Is 2026 going to be Danny K’s year? It surely seems so. Hailing from Manchester, the British singer-songwriter has wasted no time, promptly releasing his long-awaited debut single ‘Just The Way I Like’ last Friday, a charming and relatable pop nugget steeped in teenage introspection and nostalgic coming-of-age theming. The project has been bubbling under the surface for quite some time, no doubt inspired by Manchester’s rich creative scene. Emerging from a musical family, Danny K possess all the right cards to make a difference in an overtly chaotic and uniform artistic landscape.
‘Just The Way I Like’ is the perfect example of that. As we see it, it’s the perfect balance of mainstream melodies with hidden hints of indie extravaganza and eclectic elegance. While the record itself is approachable and familiar, Danny K’s vocals and lyrical attitude are able to delve deeper, deviating from the beaten path into soulful territories and crooner-like nostalgia. That’s what keeps ‘Just The Way I Like’ fresh and relevant, and utterly modern. From a sonic standpoint, the record makes the most of an indie-centred, chilled arrangement, with real drums and gentle guitars providing a fitting counterpoint to Danny K’s expansive, hopeful vocal tone.
Mentioning Beabadoobee and Dayglow as some of his biggest influences, the talented Englishman is certainly well tapped into contemporary culture. Yet, we are confident that he’s going to carve out his own musical space rather soon, a place that will likely feel warm and introspective, but also lush and dreamy.
Recommended! ‘Just The Way I Like’ is out now everywhere: