Meet The Artist: Interview with House of EL
Photography by @bonnieophelia
Over the years, House of EL (a.k.a Kieron McIntosh) has successfully progressed his musicality by venturing into different avenues of creation such as singing, production and songwriting. He quickly established his reputation and credibility by working with famous artists such as Plan B, Paloma Faith and Chase and Status before emerging with his own music releases. The Northampton-based artist draws influence from a wide spread of artists including, Massive Attack, Gorillaz, Joy Division, Bootsy Collins, Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis to name a few…
House of EL is an artist who doesn’t really fall under any particular genre due to his versatility and originality; he is constantly breaking boundaries with his eclectic blend of genres and styles. Kieran’s latest project ‘BOOK OF EL’ drops on his own label WUNDERKIND and is a taste of what’s to come from this exciting artist whose undeniable artistry is set to dominate 2022. We had the incredible opportunity to catch up and chat with House of EL (a.k.a Kieron McIntosh) about his creative journey, new project ‘BOOK OF EL’, biggest musical inspirations and what’s to come in the future. Here is what came of the discussion:
Introduce yourself to those that don’t know?
House of EL: Hello, I’m Kieron McIntosh and I create and perform music under the moniker ‘House of EL’. I am slowly working towards being the greatest of all time. Watch this space!
What got you into making music? When did it all begin?
House of EL: I started off playing in church, which led to playing jazz and being in the local bands around Northants (where I’m from). I got hooked and after studying for a bit I moved to London and got stuck in with the scene writing and going to jam sessions.
What inspired you to create and record your new mixtape ‘BOOK OF EL’?
House of EL: This project is really the artistic culmination of my ultimate ideal of creating music that documents and touches the soul of people. Each song talks about the human process, I hope it comes across and people are able to make their own.
How would you describe ‘BOOK OF EL’ in 1 sentence?
House of EL: Message…
What does your typical music-making process entail?
House of EL: I make a load of music dead quick, stick hooks on it and then sit on these folders for ages until I have a message or purpose that I want to get across. It’s a fast but slow process - not to mention getting musicians in for the bits I don’t want to play, and then send mix and master if needed
What’s your biggest musical achievement to date?
House of EL: I would probably say finishing this project, it has been a labour of love over the past 5 years. I hate stopping to celebrate ever but I had a little sip of wine - then got back to work!! haha
Photography by @bonnieophelia
If you could collab with any UK artist, who would it be and why?
House of EL: Skepta, Kano or Giggs. They are iconic and driven artists. Been a fan of Kano & Skepta since I was a kid - I actually wrote and produced a song for Kano so hopefully, we can reconnect. The UK is currently quietly going through a renaissance if you scrape through all the topline crap that there are so many scenes of creatives doing real work. It’s like the 70’s/80’s!
What’s your advice for people who are looking to get into music?
House of EL: Don’t do it unless you really love it, take the long road, embrace the pain. It might not work out every time or immediately but the journey is the goal enjoy the journey.
Who are your top 5 musicians of all time?
House of EL: Changes all the time but: Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Jay Z, Bob Dylan, Sam Cooke. - I don’t think any explanation is needed there, but they are all icons and go out on their shield creatively… I think that’s what people always remember about artists, very rarely the crazy press stories etc… if I could add more I would though!
What keeps you motivated and driven when you are feeling uninspired?
House of EL: I’m super blessed to live in a country with no war, and healthcare system schools etc.. if you’re ever uninspired that always does it for me. Also, I am on a mission, the more mission-driven you are the longer you can last - this isn’t a get rich quick or fame thing for me.
What’s next for you as an artist?
House of EL: I’m gonna put hella music out and do shows! I’m on one this year!
Where can people find you? (Socials etc…)
House of EL: @iamhouseofel drop me a DM or comment if you wanna work!
Photography by @bonnieophelia
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