Nagaland-based singer-songwriter TK Lemtur, who now stays in New Delhi, is basking in the glory of his recently concluded Japan tour, The New Era Tour, and his excitement is still quite evident as he speaks. Creating music across soul, R&B, rap, and pop, with storytelling at the heart of it, we speak with the artiste in detail about his journey. Excerpts:
Tell us about The New Era Tour.
The Japan tour was a really special and eye-opening experience for me. It was my first time performing there, and being able to take my music to a completely different culture felt exciting and humbling. What stood out the most was how people connected with the music, even when they didn’t fully understand the language.
I enjoyed experimenting with my set as well. I learned the Japanese song Stay With Me by Miki Matsubara and created a mashup with Sugababes’ Overload, which the audience responded to really well. I even received compliments on how well my Japanese sounded in the song, though I’m pretty sure they were just being kind.
There were also some spontaneous moments. In Osaka, a couple came up to me and told me my voice was versatile and asked me to cover a few songs. That led to an impromptu performance, which turned into a really fun and memorable interaction.
Each city had its own vibe. My first show in Asagaya was really special. Even though the audience didn’t fully understand the lyrics, they were grooving to the music, which reminded me how universal music can be.
Another highlight was doing two shows in one day, travelling from Koenji to Osaka within just a few hours—it was intense, but incredibly exciting.
I performed my unreleased track Arung, throughout the tour because it represents where I come from. It became a fun way to connect with the audience. Especially during a show in Shibuya, where I playfully used the song to “prove ” I’m from India.
More than anything, what I’ll take away from this tour is the connection. Meeting people from Japan and around the world, and seeing them enjoy my original music, is something I’ll always cherish.
What drew you to music?
Music has always been a constant in my life. I started learning piano when I was around three, joined a choir at nine, and gradually began performing at church, school, and college. Over time, it became a part of who I am. The church played a big role in encouraging me to step forward and share my musical abilities. It gave me my first real platform and confidence as a performer. From there, I just kept growing, and now I’m not only making and performing music but also teaching it.
What have been your biggest inspirations?
My early exposure was rooted in church music, soul, and choir arrangements, which I still deeply connect with. Growing up in the ’90s, I was also influenced by artistes like Blue and Backstreet Boys, along with powerhouse vocalists like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. I also love timeless acts like ABBA, Bee Gees, and Journey.
I listen to a wide range of genres: pop, rap, K-pop, R&B, neo-soul, etc., and because of that, I don’t limit myself to one specific influence. For me, it’s about taking elements from different styles and artistes, and shaping them into something that feels true to my own sound.
You are also a fashion connoisseur. While it apparently looks very international, what is your fashion style like, really?
Honestly, I don’t really see myself as a very fashionable person. I’m more drawn to clean, minimal aesthetics in my everyday style. However, when it comes to performances, I like to be more expressive. Since I usually style myself for shoots, I make sure my outfits align with the theme while still keeping a sense of simplicity.
For my latest single, Energy, for example, I had a lot of fun creating looks around a futuristic, cyberpunk, intergalactic theme. I enjoy the DIY process, so I spent weeks putting the outfits together in my apartment. It was exhausting, but definitely worth it.
What are you usually doing when you are not singing?
I’m usually always singing, but when I’m not working with clients or performing, I’m often writing songs or making beats. Outside of music, I spend time writing research papers, reading scientific studies and trends, and attending conferences. I also enjoy painting, baking, and trying my hand at carpentry, basically anything that lets me work with my hands. And, of course, trying not to skip the gym.
What are your upcoming shows, projects, or releases?