If you haven’t heard the name OKay The Duo yet, you’re about to. The sibling duo, UK-born, Australia-raised, and now stomping through the streets of London with infectious energy, are coming in hot with their latest single ‘What Do You Reckon’, a riotous, cheeky, and unapologetically bold track that marks the beginning of their so-called Villain Era.
Having already made waves with their previous release ‘BIG FISH LIL FISH’, and racking up over a million streams in the process, the pair are back sharper than ever, flipping adversity into art, and channelling the chaos of starting over into a banger filled with humour, attitude, and a lyrical middle finger to anyone who doubted them. Shot in the very streets of Peckham that inspired the track, the accompanying video (directed by Blue Boredom) is as raw and audacious as the music itself.
With punchy rhymes, undeniable chemistry, and an origin story built on resilience and reinvention, OKay The Duo are serious contenders in the UK hip-hop space with global ambitions. We caught up with the duo’s Kayla Oxley to talk about their creative rebirth, and why being outsiders turned out to be their greatest strength.
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Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you got started in music?
I’ve always loved singing. I used to do lessons and all that when I was younger. But I really started making my own music when I was 14. My brother took me to the studio for the first time on my birthday and that day honestly changed everything for me. I fell in love with it straight away and that’s where it all began.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, both past and present?
When I was younger I was obsessed with Rihanna. She’s always been one of my biggest inspirations. I also loved Ariana Grande for her vocals. Lately I’ve been more inspired by girls like Ice Spice and other female rappers cause that’s more the direction I’ve been going in now. I love how confident they are and how they just do their thing.
Are there any specific artists or bands that have had a significant impact on your music style or approach?
Not really. I don’t think I’ve ever tried to copy anyone’s sound. I just make what feels natural to me. I get inspired by a lot of artists cause there’s so many talented people out there but I never go in thinking I want to sound like someone.
Could you share any memorable moments or experiences that have shaped your musical journey so far?
A big one for me was when we dropped Big Fish Little Fish last year. That song really helped me figure out who I am as an artist. It was the first time everything clicked. The sound, the energy, how people reacted to it. It made me realise this is what I want to do.
How do you express your personal experiences and identity through your music?
Honestly I just have fun with it. Sometimes the silliest stuff will come to my mind and I’ll write it down. Music for me isn’t about overthinking, it’s about feeling good and having fun with whatever’s going on in my life. I like to mix in things my fans can relate to or laugh at too, cause I want it to feel real and entertaining at the same time.
Have you faced any challenges or obstacles as a female musician, and if so, how have you overcome them?
Yeah for sure. I think sometimes people don’t take you as seriously when you’re a girl in music, especially when you’re young or doing it on your own. You’ve got to prove yourself a bit more. I’ve learned to stand my ground and not let people walk over me. Once they see how much work you put in, they start respecting you.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music?
I want my music to make girls feel confident and strong. A lot of my songs call guys out for their nonsense but in a fun way. It’s that bad bitch energy. I want people to listen and feel like they can be whoever they want and not care what anyone thinks.
Can you talk about your creative process and how you go about writing and producing your music?
Most of the time it’s just me and my brother Oxlee. We’ve been making music together for years. He produces most of the beats and we just write together in the studio. Sometimes we work with friends but it’s mainly just us. We usually go in with no plan and just vibe until something sticks.
How do you hope your music will resonate with your audience, especially with other aspiring female musicians?
I hope it makes people feel like they can be themselves and go after what they want. I want girls to know they can do things their own way. You don’t need to fit in or play it safe. If my music can make someone feel confident or inspired to chase their dreams, that means everything to me.
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Listen to OKay The Duo’s new single ‘What Do You Reckon’ below.