kenzo jae Signs to EMI North Partner Launchpad+ and Shares New Single ‘softly’

Rising Bradford-born rap talent kenzo jae has announced his signing to EMI North Records’ label partner Launchpad+ and unveiled his latest single, ‘softly’. The release follows a standout 2025, including a performance at Bradford’s opening ceremony and an appearance at the BBC Contains Strong Language festival.

Forged from Persian, Kittician, and British heritage, kenzo’s music fuses northern grit with imaginative storytelling. ‘softly’ is a meditation on betrayal and personal growth, pairing jangly, nonchalant guitar and buoyant rhythms with introspective, sharply observed lyrics. The track is accompanied by a cinematic visualiser, featuring kenzo embodying his alter egos Pinkman and SLOTH, exploring themes of identity, transformation, and creative rebirth.

On the track, kenzo says: “It’s more of a confession than a flex… I’m finally letting go of things I’ve carried for years.”

Fans can catch him at Live At Leeds in the City, as well as upcoming UK headline shows and festival appearances next year.

Listen to ‘softly’ now via Launchpad+ / EMI North.