Whether you’ve heard him dropping philosophical knowledge in the Student Center, talked to him in the freshmen dorms as an RA or saw him studying an insanely thick Math textbook, Kayden Wong is one of those constant friendly faces on Hofstra’s campus that often come few and far between. But this senior has hidden talents beyond measure and goals to match.
What’s your major/minor?
Biology/Secondary Science Education
Why did you choose this major/minor?
Science and Math have always been my favorite subjects growing up. I originally wanted to be a veterinarian, but it turns out I’m allergic to almost everything. Somewhere down the line I decided that I wanted to help people so I decided to pursue medicine instead, which in turn has led me to education, where I can hopefully help people to help others.
What are you involved with on campus?
I’m currently a Resident Assistant and a member of Hofstra Gospel Ensemble and Hofstra’s only Hip-Hop Club on campus group, 6th Element.
Tell us about your music career. When did you starting recording music and performing?
My “music career” began way before I would have considered it as such. Growing up I spent a lot of time next door in my 2nd cousin’s studio, who I sometimes refer to as my uncle. Those experiences are what really made me love making music. My older brother also played a huge role as well. Looking up to him, since he rapped, it didn’t take me too long to pick up a pen and pad, and still I kept my rapping under wraps for a long time and focused on production.
I started making beats on my PlayStation, using MTV Music Generator, and then I got my hands on FL Studio and more studio equipment. I used the piano lessons that I had received to really push my production and working with an artist by the name of Army I really got a lot of practice with my production and engineering. I always thought [music], but my cousin, once again, put the bug in my ear that I didn’t just have to be the producer, but I could be the artist as well. And that’s just what I did.
What sort of music and art inspires you?
The majority of the music that I listen to is Hip-Hop and Reggae, so I would say that’s what inspires me. Both great hip-hop, and even the not so great, wack songs, inspire me to make good music.
In terms of other art forms, I love the urban dance scene and I really appreciate a nice painting or drawing. Great visuals and graphics usually get my attention and make me wish I practiced more of that art.
What’s your mindset before, during and after a show?
Honestly, I tell myself not to mess up. I feel like the worst thing I can do is forget my words, since my style is so heavily based on lyrics. I also spend a bit of time figuring out how I’m going to get the audience participating and all my transitions between pieces. While I’m on stage I sort of go on autopilot. Not much thinking about lyrics is happening at this point. I’m usually seeing where in the crowd I’m getting the greatest reaction. After the show I’m thinking about what I could have done better, whether I reviewing footage or not.
How do you juggle two opposite things in your life; working to become a professional artist and working towards your degree?
I’ve just learned to set aside time for both. Obviously when there is an important assignment or test I put my music to the side. Hopefully they don’t always have to be “opposite.” On YouTube there are a bunch of science songs and things of that nature. I’m definitely trying to make at least one.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since coming to Hofstra?
I would say my biggest accomplishment since being at Hofstra has been dropping my first body of work, entitled iTuNe$. The music itself and my overall artistry since then is a great accomplishment in my eyes as well.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
Well it all depends on where my music takes me. After graduation, I’ll definitely be able to focus more energy to the music but I’ll definitely be teaching and running after school activities.
How can people find your music?
Everything that you need to know/hear is on my website, WongTunes.com