After a career spanning 15 years, three albums and hits like "On Our Knees", Brussels producer and music artist Konoba has announced that he is going on hiatus, perhaps permanently, as he embarks on a new life exploring ecological and environmental issues.
Konoba will say goodbye after a series of concerts between now and the summer to dedicate his next phase to fighting climate change.
"I studied, among other things, the circular economy, carbon management, ecosystems and soil microbiology," the producer revealed in a recent Facebook post. "I've already started to engage in some super interesting projects." Well aware that time is running out to reverse the trend and avoid terrible climate consequences, "I can no longer sit idly by, waiting for others to find solutions, I need to throw myself body and soul into this battle."
We focus too much on ourselves
His decision to make such a dramatic change is partially down to the disillusionment he said he has experienced in the music industry. Denouncing the egocentrism that arises from social networks, the mental health problems they cause in artists, and the harshness of the music industry, Konoba said that he is going in search of something more real.
"While we should more than ever connect with others, with nature, we do the opposite," he said. "We focus too much on ourselves, we become obsessed with ourselves, we compare ourselves to others constantly."
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"(The music industry) is extremely ego-centric: 'Look at me, listen to me, buy my concert tickets, love me – otherwise I cease to exist.' It's not a healthy space to live in," the artist continued. "Our mental health is fragile and precious."
"A word of advice: forget followers, likes, this false social validation," Konoba concluded. "It has no value, it's toxic, and it consumes us slowly."
