Written by Holly Craig

In an industry where perfection is prioritised over individuality, A.B.Kei combines art with music. Carving out a sound and Identity that refuses to fit into the boxes of convention. Blending emotion and experimentation, their work feels intentional and distinctive. The kind of artistry that isn’t just heard, but felt.

As the presence of A.B.Kei continues to grow, so does the curiosity behind the artist’s story. In this exclusive interview, we explore their creative process and ability to stay private in their personal life.

We caught up with A.B.Kei to talk about their journey so far, the meaning behind their latest work, and what’s next.

TCC : You describe yourself as a “music painter” – what does that mean to you, and how does it shape the way you create ?

To me, being a music painter means approaching music with visual art. Instead of just writing a song, I think in layers, colors, textures, and space. Each sound feels like a brushstroke, and each element adds to an overall atmosphere. It shapes the way I create because I focus less on traditional structure and more like building a canvas through sound. However, I don’t see music painter as a title exclusive to me. Any artist who approaches music in a similar way can also be considered a music painter.

TCC : Your visuals feel just as important as your sound. Do you start with a concept, a sound, or an emotion first?

Most of the time, it starts with an emotion. That emotion can turn into a sound or sometimes a visual image in my head. From there, everything develops together, the music and visuals grow in the same direction. I don’t see them as separate things, but more like different ways of expressing the same idea.

TCC : Walk us through your creative process — from the first idea to the final release.

It usually starts with a feeling or a small idea, sometimes just a sound or melody or a vision. I build around that by layering different elements, experimenting with textures and structure. After that, I refine the song while thinking about the atmosphere it creates. At the same time, I start imagining visuals that match the mood. Once everything feels aligned, the sound, the emotion, and the visual direction, I move toward finishing and releasing it. 

TCC : Are there any unconventional techniques or inspirations you rely on when creating?

I don’t limit myself to traditional songwriting methods. Sometimes I approach a track more like designing a mood rather than writing a song. My background in painting and illustration also influences how I think about composition and balance. I’m often inspired by visual art, colors, fashion, and abstract ideas, not just music.

TCC : Your Instagram feels like a curated art gallery — how intentional is your visual identity?

It’s very intentional. I see my Instagram as an extension of my art, not just a place to post randomly. I try to keep a consistent mood and aesthetic so everything feels connected. It’s important to me that when someone visits my page, they can immediately understand the atmosphere I’m creating as an artist.

TCC : Your track “Doze” has a very distinct mood — what was the story or feeling behind it?

“Doze” came from a feeling of being slightly disconnected, like being caught between awareness and dreaming. It reflects a quiet, almost numb emotional state where things feel distant but still present. It’s a feeling of trying to rest and slow down in a busy world. I wanted the sound to capture that blurred line between reality and something more abstract.

TCC : Are there any genres or styles you want to explore in future releases?

I’m open to exploring different sounds as long as they feel true to my artistic direction. I’m interested in pushing further into experimental pop and blending it with other influences such as electronic, hyperpop,… For me, it’s less about sticking to one genre and more about continuing to evolve the atmosphere and emotion in my music.

TCC : What kind of emotions or experiences do you hope listeners take away from your music?

I hope listeners feel something personal, even if it’s hard to describe. My music isn’t always meant to give clear answers, but more to create a space where people can reflect on their own emotions. If someone feels understood or connected to a certain mood, that’s already meaningful to me.

TCC : How do you balance being personal in your art while still keeping parts of yourself private?

I think being personal doesn’t always mean being direct. I express emotions and ideas through sound and atmosphere rather than explaining everything literally. That allows me to stay honest in my art while still keeping certain parts of my life private.

TCC : How do you stay creatively motivated in such a fast-paced digital space?

It can be overwhelming at times, but I try to focus on my own pace and creative process instead of comparing myself too much. What keeps me motivated is the need to create and express something new. As long as I stay connected to that, it helps me move forward even in a fast environment.

TCC : What’s next for A.B.Kei — are there any upcoming projects or concepts you’re excited about?

Right now I’m focused on developing my sound and expanding the visual world around my music, I also want to have fun in the creating process. I’m working on new ideas that push further into the connection between sound and imagery focusing on my past stories and feelings. There will be more music videos coming that continue to explore that direction this year.

TCC : What’s the ultimate vision you’re working toward with your career?

My ultimate vision is to build a complete artistic world where music and visuals exist together as one. I’m not just aiming to release songs, but to create a body of work that feels immersive and consistent over time. I want people to experience my art not only through sound, but also through imagery, atmosphere, and emotion. In the long term, I hope to grow into an artist who can push creative boundaries while staying honest and true to my identity.

TCC : 3 words that describe your music

Abstract, colorful , experimental

TCC : A colour that represents your current era

Crimson — something mysterious, energetic, fierce but slightly melancholic

TCC : A song you wish you created

I don’t have a song I wish I created cause I’m happy with my own creations with my personal feelings and experiences

TCC : Your biggest inspiration right now

Lady Gaga has always been my inspiration as how she has overcome difficulties in her past to follow her dream as well as her uniqueness in her music, art, fashion and visual concepts.

TCC : Dream stage or city to perform in

Tokyo and California 

With a clear sense of direction, A.B.Kei is building something that feels both personal and lasting. It’s not just about the music – it’s about the world they’re creating around it. As they continue to evolve, one thing is certain : this is only the beginning.

Stay tuned with The Chord Chat for more interviews, reviews, and emerging voices shaping the sound of now.