Brent Faiyaz stands alone

Brent Faiyaz is a singular figure in modern R&B.

Self-releasing and highly selective in who he works with, Faiyaz’ music has built a cult following online since his emergence in 2016. In the three years since then, his star had continued to rise, seeing the singer collaborate with the likes of GoldLink and Juice WRLD. We caught him in London, where he spent his summer, to find out where he goes from here.

Describe your sound in one sentence.

I can’t.

Who are your artistic icons outside of music?

Keith Haring, Jacob Lawrence, Basquiat, John Singleton, Hype Williams, Tupac Shakur, River Phoenix, Robin Williams, Kerby-Jean Raymond, Bruce Lee, Quentin Tarantino, Chi Modu.

What’s your biggest passion outside of music?

My family. I was at a point where my work came first, like everybody is from age 17 to early 20-something. But my family is everything to me.

What do the next six months have in store for you?

New project. New visuals. New tour. New style. New ideas. I’m trying to read more & go out less.

You’ve built a very dedicated fanbase online – what’s your favourite DM you’ve ever received from a fan?

I don’t check my DMs too often, but I like to read how my music has impacted someone or got them through their day. It’s wild for me to think that my songs can do that. Like, they get it. That and the fan art. I love art, so seeing somebody draw me is an honour because I know the effort that goes into it. I really love seeing videos of women just vibing to my music. That might be my favourite.

Photography: Michelle Helena Janssen
Styling: Ade Udoma