In the ever-evolving landscape of music and art, NEO 10Y stands out as a beacon of innovation and inspiration. As a non-binary multi-disciplinary recording artist, NEO 10Y has carved a unique path, blending activism, fashion, and music into a cohesive and impactful narrative. Their journey from a classically trained musician to a revolutionary artist has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Early Life and Education of NEO 10Y
Born and raised in London, NEO 10Y, known off-stage as Nik Thakkar, developed a passion for music early in life. Classically trained in piano and vocals, NEO 10Y’s foundation in music was solidified through rigorous practice and dedication. This early training would later serve as the bedrock for their eclectic and genre-defying sound.
Pursuing higher education, NEO 10Y studied Law and French at Cardiff University. This academic background provided them with a broader perspective on the world, which would later influence their music and activism.
Entry into Fashion and Art
In 2013, a pivotal moment occurred when NEO 10Y was scouted by the iconic Jean-Paul Gaultier in Paris. This opportunity led to their involvement in Gaultier’s AW13-14 digital campaign.
This marked the beginning of NEO’s foray into the fashion world, where they quickly made a name for themselves. Collaborations with luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Tom Ford soon followed, showcasing NEO 10Y’s versatility and artistic vision.
Ada + Nik: Redefining Fashion
Teaming up with designer Ada Zanditon, NEO co-created Ada + Nik, a luxury non-binary clothing line. The line was featured in London Collections for five consecutive seasons, earning acclaim for its dark, avant-garde aesthetic.
The duo’s innovative designs were showcased at both London and New York Fashion Weeks, garnering praise from critics and celebrities alike. The collaboration with will.i.am to create the world’s first camera-enabled biker jacket epitomized their forward-thinking approach to fashion.
The Birth of NEO 10Y
In 2016, NEO emerged as a solo artist, adopting a name that symbolizes both neoteny and the significance of the number 10 as a symbol of rebirth and revolution. Their debut track, Amerikkka, released anonymously, set the tone for a career characterized by bold statements and boundary-pushing art.
Controversy and Activism
NEO’s work often blurs the line between art and activism. The release of the music video “NEO 10Y vs. NIHIL: The Kid That Killed Trump” in 2016 exemplified this blend.
The provocative video, which included live sex and the burning of a mask of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, sparked controversy and led to hate mail and FBI reports. Despite the backlash, NEO 10Y remained undeterred, using their platform to promote lyrical political activism.
Musical Evolution and Philosophy
NEO 10Y’s music is a reflection of their philosophical beliefs and commitment to social change. The dual release of Dopamine and Poems To Fuck To in 2018, accompanied by interconnected videos, highlighted the artist’s vision for humanity’s urgent need to evolve and save the planet. Their 2019 release, Stan Yourself, continued this trend, with a powerful music video that captivated audiences and critics alike.
Recent Works and Impact
The year 2020 saw the release of four singles: ILY, Y, Crackhead Angel, and Unrelatable Autosexual. These tracks received acclaim from notable platforms such as Billboard, COLORS, and Paper, each one weaving a common thread of love energy, universal introspection, and self-realization. NEO 10Y’s message of love as a philosophy of non-violence was further emphasized with the release of Shortcut To World Peace on January 1, 2021.
In 2022, NEO 10Y released Spiritual Viagra, a song and video based on their own experience of love at first sight. This personal yet universal theme resonated deeply with fans, further solidifying NEO 10Y’s place as a voice of a new, inclusive spiritual revolution.
Musical Style and Influences
NEO 10Y’s sound is a unique blend of electronic aggression and introspective lyricism. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of artists, including Grace Jones, Elliott Smith, Bob Marley, and Zaha Hadid, NEO 10Y has crafted a musical style that is both innovative and deeply personal. They also cite influences from iconic figures such as Britney Spears, Kurt Cobain, Aaliyah, and 2Pac, merging these diverse elements into a cohesive artistic vision.
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