, DCMO(Don’t Count Me Out) was played on all of Newcap’s Top 40 stations in Canada. DCMO (Don’t Count Me Out) was also played on Stingray’s Hit List, CBC Radio Radio 2’s After Dark and Corus’ 91.5 The Beat in Kitchener and has so far peaked at #45 on the Mediabase Canada Top-40 chart.

DCMO is a song that demonstrates LU’s remarkable musical ability and solidifies her presence among those to watch in 2019    

“I never realized that I was doing anything different as far as creating music goes until someone pointed out that I had a gift. I find myself writing about the things that I was afraid to say out loud for so long…music has given me a voice.”

With a focus on self-love and inclusivity, LU states, “it’s important to me that all women know there is room for them no matter what career or life path they choose. As a black pop Canadian artist with Congolese roots, I’d like to continue to release music my way, and kick down the doors for all girls and women to follow.”

Listen below: