Manpreet Kundi recently released her self-written debut EP unresolved, delivering four tracks that explore love, heartbreak and self-acceptance through raw acoustic foundations, stirring vocal melodies and emotive strings. From an artist championed by BBC Introducing, and earning coveted spots across editorial playlists, listeners receive an invite to experience personal growth in its rawest form. Manpreet has grown exponentially as an artist and a storyteller since the start of her career, so we caught up to discuss where she’s at right now.
Can you tell us about your production process on unresolved, and how you achieved that signature blend of acoustic, cinematic and dreamy?
My boyfriend was the main producer on the project, whilst I helped direct and at times co-produce (although I’m really not a technical person haha!).
I think the songs in their raw form are quite ethereal, which helps to inspire the vision. I always want to keep the acoustic roots of each song intact, some have fewer elements like ‘salvage’, whereas songs like ‘selfish’ feature heavier production; but my vocals and main instrument are always emphasised. We focus on each song itself and its potential.
For me, strings are a main element to add if I want to make a song cinematic and ethereal. They always sound perfect to my ears. We were inspired by vintage Disney strings, especially in salvage for example!
You’ve said that writing unresolved empowered you, despite it stemming from vulnerable experiences. How have you found the strength to express these emotions and in what way have they helped you evolve as an artist?
At first, it’s so scary to put music out there – especially in front of people who know you – and might not know that side of you, or that you’ve experienced those things. But making a song I love is the best feeling in the world, and the excitement of releasing it always outweighs how scary it is.
I’d say I’ve leaned into my vulnerability, and I love lyricism with depth and details. I feel like I was raised on those things, looking at my favourite artists. As I’ve written more songs, I write in the most honest way I can and I’ve tried to push myself musically and lyrically over time. The craft is important, and so is the sense of honesty.
The project feels intensely personal. Are there any specific lines or moments on the EP that hold a special place for you, and why?
The intro strings in ‘selfish’ are one of my favourite moments! I wrote the arrangement on piano, actually for the bridge (where it plays again) and then realised they absolutely needed to introduce the song. To me, they sound exactly how I was feeling in that situation.
The line in selfish “you’re a force by yourself, and you won’t stop ‘til you’ve touched ground” is special to me, comparing this person to lightning because of how relentless they were in their pursuit and everything else they did. I love the symbolism and themes in ‘selfish’ so much, and the specific lyrics that convey them.
In unresolved, “because you’re my favourite for life” in the context of the bridge is so fragile and heartbreaking, every time I sing it I can remember the feeling I had when I wrote it.
Lastly, “I’ve been wondering why we haven’t talked about your kiss on my neck, I can feel it ache like the perfect wound on my skin” because I love the intimacy of this lyric. It feels poetic but also so honest.
Sorry, I feel like that’s too many already! I wish I could pick more haha, but I’ll stop there.
What advice would you give to other young artists about writing vulnerably, and being honest in songwriting?
I think honesty is the key to great songwriting, I think it comes naturally when you get more comfortable writing songs. I would tell them never to hold back. Listening to great songwriting and artists that inspire you is an important part as well.
Now that the EP is out in the world, what comes next for you as a songwriter?
I definitely want to honour this era, sometimes it feels as if things move so fast. But I’m so looking forward to the future! This EP is a perfect beginning since these are the oldest songs I have that I’ll release!
There‘s so much music I can’t wait to have out in the world someday. And having people actually excited and awaiting that, is something I couldn’t ever have imagined. It means everything.