MNEK discusses songwriting success, self-doubt and going solo

Musician and songwriter MNEK, born Uzoechi Osisioma Emenike, has spoken about writing hit songs for other artists, battling self-doubt, and the difficulties of building his own solo career, according to an interview with The Guardian.

MNEK has written material for major artists including Beyoncé and has received two Grammy nominations for his work, but the report notes that comparable success as a solo artist has so far eluded him.

A new chapter

The interview, conducted in a south-east London warehouse, finds MNEK returning with a new album that the report describes as centering queer joy. According to The Guardian, he says he is now finally ready to enjoy his own career and success.

The report touches on the particular challenges MNEK has faced as a Black, gay, and larger-bodied artist navigating the music industry's expectations, in his own words describing the difficulty of that position within the industry.

Further details of the new album, including its title, release date and specific songs, were not included in the available report. The interview offers insight into MNEK's reflections on his career as both a sought-after songwriter and an artist building his own path.