WSTRN Facts: 8 Things You Need To Know About The 'In2' Collective
Here's everything you need to know about WSTRN, a trio of fast-rising stars on London's urban music scene.
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1. Get to know WSTRN.
No doubt you've not been able to get WSTRN's brand new track 'In2' out of your head. But what do you know about the group behind the music?
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2. Who are they?
WSTRN are a London-based rap/R&B collective comprised of Akelle Charles, Haile, and Louis Rei. They formed and signed to Atlantic in 2015, in that short time they have already made an impressive splash on the UK urban music scene. Picture: Getty
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3. Where does the name "WSTRN" come from?
All three of the artists are natives of West London. So, in honour of their hometown, they agreed on the name “WSTRN”, but the name also means what it sounds like; 'West's Turn' i.e, it's West London's turn for success. Picture: Getty
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4. How did WSTRN come about?
Charles, Rei and Haile were all independent artists before coming together to form a collective. After some initial hesitation about forming a group, the three artists agreed to a studio session together. The natural and complimentary chemistry between the three musicians was immediately apparent, and the rest is history! Picture: Instagram
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5. They're music is deeply inspired by some of Hip Hop's greats.
Between the three of them; Rei, Charles and Haile have a highly diverse collection of influences. From Lauren Hill, Nas, J Cole all the way to Evelyn King and Marvin Gaye, the differences between the three musicians background and style is what makes WSTRN such an exciting new talent. Picture: Instagram
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6. Music really runs in the WSTRN family!
Group members Akelle Charles and Haile are cousins. In addition to this, Charles’ brother is the R&B star, Angel. Their dads even played in the same reggae band once upon a time! Picture: Instagram
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7. Who's looking after this talented trio?
Co-managed by talent scout and video director Morgan Keyz alongside talent-management veteran Jonathan Shalit, this group has a wealth of experience to draw on to help them navigate the difficult terrain of the UK urban music scene. Picture: Instagram
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8. 'In2' came as a result of WSTRN's first studio session together.
WSTRN's infectious new song 'In2', was the result of the musicians first studio session together. The song was, as Louis Rei puts it, meeting and “making a vibe” together. Prior to this, all three artists had aspirations of a solo musical career, but have since decided that they are better as a trio. Picture: Instagram
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9. WSTRN are going to be big.
They’ve already played an awards show! Despite the collective being pretty new on the scene, WSTRN have already been seen at some big events. Their set at the Rated Awards was a great success and excellent promotion for the group. Picture: Instagram