Otta

Otta is a Finnish-British singer-songwriter who grew up in South London. She developed an early interest in music, beginning drum lessons at the age of seven with aspirations of becoming a professional drummer. During her teenage years, Otta expanded her musical scope, drawing inspiration from acoustic guitar music and hip-hop artists like Kanye West. This period led her to begin writing her own songs. At 16, she gained admission to the Brit School, where she was introduced to jazz and electronic production techniques, elements that significantly shaped her artistic sound today.

Her career progressed with the release of her debut EP, “After It All Blew Over,” in January 2020. This initial work established Otta’s sound, characterized by its smoky and soulful qualities. Later in 2020, she released a second EP, “Songbook,” which showcased a more playful and experimental musical style. The “Songbook” EP featured tracks with layered vocals and electronic textures, drawing comparisons to early Björk and contemporary acts. Much of her material, including “Songbook,” is created in her home studio, described as a “cupboard-under-the-stairs-meets-shed,” highlighting her hands-on approach to production.

A significant turning point in Otta’s career occurred when producer Kwes, known for his work with artists such as Solange and Loyle Corner, discovered her music on SoundCloud. Kwes subsequently signed Otta to his label, Bokkle. This collaboration has further developed her distinct sound, which integrates electronic, jazz, ambient, future-pop, and R&B elements. Otta’s work is notable for her contributions to writing, singing, and production, demonstrating her comprehensive musical capabilities.