Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Nov 25: “I will be on the cover of Vogue one day,” says Bengaluru’s homegrown rap star Killa K, whose dreams span music and fashion in equal measure.
The rapper, born Kevin Lourd, is all set for his directorial debut with the music video of Nalla Pulla. The teaser, released in mid-September, has already created a buzz. Stepping behind the camera for the first time, he is excited to shape the visuals, aesthetics and storytelling in his own style.
In a conversation with The Hindu, Killa K recalled his journey that began with Va Voi, the 2021 single that went viral and brought him instant recognition. He says his music captures the raw, vibrant pulse of Bengaluru’s streets, and his authenticity has helped him carve a unique space for himself.
Growing up in Sultanpalya, he credits his friends and family as his biggest strength. “They inspire me,” he says, adding that Va Voi was created with almost no resources — a sock used as a mic filter, a blanket over his head, and his childhood friend Sohan Gowda filming and editing the video. “My parents had no idea I was shooting it,” he smiles.
His early years introduced him to two contrasting worlds — the polished lifestyle of St Joseph’s School and the hardworking neighbourhood life of Sultanpalya. One showed him what was possible; the other taught him grit and humility.
Killa K’s music videos reflect Bengaluru as he sees it — bold, colourful, chaotic and full of character. “The houses may be close together and the streets crowded, but my people are rich in culture and warmth,” he says.
Speaking about his 2024 collaboration Podu Mike with Singaporean Tamil rapper Yung Raja, he describes it as a dance track made for the streets. The song celebrates the fusion of cultures through Bengaluru Tamil slang, thapang beats and the sound of Parai drums. “My language made me who I am. I’m not cool — Tamil is cool,” he says.
For fans waiting for the next big drop, the rapper hints at a major shift. Inspired by the evolving phases of Eminem, he promises “something different, fresh and extraordinary,” signalling what he calls an upcoming revolution in his music.