Back in 2023, we stumbled upon a gem on the internet Day 5—a track that had us locked in from the jump. That’s when KANG, Abo-Keze Kangndum Ewimbi first landed on our radar, and we’ve been keeping tabs on his journey ever since. Fast forward to 2025, and the DMV-based artist has been relentless in his grind, not just as a musician but as an entrepreneur. His collective-turned-label, Room242, has been making serious moves, and with the release of their latest EP, KANG is proving that consistency and vision go a long way.
We caught up with him for an in-depth conversation to unpack his evolution—from spearheading Room 242 as a home for rising talent to balancing life as a student and entrepreneur. With a résumé that boasts performances alongside GRAMMY-nominated Duckwrth, a WAMMIES nod, and a stint at Harvard’s No Label Academy, KANG is shaping a legacy that blends artistry, business, and culture.
Keep reading as we dive into his story, his creative process, and what’s next for him and his collective.
Early Beginnings & Discovering Passion for Music
MC: Kang, you’re a first-generation Cameroonian-American, and your heritage seems to play a significant role in your music. Can you tell us a bit about your early years growing up in Cameroon and how those experiences shaped you as an artist today?
KANG: yeah for real, I’m a first-generation Cameroonian-American, born in Maryland but deeply connected to both my African roots and the Black American community around me. Growing up, my household was filled with legends like Koffi Olomide, P-Square, and Davido, which naturally pulled me toward African music, while hip-hop, R&B, pop, and rock shaped my sound even further. Music has always been a part of me—if you ask my mom, she’ll say I wrote my first song at seven months old! I started with a gospel band as a kid, formed a rock band in middle school, and kept evolving. By 2015-2016, I knew this was my path, but it wasn’t until 2020 that things started clicking, and people began paying attention. That’s when I knew I had something real.
MC: Growing up in DMV, how did this environment influence your creative direction? Was there a significant cultural adjustment, and how did that impact your music?
KANG: The essence of my music comes straight from culture—it’s deeply rooted in where I come from. Even with my latest release, Zongka I pulled a lot of inspiration from my parents’ village—not just in the sound but in the styling, the lyrics, the whole energy of the song. I always try to blend different elements because, to me, that fusion is the truest representation of how I was raised and the journey that shaped me.
No matter what genre I experiment with, I want there to be no question about who I am and where I’m from. When people hear my music or see my visuals, I want them to instantly recognize that it’s Kang—that the influences are real, intentional, and a reflection of my story.
Kang ‘s Creative Journey, Milestones & Industry Recognition
MC: Your track “Day 5,” which dropped in June 2023, became a viral hit. What was the inspiration behind that song, and how did it feel to see your music resonate so well with listeners on social media?
KANG: Day 5 came together naturally. I was in a music production class at the University of Maryland, messing around on the computer when I came up with the chord progression. I later built on it—adding strings and Afro-inspired progressions—before sending it to my producer friend, who helped take it to another level. We kept refining it until everything clicked.
The lyrics flowed just as easily. The track captures that rush of falling for someone fast, knowing it might not last but still wanting more. It’s a feeling a lot of people can relate to—meeting someone, getting caught up in the moment, and not wanting it to end. And the melody? It just felt right—like it was always meant to be.
MC: You were selected by the Grammy Museum to participate in the 14th Annual Grammy Camp program in 2018. That’s such an impressive accomplishment! How did that experience influence your understanding of the music business, and how has it impacted your career since?
KANG: Wow, that’s such an interesting question—I don’t think I’ve ever been asked that before. The Grammy Camp was years ago, but it was a game-changer for me. Before that, everything I knew about making music was purely theoretical. I was watching YouTube videos, and experimenting on my own, but I didn’t understand the business side of things. Being at the camp and learning directly from industry executives made everything feel more real—more attainable. Before, the idea of being in the music industry felt like this far-off dream, but that experience gave me perspective. I think I was about 17 at the time, and looking back now, I can see how much it shaped me. It gave me a sense of direction, like, okay, this isn’t just a passion—it’s something I can build a career around.
MC: Can you share a memory from your childhood or early teenage years that you think contributed to your passion for music? Was there a specific moment that made you realize this was the career path for you?
One of my earliest moments realizing music was my path was in middle school when I joined Rock Band, a program where we learned music history and played instruments. My first performance at a 7th-grade winter concert was unforgettable—the crowd’s reaction gave me this insane rush, and I thought, Maybe I could do this.
Over the years, performing has shaped my philosophy—when you’re on stage, you control the audience’s experience, and that energy exchange is electrifying. Even as a kid, I was drawn to it. I’d watch The Wiggles, grab pots, pans, and a fufu stick, and pretend I was in the band—much to my mom’s frustration. Looking back, I was just getting an early start.
MC: Your music blends several genres, including R&B, Afro-pop, and even elements of your native Cameroonian roots. How did you discover your unique sound, and who are some of the artists or genres that influenced your musical style?
KANG: Hmm, I’d answer that in a few different ways. My major influences, of course, include Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, but I’ve also been heavily inspired by Big Time Rush, Young Thug, Gunna, Koffi Olomide, Davido, and Rema. It’s hard for me to put into words exactly what goes into how I make music, but the best way I can describe it is that I create Black music —music for the entire diaspora to enjoy.
What ties together all the different genres and styles I explore, and the people who connect with my music, is that they’re part of the Black diaspora, whether on the continent or beyond. And that’s something I love. My music isn’t just about sound—it’s about being a bridge, a unifier, a space where Black people, no matter where they are—Africa, the U.S., the U.K., South America—can find community. I think that naturally reflects how I grew up in the DMV area, an incredibly diverse place. My music carries that same energy, blending cultures, influences, and experiences into something that feels both personal and universal.
MC: In 2023, you were selected by IDK and No Label to participate in the No Label Academy program at Harvard University. Can you talk about how this experience helped you grow both as an artist and an entrepreneur?
KANG: You know how I mentioned that Grammy Camp was the first time I truly realized this could all be possible? Well, fast forward to No Label Academy at Harvard—that was another defining moment that cemented that belief for me. The program didn’t just inspire me; it gave me a real plan, tangible ideas, and the tools to execute my goals. A few months after No Label, my music started to gain traction because I was applying everything I had learned—but with even more consistency and intention.
Beyond just the knowledge, the connections I made through No Label were invaluable. The mentors, the teachers, the peers in my cohort—we built a community that continues to grow, and that’s been a major pillar of my journey. Having that network, that reassurance, and access to resources has made all the difference. It’s not just about making music; it’s about building something sustainable, and No Label helped me see exactly how to do that.
What It Means to Kang To Build a Movement
MC: With your debut EP, 242FM, and being the founder of 242 Records, how did the idea of building a music collective come about, and what are the goals you have for the collective in the future?
KANG: The idea for the collective goes way back—let me take you down memory lane to middle school. Remember when I mentioned my rock band? That’s actually how 242 first started. Room 242 was the spot where we all hung out, played music, and dreamed big. I always knew I was going to do music, but I didn’t know exactly how. What I did know, though, was that I’m a very friend-oriented person—friends, family, and community have always been at the core of who I am. And I realized early on that there was no way I was going to do this alone.
I thought, What if I built something with the people I trust? People who would keep me grounded, keep me appreciative and keep pushing me forward. That’s the essence of 242—doing what you love with the people you love. That’s the foundation we’ve built everything on, and we just keep that same energy, making music that feels true to us.
The vision? I want 242 to grow into something bigger, something international. I want people to be intrigued by what we’re building, and to feel connected to our movement. I want them at our shows, at our parties, promoting our music, rocking with us like they’re part of the family—because that’s what this is. It’s not just a collective, it’s an ecosystem, and everyone who vibes with us is a part of it.
MC: What role does your native Cameroonian culture play in the music you create today? Are there specific elements of Cameroon’s musical heritage that you feel particularly connected to or inspired by?
KANG: One thing I’m still figuring out is how to incorporate more traditional village sounds into my music. I haven’t cracked the code yet, but when I do—trust me, people will know and hear it. My sister, who also makes music, has already mastered it in such a beautiful way, and I love how she pulled it off.
I also try to weave in themes that matter to my community whenever I can. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the full expression, from the sound to the fashion to the language. I’ve been thinking a lot about incorporating more Pidgin into my music, too. My understanding of it is still a work in progress, but since I learn best when I write, I figured, why not practice through my music?
These are just a few of the ways I want to bring my culture into everything I create—not just in the sound but in how I present myself and my whole lifestyle.
MC: As the founder of the DMV music collective 242, how do you see the music scene in the Maryland area evolving? What role does your collective play in shaping that future?
KANG: I love that you asked this because I think about it all the time. The DMV music scene, from my perspective, is bubbling right under the surface, and in the next few years, I genuinely believe it’s going to skyrocket. There’s so much creative energy here—not just in music, but in fashion, science, food, and so many different spaces. People don’t talk about it as much as I’d like, but the movement is happening.
I want 242 to be at the forefront of this wave, helping push the culture forward and creating opportunities for other artists in the area. What’s especially exciting about this renaissance is that more and more music industry executives are coming out of the DMV. Just last year, two of the biggest songs in the world—Million Dollar Baby and Shaboozey—were from DMV artists. That’s huge! One thing I love about the DMV is that it has everything. No matter what you’re looking for—sonically, creatively, culturally—you can find it here.
MC: You have not only pursued music but also made strides as an entrepreneur in the entertainment industry. What’s the most challenging part of balancing your artistic work with running a business, and how do you handle it?
KANG: That’s exactly why I have my manager—she handles the business side of my solo career, lifting a lot of the weight off my shoulders, and I truly appreciate her for that. But when it comes to balancing everything—because, yeah, 242 is a business too—it’s challenging. At the same time, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the journey start to pay off.
I wouldn’t even say I’ve fully figured out the balance yet, but what makes it manageable is that I’m doing this with my friends—people I genuinely care about, and who care about me. That foundation keeps everything solid. We move with one mind, and that makes all the difference. The hardest part, though? Sometimes I have all these ideas swirling in my head, but putting them down on paper in a way that others can fully understand—that’s a whole other challenge.
MC: Music can be demanding, especially for someone in your position. How do you practice self-care and maintain a sense of balance in your personal life?
KANG: I wouldn’t say I have a balance because, honestly, I’m making music 24/7. But the way I see it, music is my self-care. My hobbies? Watching TV, hanging out with friends and family—and I make music with my friends, so in a way, that’s me practicing self-care too. I kind of figured out how to do both at the same time. Like, when I’m in the studio recording with my people, it doesn’t even feel like work—it feels like taking a break while still creating. Beyond that, I’m just always on the go. I love it, even though I know not everyone would be a fan of that pace. But for me? I don’t mind. It feels good. And when it comes to my music, I try to make it something people will feel—whether that’s something they can sing along to or dance to. If it makes people move, then I know I’m doing something right.
MC: Can you tell us more about Room 242 Records and what differentiates it from other music collectives or labels out there? What’s the vision behind the label, and how do you decide what kind of music to promote?
KANG: I could answer that in a bunch of ways, but honestly, the difference between Room 242 Records and any other collective or label? None of them have us. But beyond that, what sets us apart is the community we’re building. It’s bigger than just the artists. It’s bigger than just the people we work with. It’s the people from where we live. I don’t know if this makes sense, but I see it as more of a community label. The goal is to expand, grow, and become a powerhouse—a label that not only thrives but also shines a light on all the untapped talent around us. Some of the names you don’t know yet? Give it a couple of years, and I promise you, they’ll be up on billboards.
As for the kind of music that comes out of 242, it all comes down to making music that sounds like where we’re from. Sometimes that means incorporating real-life elements—things that feel authentic to us. Now, sure, other labels might have the size and the money to hire a whole team to get things done, but the way I see it, it’s not just about collecting a bunch of pieces—it’s about owning something different. It’s like a salad versus a melting pot if that makes sense. We’re not here to blend into one thing—we’re here to bring different flavors together while still keeping our essence intact.
What’s Next for KANG?
MC: What’s one thing your fans might be surprised to learn about you that doesn’t necessarily come through in your music?
KANG: There’s probably a lot, but off the top of my head—I know for a fact that I’m a huge nerd. Like, I love old books, I’m a big fan of the Percy Jackson series, and of course, Harry Potter had me in a chokehold growing up. Anything superhero-related? I’m into it. And anime? Yeah, that’s part of the lineup too. I don’t know if people would find that surprising or even interesting, but hey, that’s me.
MC: As a senior in college with a burgeoning music career, what does your future look like after graduation? Are you planning to dive deeper into your music full-time, or do you see yourself blending music with other aspects of the entertainment industry?
KANG: Right now, I’m in my finals, so the way I see it, a year after college is all about taking music to the next level. I love the way my life is set up right now, and graduating just means I finally get to have more time to go all in on music—no distractions, just full focus.
MC: If you had the opportunity to create a dream project with unlimited resources—whether that’s an album, music video, or anything else—what would that look like?
KANG: It’s going to be an album—maybe even two or three. But whatever I drop, it’s got to be something people can truly enjoy, something they can sing and dance to. There’s going to be a real concept behind it, and I want to invest heavily in the visuals too. Features? Yeah, but only where they make sense. I’m not just throwing people on tracks for the sake of it. And I probably won’t overload the albums with too many songs either—I get that attention spans are getting shorter, and I don’t even enjoy albums that go past 15 tracks. I just want to create my version of Thriller—something timeless.
MC: You’re someone who’s always learning and evolving, from your studies to your participation in initiatives like the No Label Academy. What’s next for Kang in terms of personal growth and future music projects?
KANG: I want to keep putting out more singles, dropping content, and just staying consistent with everything. At the same time, I’m also working on an EP, but I don’t want to rush it. I feel like the EP will be ready when the demand for it is undeniable—when people are asking for more Kang when they’re locked in and hungry for it. That’s when I’ll know it’s time. Beyond that, I want to make sure my team is running as efficiently as possible because when everything is in place—when we have the right resources and funding—that’s when we can scale this the right way.
MC: Finally, with your rapidly growing fanbase and your commitment to representing Cameroonians and African culture through your music, what legacy do you hope to leave in the global music scene? How do you want people to remember your journey in the music industry?
KANG: I want to be remembered as one of the greats—the greatest to ever touch a microphone. But beyond that, I want people to look at what I’m doing and feel like they can do it too because, at the end of the day, me and you? We’re no different. I want to be that spark for some kid out there, the reason they start making music, the reason they believe in themselves. And it’s bigger than just music—I want to build a platform that allows me to make an impact beyond just the songs I create. I want to be in a position to do good, to influence my country and the world in ways that matter.
As for dream collaborations, Rema, Asake, and Burna Boy are definitely at the top of my list. There are specific songs I already have in mind for each of them. I’d also love to work with P-Square—if they’re still together—and Flavour. Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Libianca are on my radar too. And Tems? Yeah, I have a song in mind that I’d love to work on with her.
And that’s a wrap! Kang’s journey from Day 5 shaping Room 242—is just getting started, and his passion for the culture is undeniable.
Did you enjoy this conversation? Let us know! Stay tuned, follow us, and most importantly, STREAM Kang’s latest music —you won’t want to miss what’s next.
