RATED NEXT Artist: Kolten Perine

DMV native Kolten Perine is a young recording artist breaking boundaries. His music is known for its soaring harmonies and sweet melodies. Smoothed-over beats, silky vocals, and refreshing instrumentals make Kolten’s music a style of his own.

At the tender age of 18, Kolten has mastered the piano, guitar, bass, and drums and takes credit for writing and producing his music. His performances have gained the attention of representatives from BET, Jive Records, Universal Motown Records, and the Recording Academy.

Rated R&B had the opportunity to sit down with Kolten to discuss how he got started, his musical influences, his take on the state of R&B, and more.

What inspired you to become an artist?

My family is a huge inspiration to me. I practically grew up in a church where my mom sang as part of a singing group, so I feel that I acquired my vocal skills from there. I’ve also always admired talented artists like Usher and Justin Timberlake. Hopefully, I’ll reach their level of success someday.

Who are some of your musical influences?

Usher, Justin Timberlake, Beyoncé, Joe, and Michael Jackson are all amazing performers who I look up to. I also love D’Angelo and Ginuwine for their soulful music styles. From a business perspective, I look up to Jay-Z because his entrepreneurship inspires me to eventually build my own empire and become a great asset to the music industry like he is.

You’re not only a singer, but you’re also a great dancer. Is dancing another passion of yours?

Yes I love to dance and connect my movement with music rhythms. I want to make music that people can dance to. I think my passion for dance came from playing the drums. With both, you have to be aware of rhythm and feel the beat.

Is there an EP or mixtape in the works? Can you give us some details? Talk to us about your inspiration behind the project. What can people expect from this project?

Yes, there is an album in the works. It will possibly be self-titled, so be on the lookout for it. I write music to make people feel good and about subjects that are relatable. My music is about things that are deeper than sex. I like to write about genuine love and real relationships. I take my inspiration from personal experience and hope that with this album, fans will see into my thoughts and what’s going on in my head. I want them to learn about the experiences I went through. I want them to get the actual Kolten Experience.

A lot of your songs are about love. Talk about your process of writing a song.

I don’t really have a process. I just go by my instincts and write about the emotions that I’m feeling at that very moment.

Speaking of love, what do you look for in a lover?

I think I’m a pretty funny person so I look for a person that is laid-back and fun. Some specific qualities are someone who is smart, chill, and can be both a friend and a partner. Hopefully that person can bring out the best in me and isn’t into arguing.

You’re no stranger here in the DMV. You’ve performed at the DMV Glee Showcase (hosted by Angie Ange) and the Catwalk Classics. How do you prepare for a show?

First of all I eat healthy to stay in shape. My godfather leads me through vocal warm-ups and then we rehearse the songs that I’m performing to make sure everything sounds right. I also work with my choreographer to perfect my dance moves and stage presence. I love working out before a show to get my energy up.

KD: Okay, last question. There’s been a debate that R&B music is dead. Do you agree or disagree? What’s your take on the state of R&B music today?

I understand why people might say that R&B music is dead, but I feel that it can never truly fade away. New artists like me are always bringing in new material and music to release. In my case, I’m trying to bring back an old school feel to R&B with my music. I’ve heard a lot of people say that today’s R&B is all about sex and superficiality. With my music, I want to remind people that R&B can still be soulful and about deeper emotions like true love. I’m a young artist trying to bring back the old school R&B but at the same time, I represent the future of the genre.

Any last words?

I hope to bring something new to the music scene while still keeping the soulful R&B roots. I’m coming out in full force so people better be ready for the complete Kolten Experience!