KWN: East London's R&B Trailblazer Making Waves

Devisadaria Duchine-Khauli

14 April 2025

KWN: East London's R&B Trailblazer Making Waves

KWN (pronounced "kay-wuhn"), whose real name is listed as Khy Wilson, is a rising British R&B artist from Walthamstow, East London. Known for her androgynous style and emotionally charged music, KWN has been gaining recognition for her unique blend of R&B, garage, house, pop, and rock influences.

Worst Behavior by KWN featuring Kehlani

How I Discovered KWN

I was pulling up to my brother’s home when I first heard KWN’s “Worst Behavior” on the radio. The moment the song started, I was hooked, so much so that I stayed in the car until it finished. Its smooth, emotionally charged vibe instantly earned a place on my work week playlist and eventually landed on my “Tops” list.

That one track sparked a deep curiosity about the artist behind it. I began searching for more music by KWN and soon discovered Eyes Wide Open, which quickly became another favorite. Then I found her 2022 album, episode wn (Soundcloud link below), where the soulful, introspective track “nobody” became my favorite from the album.

KWN’s sound blends vulnerability, vocal precision, and East London grit, placing her at the forefront of a new wave in British R&B.

Her collaboration with American, Oakland, California born singer Kehlani on the remix of "Worst Behavior" has been a significant milestone in her career. The track showcases KWN's sultry vocals alongside Kehlani's smooth delivery, creating a captivating R&B experience. Additionally, KWN featured on Kehlani's mixtape "While We Wait 2" with the track "Clothes Off," further solidifying their musical partnership.

KWN's live performances have also garnered attention, notably her appearance during Kehlani's "Crash World Tour" at The O2 Arena in London. Their duet on "Clothes Off" was highlighted as a standout moment of the show.

For those exploring new R&B talents, KWN's music offers a fresh and authentic perspective, reflecting her East London roots and diverse musical influences.

Works Cited

Dazed. (2023, October 4). KWN is the rising artist writing relatable tracks about toxic exes. Dazed Digital. https://www.dazeddigital.com/music/article/56487/1/kwn-the-rising-artist-writing-relatable-tracks-about-toxic-exes

New Wave Magazine. (2024, January 31). KWN teams up with Kehlani for “Worst Behaviour” remix + steamy London-set visual. https://www.newwavemagazine.com/single-post/kwn-teams-up-with-kehlani-for-worst-behaviour-remix-steamy-london-set-visual

The Guardian. (2025, February 1). Kehlani review – emotional honesty and R&B beats dazzle London crowd. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/feb/01/kehlani-review-o2-london-live-review-after-hours-crash-next-2-u

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