Vevo’s LIFT program connects today’s up-and-coming and most-relevant artists to audiences around the world through music video content. Not too long ago, they named Koffee (born Mikayla Simpson in Spanish Town, Jamaica), a Vevo Lift Artist. Barely into her 20s, the self-described “sing-jay-guitarist” has ushered modern reggae back into the pop spotlight.
Koffee first began working with Vevo in 2019 as a Vevo DSCVR artist, releasing performances of “Toast” and “Raggamuffin.” Now, she reconnects with Vevo inside an 18th-century London mansion, which signifies that Koffee is ready to ascend into superstardom. Check out her performance video for her “Run Away” single, which is the third and final performance in her LIFT series.
Koffee – “Run Away” Vevo LIFT performance
“The vibe that runs through this song—escaping to paradise, running away—is probably as we were away at writing camp. Sat by the seaside, literally. I was thinking, ‘What if we could just get on a boat, go out into the ocean, and just live there with everything we need?’” — Koffee explained via Apple Music
‘Runaway’ is featured on Koffee’s new album, entitled, “Gifted.” According to Koffee, the 10-track project is “about recreating those uplifting vibes that I had in my mind.” The album also features the standout single, “Shine,” which kicks off the party, and elevates the vibes to a higher positive level. The traditional reggae tune is likely to be on repeat on our Spotify playlist.
Koffee – “Shine” Vevo LIFT performance
“The first part of this song tells a story, a real ghetto story. ‘Sun’s rising, gun violence, police sirens’—that’s a regular day for the youths. This song speaks to them, especially with the Jamaican and Caribbean scene right now pushing this vibe of senseless crime. These artists probably think it doesn’t affect anyone, and some don’t even care if it does. So, consider this song here a counter to that: if someone’s coming with that vibe, cool, I’ll come with this vibe and show you what’s good.” — Koffee explained via Apple Music
Vevo and Koffee closely collaborated to draw inspiration from the visuals and aesthetics of the West Indies. They successfully used projection, light, and set design in a neutral yet elegant location. The appealing video was shot in a townhouse in Central London. The capture was designed to showcase Koffee’s energy and positivity, surrounded by her band and gospel choir. The video aimed to play with the audience’s sense of space, proving that the West Indies is not necessarily tied to a geographical location. But it incorporates a vibe, feeling, and power present in the spirit of its people.
To further understand why Vevo choose Koffee as a Vevo Lift Artist, check out her “Where I’m From” performance.
Koffee – “Where I’m From” Vevo LIFT performance
“This is a more hardcore, dancehall track dedicated to Jamaica. When I’m away, I miss the warmth—especially in Europe, where it’s freezing. But I also miss the people. There’s a quote from Martin Luther King. He says, ‘In Jamaica, I feel like a human being.’ And it’s because of the way the people relate to everyone and make you feel. There’s a certain warmth to it that I love.” — Koffee explained via Apple Music
Launched in 2011, Vevo’s artist development program shines a spotlight on the world’s freshest new talent. Vevo LIFT alumni include the likes of Jorja Smith, Anne-Marie, James Bay, Lewis Capaldi, YUNGBLUD, AJ Mitchell, Sam Fender, Sigrid, Ella Mai, Billie Eilish, Khalid, and more.
Koffee
“We’re thrilled to continue 2022’s LIFT program with Koffee. Her ambition, positivity, and creative energy are unmatched, all qualities that are incredibly valuable in such a heavily collaborative project. We were so excited to have the opportunity to work with her and assist in spreading such a positive, uplifting message to her fans, and hope everyone enjoys this beautiful content.” – stated Claudia de Wolff, Vice President, C&P, EU.
Positivity shines throughout Koffee’s music and manifests itself in her success. Her 2019 debut EP, “Rapture,” took the sounds of new Jamaica and presented them to the world. Now, Koffee has become both the first-ever female and youngest ever artist to win the Best Reggae Album award at the GRAMMYs. A bonafide breakout star, Koffee has collaborated with the likes of J Hus, Gunna, Protoje, and Daniel Caesar.
Koffee – Bong Mines “Artist Talk” cover
“I know one song won’t change everything, but all I have is my voice. So, that’s what I’ll use to speak out. I might not be affected by certain injustices directly, but living in a place like Jamaica, you can’t avoid the truth of it. There’s youths here that have grown up with violence right on their doorstep, and I’m not just representing myself now—I also must speak out for them.” — Koffee explained via Apple Music
Recently, Koffee stepped on stage with WizKid in front of 20,000 people at London’s legendary O2 venue, fronted global campaigns for the likes of Nike Air Jordan and Clarks. Also, she performed the title track to this year’s acclaimed, The Harder They Fall film, on a stacked soundtrack that featured the likes of Jay-Z, Jadakiss, Barrington Levy, Cee Lo Green, Backroad Gee, and Lauryn Hill.
Koffee – “Gifted” album
We recommend adding Kofee’s “Shine” single to your favorite contemporary reggae playlist. Also, let us know how you feel about it in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, “That’s All Folks!” Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment – the hot spot for new music. Furthermore, always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E).
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