Years go into the making of one’s debut album, which often strikes a chord among listeners but the follow-up album requires far more drive and dedication. Rap sensation KING knows it well as he moves — with ease — from Champagne Talk to New Life. The latest album has all the sonic vibes KING is known for, plus there’s a lot more to force him out of his comfort zone. He was at Apple BKC last week to kick off Diwali celebrations at Apple’s first offline store in India (Apple’s second offline store is Apple Saket in Delhi).

After his Today at Apple session, he found time to take on a few questions from t2 about New Life and share thoughts on all things Apple.

How does life change for KING musically and personally with your new album?

New Life has brought about a significant musical and personal transformation for me as an artiste. Musically, the album allowed me to explore new horizons, experiment with different sounds, and push my creative boundaries. Personally, it’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth. The experiences and emotions I’ve poured into this album have deeply impacted me, and I’ve evolved as a person throughout the process.

If you can talk about the making of the album and what’s the concept you had in mind?

The making of New Life was an incredible journey. The concept behind the album was to capture the essence of growth. It’s about embracing change, facing challenges, and coming out stronger.

Rapper KING at a 'Today at Apple' session at Apple BKC, Mumbai

International collaborations... you are known for it. What do Gucci Mane and Julia Michaels musically bring to the table and how do they change the sound and feel of the album?

Gucci Mane and Julia Michaels brought a unique and exciting dynamic to the album. Gucci Mane’s rap prowess and Julia Michaels’ emotive vocals added new layers to the sound and feel of the album. Their contributions brought a fresh perspective and a fusion of different genres, making New Life a versatile and captivating musical journey.

Today at Apple is a very special place for musicians because you get to interact with a focused crowd. How was the session at BKC and what were your favourite moments?

Today at Apple sessions are always special. The one at BKC was no different. Interacting with a focused and engaged audience is incredibly inspiring. My favourite moments included sharing the stories behind my art, seeing the audience’s reactions, and witnessing the genuine connection that music can create.

You constantly interact with young people — like at Today at Apple — and maybe learn what they are talking about. How important is it for you to listen to fans but at the same time follow your personal music journey without giving into every demand?

Interacting with young people is essential to staying connected with the pulse of the audience. While I value fan input and feedback, it’s also crucial to maintain my artistic integrity and follow my own creative path. Striking the right balance between listening to fans and staying true to my personal musical journey is something I take seriously.

Lately, many are discovering the magic of Spatial Audio on Apple Music. What does Spatial Audio mean to you and how has it changed the way post-production works?

Spatial Audio on Apple Music has been a game-changer. It adds a new dimension to the listening experience, making it more immersive and engaging. Post-production work has become even more exciting as it allows us to create music that can truly surround and envelop the listener, enhancing the overall impact of the song.

What are the Apple devices and apps that you constantly use to get music recorded? What’s your workflow like with the different devices?

From using the Notes app to write lyrics, or even the Recorder app on my iPhone for recording quick melodies, Apple’s ecosystem offers me with a seamless workflow that keeps my creativity flowing.

Let’s talk about Apple BKC. What do you like most about it?

Apple BKC is a serene and fantastic space. What I like most is the perfect blend of technology and creativity it offers. It’s a place where artists can come together to share their craft, inspire others, and connect with the audience in a unique and intimate setting.

The festive season is rolling out across the country. How are you gearing up for it in terms of concerts?

I’m gearing up for my New Life India Tour, which spans 10 cities and kicks off in Bengaluru on October 28. Performing live is where I truly come alive, and there’s nothing quite like the energy and connection with the audience. I can’t wait to celebrate the festivities with my fans, sharing the joy of music and creating memorable experiences together.