Conversation With Kepa Lehtinen

Q: Hey, can you tell us a bit about where you come from, and what made you want to start a career in music?

A: When I got to study at the film department of Aalto university, I noticed how music is actually one of the most important aspects of film, and I became really interested in the possibilities of film music.
When I was still a student, I made film music as exercises, and from that I moved to work as a composer in advertising and film productions.

Q: And what other artists have you found yourself listening to lately?

A: I honestly listen to all kinds of music (from classical to Tiktok hits from metal to j-pop)
My Spotify claims that artists i have listened the most now are Ryuichi Sakamoto and Bon Jovi (I really love both – lol

Q: Who were your first and strongest musical influences?


A: Queen –  Seeing Freddie live is the coolest concert experience I’ve ever had

Q: You have just released your new single, ‘Waltz For The Sleeping Helsinki’. Is there a story behind it?


A: When I made music for the TV series “Made in Finland/Mobile 101” I made several adaptations of the Nokia tune (which is a waltz)
Since then I have been improvising dark waltzes on the piano. This melody came very easily.

Q: Can we expect a new EP or even an album from you in the near future?


A: I am preparing an album with the working title “My freak show”

Q: What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?


A: My sound is retro but ultra hifi. This is music from my heart that does not fit well any genre and if it communicates, I’m doing something right. Music is the only real magic in the world.

Q: Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it, or are you expecting something more?


A: Of course it would be great to be super popular

Q: Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song?


A: I play something on the piano and if an idea feels good, I start working on it. There may not be anything left of the original idea in the final composition.

Q: What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?


A: Making music for TV (especially commercials) can be pretty terrible if the client has a lot of ideas – lol

Q: On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?


A: I am truly amazed and proud that there are people in the world who listen to my music – it makes me happy.

LISTEN TO THE ARTIST:

Follow Kepa Lehtinen:

Spotify – YouTube – Facebook – Twitter