i-Files: Komali Scott-Jones
“If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.”
COVID-19 has dominated our screens and consumed our thoughts since the beginning of the year, and whilst the UK’s current lockdown has been slightly relaxed following an update from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, quarantine is slowly being lifted globally and normalcy being restored. Whilst we’ve all adjusted to a new state of “normal”, these new rules mean that previously non-essential outings like recreationally going to the park, unlimited exercise, and meeting one other person from a different household are now allowed, with social distancing measures still to be adhered to.
In our latest series of i-FIles, we’ve caught up with creators, from stylists, photographers to illustrators as we wanted to get an idea of what the creative community is doing during lockdown. Today, we caught up with Komali Scott-Jones – A&R at Parlophone Records to find out what life has looked like for her during lockdown. Read the feature below…
EQ: Hey Komali, what have you been doing to stay busy right now?
KSJ: I’m very grateful to be able to work from home during this crazy time, so my days have been as busy – if not busier than usual. The Zoom calls are the worst thing about lockdown! It’s been hectic but just without the fun stuff to break it up…no gigs, no studio time, no events, which has been such a tough adjustment for me!
EQ: What are the top three tracks on your playlist at the moment? Anything in particular you can’t take of repeat?
KSJ: Mnelia – “Lovecrimes” because I’m a Mnelia stan. Also listen to her single “Say Yeah” and thank me later.
YouTube/MNELIA
Ramz – “Brixton to Oxford Circus”, his flow is silly on it!
Idpizzle – “Dior (Remix)” has become an unofficial lockdown anthem that I can’t wait to hear when I’m back in the dance!
EQ: What would you recommend we all tune into on Netflix/Amazon Prime?
KSJ: I’m a Netflix queen on a normal day so I’ve been in overdrive in lockdown. I’d recommend ‘Restaurants On The Edge’ for a feel-good factor, and if you like travel, food, and interiors.
‘Hip Hop Evolution’ is a super-inspiring watch for music lovers. It’s amazing to see how far the genre has come, and it makes me think about how we can emulate their success in the UK music industry.
‘Three Identical Strangers’ is an incredible documentary and ‘LA 92’ is one of the best-shot documentaries I’ve ever seen. I’ve got too many recommendations, so hit me up for some when you’re bored!
Instagram/@komali_krldn
“It’s been such an intense time for us all and I think it’s important to give yourself a breather and be kind to yourself.”
– KOMALI SCOTT-JONES
EQ: With so much content out there right now across socials, is there anything that has stood out to you that you can share?
KSJ: I have truly adored watching the online radio platform ‘No Signal’ come into its own in the last month or so. It has captured the energy and excitement of pirate radio days while unapologetically championing black music culture in the most groundbreaking way. Their 10v10 gameshow has put a smile on my face through some tough days and they’ve got so much more sick content to come! It’s particularly amazing to see a lot of my friends and peers, who I’ve watched work tirelessly, creating and being part of a platform to be their authentic selves from presenters, to DJs and bloggers who are so pivotal to our culture. It’s literally just the beginning for them!
YouTube/NO SIGNAL
EQ: Do you have a lockdown self-care routine? And if so what does it look like?
KSJ: I’m ashamed to say I’m hopeless at routines of any kind, but I’m normally running around town and I’ve really missed that part of life. I usually use commuting time to zone out so I’ve been trying to sit in my garden or go for a walk without my phone and try to clear my mind. It’s been such an intense time for us all and I think it’s important to give yourself a breather and be kind to yourself.
EQ: What’s a positive mantra that’s getting you through this time?
KSJ: “If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry”, my grandmother always said this to me growing up. It’s been a really challenging time for me on a personal level and I’ve found it helpful to try and keep myself upbeat despite everything; otherwise, it can be so all-consuming.
EQ: With all the spare time, how are you tapping into your creativity?
KSJ: I’ve been taking this time to work on upcoming collections, shoots and plans for my clothing brand King’s Ransom London with my business partner Meghan, which has been refreshing. I’ve also enjoyed having more time to think more creatively for my artists and unorthodox ideas when trying to win new deals.
EQ: First place you’ll head to when everyone comes out of isolation?
KSJ: The club!
EQ: What can we look forward to seeing from you later in the year? Any exciting projects we should be looking out for?
KSJ: Keep an eye out for new products and content from King’s Ransom and in the meantime, shop our current collection! I’m also planning to expand on the women in music initiative The Debrief that launched late last year. Stay locked!
Keep up with Komali, King’s Ransom & The Debrief on socials:
For advice or information on the COVID-19 virus, we recommend that you thoroughly read the NHS’s Corona Virus Advice page.
If you or anyone you know is feeling unwell and suspects you may have been in contact with an infected individual, then please (as instructed) self-isolate immediately, stay away from vulnerable persons, and call your local 111 service for further advice.
Please remember to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, think about others, and stay safe during this period! ❤️
Love, Team EQUATE.