Rhythm of Love: In conversation with Kivito Achumi

By Khumjongla Thongtsar

Music serves as a constant source of joy for Kivito Achumi who found his musical calling at an early age. The 25-year-old singer and a composer from Kohima released his debut single, “Oblivion” on June 14, 2024, which has received positive feedbacks from the listeners.

Apart from church music, he is influenced by bands and musicians like Mr. Big, Alter Bridge, James Bay and John Mayer.

Here are excerpts of an exclusive interview with the budding singer.

Eastern Mirror: Can you introduce yourself to those who have not heard of you yet?

Kivito Achumi: I’m Kivito, a singer and songwriter. I’m 25-year-old and I belong to the Sumi community. I have done my M.Sc in Statistics at Manipur University, Imphal and here I am doing music.

Eastern Mirror: When did you discovery your calling into music? Can you tell us about your musical journey?

Kivito Achumi: I started singing at an early age. I remember the very first time I performed at the age of 8. I also formed a band with a group of close friends during high school called ‘Avenues’ , then and there I’ve been doing music passionately.

Eastern Mirror: Which musicians have inspired you?

Kivito Achumi: So many artistes inspired me and made me the musician I am today, specifically Mr. Big, Alter Bridge and James Bay. But as I delved deeper into music, John Mayer was the one who inspired me most, and not forgetting praise and worship tunes.

Eastern Mirror: What is your debut single “Oblivion” all about and tell us the inspiration behind it?

Kivito Achumi: Oblivion is a song about a relationship that once brought so much joy but ultimately ended in a heart break. The lyrics reflect on the good times and the deep connection shared, and acknowledges the remorse and regret of how things fell apart. It’s an artistic lyric and I wanted to write the saddest song possible. One evening I was just playing some riffs and then I started humming to the melody, and that’s how oblivion came to life.

Eastern Mirror: How did you feel when your debut single started streaming on all platforms?

Kivito Achumi; I was extremely nervous and excited, I didn’t have much expectations but the love I received exceeded the scale of my expectation and I can’t be more grateful.

Eastern Mirror: How has music shaped your life?

Kivito Achumi: Music has profoundly influenced and enriched my life. To me, music serves as a sanctuary from the harsh realities of life. It has been a constant source of joy and a means of expression.

Eastern Mirror: What are the challenges you encounter as a musician?

Kivito Achumi: Most people believe we can’t earn a living through music. In the society where we live in, everybody wants government jobs and that If you’re doing music as your career they shake their head with disagreement. Also not forgetting most people want us to perform free of cost in the pretext of ‘platform’ and it’s unfair, as musicians should be paid for the service rendered.

Eastern Mirror: Do you plan on any upcoming projects?

Kivito Achumi: Yes, I’m working on my second single and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

Eastern Mirror: Any message for your listeners?

Kivito Achumi: I just want to say thank you so so much for being part of this musical journey, your support means the world to me. I hope my music brings you as much joy and comfort as it does to me.