Houston-based artist Uzisky has never been one to fit neatly into a box, which is exactly how I usually like my musicians! Her latest release, Hit Different, has pushed her sound into compelling new territory, by blending a melodic alt-r&b flow with rock guitar textures to create a cinematic sense of mood. On Hit Different, Usizky proves that she has real staying power, making me eager to discuss her creative vision and the story behind the track – read on to find out more!
By Jane Howkins
How has your 2026 been so far? Did you have a good summer?
2026 has been a year of growth, re-discovery, and finding my way back to myself creatively. I’ve been balancing work, life and music, while learning to take my art seriously without putting too much pressure on myself. My summer was productive and releasing Hit Different was a big moment for me. After years of self-doubt and fear, putting my music out again feels like I’m finally giving myself permission to be the artist I’ve always wanted to be.
You recently released the single Hit Different. What can you tell us about the track, and what does the title refer to?
is about being honest with someone and saying, “I want you, and if you want me too, let’s do this.” It’s about knowing what love can look like with someone because you’ve experienced it with them, and being willing to explore that again. It’s more than missing an ex or reminiscing about the past; it’s recognizing what you’ve shared with someone and knowing you still want it. The title speaks to how certain people make you feel in a way that’s difficult to replicate. Sonically, I wanted the track to feel intimate, sensual and a little like a late-night confession.
Hit Different contains a French bridge. Can you tell us more about that and why you decided to include another language? Do you speak French yourself?
The bridge features French vocalist Soraya Archimbaud. I’m part Ivorian, so exploring French felt right to me. I wanted to bring that cultural connection into the music in a way that felt natural rather than forced. Soraya’s voice adds another layer of intimacy to the track, and I love how the French section complements the emotion of the song. I don’t speak French fluently, but I appreciate the language and wanted to explore that side of my heritage through music.
Do you have any more singles planned for release soon?
Yes! I have more music coming. I’ve been working on Chaotic Mind, Gimme Love and other records that explore different sides of me. With Chaotic Mind, I wanted to capture what it’s like having a mind that never seems to quiet down, while Gimme Love explores a different emotional space. I’m building my releases intentionally, giving each song its own moment rather than dropping everything at once. There’s more to come, and I’m excited to share it.
I’m always working on something! I’m continuing to explore different sounds and sides of myself as an artist. I want to be intentional about what I release and give each song room to breathe, rather than rushing to put music out just for the sake of it. For now, I’m enjoying sharing Hit Different with the world while working on what’s next.
5. Are there plans to release a full-length album or EP in the near future?
I’m developing a project called Three of a Kind, Part I, built around three moods, three sounds and one truth. I’m a singer, rapper and producer, and I want the project to reflect the different sides of me without forcing them into one box. The idea is to let those sides coexist and show people more of who I am as an artist. For me, it’s about making music without feeling like I have to choose just one version of myself.
The idea is to release Chaotic Mind, Hit Different and Gimme Love as individual singles, roughly two months apart, before bringing them together as a body of work. Each song represents a different side of me, and together they offer a more complete picture of who I am as an artist. I’m a singer, rapper and producer, and I want the music to reflect that range without forcing myself into one sound or identity.
What have you been listening to recently that you can recommend? Who are your main influences?
My influences are pretty varied. Timbaland, Missy Elliott and Kanye West have influenced me a lot, especially in how they approach production, experimentation and pushing musical boundaries. I’ve also been influenced by artists like Wizkid, Banky W and 2Baba, as well as Stromae. I appreciate artists who have their own identity and aren’t afraid to experiment. As a producer myself, I’m drawn to the details of how music is built, but as an artist, I’m equally interested in the emotion behind it. I take inspiration from different places, and I want my music to reflect that freedom.
You’re based in Houston. What’s the local music scene like?
Houston has such a rich musical history, particularly in hip-hop, and there’s a strong sense of individuality in its sound. I’m still finding my place in the local scene as an independent artist, building my audience and creating opportunities for myself. Being Houston-based and Nigerian- and Ivorian-rooted also means I draw from different cultural influences. I’m excited about connecting with other creatives and finding listeners who connect with my music, wherever they are.
Do you have any side projects or other bands on the go?
Music is my main focus, but my creativity goes beyond recording songs. I create my own photography, cover art and music videos, so I’m involved in shaping the visual world around my music too. I also balance all of this with my day job, which can be a lot! Being independent means wearing different hats, but I enjoy having that creative control and being able to bring my ideas to life.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up this year or next?
I’m looking forward to releasing more music, developing Three of a Kind, Part I, and growing my audience. I also want to collaborate with more creatives and explore new ways of bringing my music to life visually and sonically. This chapter is really about trusting myself, staying consistent and continuing to create – even when things don’t happen as quickly as I’d like. There’s still so much I want to do, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Any last words for the fans?
Thank you to everyone who’s listened to my music, shared it or encouraged me along the way. Being an independent artist can sometimes feel like you’re putting your work into the world and hoping it finds the right people, so every bit of support means something to me. If you’re just discovering me, I’m Uzisky, and I make music that allows me to explore different sides of myself without choosing just one. My single Hit Different is out now, so please give it a listen and share it with someone who might connect with it. You can find my music through the link in my bio.
Social media: Facebook, Spotify, Soundcloud, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok