Keanu joined Takee live and in the studio on SYN 90.7 FM to talk all about his music and creative journey so far. 

Keanu Askar is an emerging artist whose music blends vulnerability, melody, and modern production into a sound that feels both global and deeply personal. Drawing from hip-hop, rap, and contemporary pop influences, he creates songs that explore emotion with honesty and intent.
Influenced by artists like The Kid Laroi, Juice WRLD, and Iann Dior, Keanu’s work is rooted in storytelling — transforming real experiences into relatable, emotionally charged music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he brings authenticity and precision to every project.
A graduate of Full Sail University in Florida with a degree in Music Production, Keanu has refined his craft in sound design, recording, and audio engineering, developing a skill set that allows him to take complete creative control of his sound.
His latest single, “Aquafina,” channels the highs and lows of modern relationships — inspired by a series of difficult dating experiences reimagined as one story about an unattainable love. It captures the tension between desire and detachment, pairing heartfelt lyrics with sleek, contemporary production.
Keanu recently collaborated with Sydney artist Suhail on several songs for an upcoming EP, continuing to expand his sound and artistic direction.
Born to a Lebanese family and fluent in English, French, and some Arabic, Keanu’s multicultural background gives him a unique creative perspective and global sensibility. With each new release, he continues to evolve as an authentic voice in modern music — unfiltered, emotionally honest, and driven by connection.

Keanu joined Takee live and in the studio on SYN 90.7 FM to talk all about his music and creative journey so far.&nbsp;
Keanu Askar is an emerging artist whose music blends vulnerability, melody, and modern production into a sound that feels both global and deeply personal. Drawing from hip-hop, rap, and contemporary pop influences, he creates songs that explore emotion with honesty and intent. Influenced by artists like The Kid Laroi, Juice WRLD, and Iann Dior, Keanu&rsquo;s work is rooted in storytelling &mdash; transforming real experiences into relatable, emotionally charged music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he brings authenticity and precision to every project. A graduate of Full Sail University in Florida with a degree in Music Production, Keanu has refined his craft in sound design, recording, and audio engineering, developing a skill set that allows him to take complete creative control of his sound. His latest single, &ldquo;Aquafina,&rdquo; channels the highs and lows of modern relationships &mdash; inspired by a series of difficult dating experiences reimagined as one story about an unattainable love. It captures the tension between desire and detachment, pairing heartfelt lyrics with sleek, contemporary production. Keanu recently collaborated with Sydney artist Suhail on several songs for an upcoming EP, continuing to expand his sound and artistic direction. Born to a Lebanese family and fluent in English, French, and some Arabic, Keanu&rsquo;s multicultural background gives him a unique creative perspective and global sensibility. With each new release, he continues to evolve as an authentic voice in modern music &mdash; unfiltered, emotionally honest, and driven by connection.

Keanu Askar | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee sat down with Nathaniel, Rocco and Brandon from MONROE live on the airwaves!

Tune in to find out more about them and hear some live renditions of their originals. Stream their new single ‘Bad Bitch (You Can’t Kill Me)’ which is OUT NOW on all streaming platforms!!

It truly is an an anthem of empowerment and self-expression inspired by the iconic Vine. After hitting #1 on the AMRAP charts with ‘Take Me For a Ride’, MONROE are back and louder than ever, a reminder that glitter and grit never go out of style.

MONROE brings glam-pop energy with a wink and a wild streak, riff-heavy, high-energy, and all about having a good time. Think Van Halen meets The Darkness with a dash of The Struts swagger, loud, unapologetic, and built for chaos.

Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Nathaniel, with Rocco and Jason trading guitar licks, Brandon keeping it tight on drums, and Christian laying down the groove, MONROE delivers big hooks, bigger smiles, and a live show made for pure escapism.

Takee sat down with Nathaniel, Rocco and Brandon from MONROE&nbsp;live on the airwaves!
Tune in to find out more about them and hear some live renditions of their originals. Stream their new single &lsquo;Bad Bitch (You Can&rsquo;t Kill Me)&rsquo; which is OUT NOW on all streaming platforms!!
It truly is an an anthem of empowerment and self-expression inspired by the iconic Vine. After hitting <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/1/">#1</a>&nbsp;on the AMRAP charts with &lsquo;Take Me For a Ride&rsquo;, MONROE are back and louder than ever, a reminder that glitter and grit never go out of style. MONROE brings glam-pop energy with a wink and a wild streak, riff-heavy, high-energy, and all about having a good time. Think Van Halen meets The Darkness with a dash of The Struts swagger, loud, unapologetic, and built for chaos. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Nathaniel, with Rocco and Jason trading guitar licks, Brandon keeping it tight on drums, and Christian laying down the groove, MONROE delivers big hooks, bigger smiles, and a live show made for pure escapism.

MONROE | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Rennie Pearson to talk all about his music and journey so far!

Rennie Pearson’s music is deeply rooted in the Celtic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies with fresh energy and artistry. Whether he’s performing on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish tin whistles, bodhrán, fiddle, or with his voice, his music takes audiences on a journey through history and culture.

His shows feature soaring flute melodies, captivating songs, foot-stomping jigs and reels, and heart-wrenching slow airs. Each performance is a carefully crafted tapestry of tunes, songs, and storytelling, designed to engage and transport listeners to another time and place. Rennie’s ability to transition seamlessly between high-energy tunes and emotive ballads keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, making each performance dynamic and unforgettable.

Rennie is a master performer on a wide array of instruments, showcasing extraordinary talent and versatility in every performance. His seamless command of multiple musical styles captivates audiences, while the heartfelt emotion in his slow airs and songs resonates deeply, creating a powerful and personal connection. Audiences often say they felt transported, with some describing it as a journey back home, while others share how the music awakened a deep connection they hadn’t realized they had before.

Rennie has made a name for himself in the traditional music scene of Australia and New Zealand as a stand-out solo performer, as well as touring his own duos, bands, and performing with large international stage productions. He has played and taught all over the world, including music schools such as Ceol Aneas, ScotsStrings, CelticANZ, Gaeltacht, The National Celtic Festival, Boxwood, and folk festivals in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Tasmania, and Port Fairy.

Rennie has worked closely with the New Zealand Irish ambassador, Peter Ryan, on numerous occasions, including performing his show at the Dunedin Fringe Festival with the Irish embassy's support and organizing two tours with his five-piece Irish band, Criú. He has also toured with renowned Irish dance troupes, including Celtica, Rhythm Of The Dance, and Celtic Illusion, across New Zealand, Australia, and China, as their flute and bodhrán player. These tours have taken him to prestigious venues such as the Melbourne Arts Centre, the Wellington Opera House, the Christchurch Isaac Theatre, and the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland.

​

In addition to his performance career, Rennie’s recording accolades include his first album, released in 2020, with Oscar West as the Kiwi folk duo Polytropos. His solo album, From Across the Seas, followed in 2022, and his most recent release, AIR, came out in 2023. AIR is an acoustic EP of all-original tracks for flutes, whistles, and guitar, recorded with Bob McNeill as their duo, Half Light.

Rennie’s collaborations also extend to international recording projects. Most notably, he appeared alongside world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma on the track "The Fireside Jig" from Sandra Boynton’s album Cows and Holly. This project also featured other prominent names such as Stuart Duncan, Michael Ford and Lyle Lovett.

With a career that has taken him across New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Canada, America, and China, Rennie’s performances are as intimate as they are captivating. Whether he’s playing dance music that makes you want to leap from your chair or delivering a hauntingly beautiful piece that brings tears to the eyes, his artistry and passion for this beautiful and ancient music leave a lasting impression on all who hear him. As he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Rennie remains dedicated to sharing the depth and richness of Celtic music, ensuring its traditions endure and inspire future generations.

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Rennie Pearson&nbsp;to talk all about his music and journey so far! Rennie Pearson&rsquo;s music is deeply rooted in the Celtic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies with fresh energy and artistry. Whether he&rsquo;s performing on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish tin whistles, bodhr&aacute;n, fiddle, or with his voice, his music takes audiences on a journey through history and culture. His shows feature soaring flute melodies, captivating songs, foot-stomping jigs and reels, and heart-wrenching slow airs. Each performance is a carefully crafted tapestry of tunes, songs, and storytelling, designed to engage and transport listeners to another time and place. Rennie&rsquo;s ability to transition seamlessly between high-energy tunes and emotive ballads keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, making each performance dynamic and unforgettable. Rennie is a master performer on a wide array of instruments, showcasing extraordinary talent and versatility in every performance. His seamless command of multiple musical styles captivates audiences, while the heartfelt emotion in his slow airs and songs resonates deeply, creating a powerful and personal connection. Audiences often say they felt transported, with some describing it as a journey back home, while others share how the music awakened a deep connection they hadn&rsquo;t realized they had before.
Rennie has made a name for himself in the traditional music scene of Australia and New Zealand as a stand-out solo performer, as well as touring his own duos, bands, and performing with large international stage productions. He has played and taught all over the world, including music schools such as Ceol Aneas, ScotsStrings, CelticANZ, Gaeltacht, The National Celtic Festival, Boxwood, and folk festivals in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Tasmania, and Port Fairy.
Rennie has worked closely with the New Zealand Irish ambassador, Peter Ryan, on numerous occasions, including performing his show at the Dunedin Fringe Festival with the Irish embassy's support and organizing two tours with his five-piece Irish band, Cri&uacute;. He has also toured with renowned Irish dance troupes, including Celtica, Rhythm Of The Dance, and Celtic Illusion, across New Zealand, Australia, and China, as their flute and bodhr&aacute;n player. These tours have taken him to prestigious venues such as the Melbourne Arts Centre, the Wellington Opera House, the Christchurch Isaac Theatre, and the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland.
​
In addition to his performance career, Rennie&rsquo;s recording accolades include his first album, released in 2020, with Oscar West as the Kiwi folk duo Polytropos. His solo album, From Across the Seas, followed in 2022, and his most recent release, AIR, came out in 2023. AIR is an acoustic EP of all-original tracks for flutes, whistles, and guitar, recorded with Bob McNeill as their duo, Half Light.
Rennie&rsquo;s collaborations also extend to international recording projects. Most notably, he appeared alongside world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma on the track "The Fireside Jig" from Sandra Boynton&rsquo;s album Cows and Holly. This project also featured other prominent names such as Stuart Duncan, Michael Ford and Lyle Lovett.
With a career that has taken him across New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Canada, America, and China, Rennie&rsquo;s performances are as intimate as they are captivating. Whether he&rsquo;s playing dance music that makes you want to leap from your chair or delivering a hauntingly beautiful piece that brings tears to the eyes, his artistry and passion for this beautiful and ancient music leave a lasting impression on all who hear him. As he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Rennie remains dedicated to sharing the depth and richness of Celtic music, ensuring its traditions endure and inspire future generations.

Rennie Pearson | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Minhy to dive deep into her journey, music and upcoming gigs!

Minhy (Mini)  is a Naarm-based songwriter and designer who creates immersive worlds through her award winning visuals, eloquent lyrics and laidback style of pop-R&B. With a background in automotive design, music has become her vehicle to express and tell her story.

She has performed at festivals including Brunswick Music Festival, Leaps and Bounds and Sleepless Festival, and is an alumna of The Boite’s Portfolio Project. Minhy is also an events co-ordinator for South by South East Asian (SXSEA “sexy”), organising events that spotlight artists of the Asian diaspora to create the way they want, free from cultural expectations. Minhy also launched her own Open Mic x Dessert Night series this year called Sweet & Sound.

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Minhy to dive deep into her journey, music and upcoming gigs!
Minhy (Mini)&nbsp; is a Naarm-based songwriter and designer who creates immersive worlds through her award winning visuals, eloquent lyrics and laidback style of pop-R&amp;B. With a background in automotive design, music has become her vehicle to express and tell her story.
She has performed at festivals including Brunswick Music Festival, Leaps and Bounds and Sleepless Festival, and is an alumna of The Boite&rsquo;s Portfolio Project. Minhy is also an events co-ordinator for South by South East Asian (SXSEA &ldquo;sexy&rdquo;), organising events that spotlight artists of the Asian diaspora to create the way they want, free from cultural expectations. Minhy also launched her own Open Mic x Dessert Night series this year called Sweet &amp; Sound.

Minhy | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was joined by Ash, Sam & Kath from The Clever References to talk all about their music and upcoming gigs. 

The band consists of five members: Ash, Janset, Kath, Sam and Vidusha, who are queer, chaotic, and dangerously catchy. They make smart, loud, slightly unhinged indie rock with hooks for days and the occasional flute solo. Their lyrics name-drop Jane Austen and Magic: The Gathering in the same breath, and somehow it works...maybe? lol.

If you’re looking for vibes, volume, and a very good time—you just found your new favourite band: The Clever References.

Takee was joined by Ash, Sam &amp; Kath from The Clever References to talk all about their music and upcoming gigs.&nbsp;
The band consists of five members: Ash, Janset, Kath, Sam and Vidusha, who are queer, chaotic, and dangerously catchy. They make smart, loud, slightly unhinged indie rock with hooks for days and the occasional flute solo. Their lyrics name-drop Jane Austen and Magic: The Gathering in the same breath, and somehow it works...maybe? lol.
If you&rsquo;re looking for vibes, volume, and a very good time&mdash;you just found your new favourite band: The Clever References.

The Clever References | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee's joined by Adam Mendum, a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter whose intricate fingerstyle guitar work and heartfelt storytelling create a deeply intimate folk sound to talk all things music. Inspired by artists like Gregory Alan Isakov and Hozier, Adam began crafting his songs in 2024, drawing from personal experiences with honesty and warmth to invite listeners into his world. On the back of a successful first album release in March at The Tote Hotel, Adam has released his first single; She Feels Like Home. 

Takee's joined by Adam Mendum, a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter whose intricate&nbsp;fingerstyle guitar work and heartfelt storytelling create a deeply intimate&nbsp;folk sound to talk all things music. Inspired by artists like Gregory Alan Isakov and Hozier, Adam began crafting his songs in 2024, drawing from personal experiences with&nbsp;honesty and warmth to invite listeners into his world. On the back of a&nbsp;successful first album release in March at The Tote Hotel, Adam has&nbsp;released his first single; She Feels Like Home.&nbsp;

Adam Mendum | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee welcomes Floyd Graham to the studio to talk all things to do with music and creativity, as well as Casual Interplay; a Jam night he and his band 'Origami Jazz Fight' are putting on at the B.East in Brunswick on October 24th at 8:30 pm.

Floyd is a visual artist and multi-instrumentalist from New South Wales, Australia. Gifted an electric guitar at just five years old, Floyd’s early spark for music grew into a lifelong dedication to the arts. He went on to earn a degree with honours in composition, majoring in performance and sound production, setting the stage for a career defined by creativity and versatility.

Floyd’s journey as a composer began at sixteen, inspired by the intricate fingerstyle guitar work of artists like Michael Hedges, Kaki King, and Andy McKee. Since then, his sound has evolved into a rich fusion of Electronica, RnB, Progressive Rock, Folk, Jazz, and Indie — a reflection of his ever-expanding musical curiosity.

Now based in Melbourne, Floyd wears many creative hats: from solo producer and co-writer with Ben Ackerley of Strange Gringo, to sound designer for theatre and even wedding entertainer. He also leads Origami Jazz Fight, a four-piece jazz fusion project that celebrates improvisation, ear training, and the joy of musical exploration.

With such a broad palette of sounds and experiences, Floyd Graham continues to blur the lines between genres and disciplines — proving that true artistry knows no boundaries. 

Takee welcomes Floyd Graham to the studio to talk all things to do with music and creativity, as well as Casual Interplay; a Jam night he and his band 'Origami Jazz Fight' are putting on&nbsp;at the B.East in Brunswick on October 24th at 8:30 pm.
Floyd is a visual artist and multi-instrumentalist from New South Wales, Australia. Gifted an electric guitar at just five years old, Floyd&rsquo;s early spark for music grew into a lifelong dedication to the arts. He went on to earn a degree with honours in composition, majoring in performance and sound production, setting the stage for a career defined by creativity and versatility.
Floyd&rsquo;s journey as a composer began at sixteen, inspired by the intricate fingerstyle guitar work of artists like Michael Hedges, Kaki King, and Andy McKee. Since then, his sound has evolved into a rich fusion of Electronica, RnB, Progressive Rock, Folk, Jazz, and Indie &mdash; a reflection of his ever-expanding musical curiosity.
Now based in Melbourne, Floyd wears many creative hats: from solo producer and co-writer with Ben Ackerley of Strange Gringo, to sound designer for theatre and even wedding entertainer. He also leads Origami Jazz Fight, a four-piece jazz fusion project that celebrates improvisation, ear training, and the joy of musical exploration.
With such a broad palette of sounds and experiences, Floyd Graham continues to blur the lines between genres and disciplines &mdash; proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.&nbsp;

Floyd Graham | The Spotlight with Takee

Janine Maunder from Naked Raven joins Takee in the studio to talk about her music, creative journey, and upcoming show at Kew Courthouse on Friday, 24th October! Known for their raw energy, intricate melodies, and electrifying live performances, this trio blends indie, rock, and soulful storytelling into a sound that’s uniquely their own.

Whether it’s soaring choruses, compelling lyrics, or infectious grooves, this band brings an intensity and honesty that keeps fans coming back for more.

Janine Maunder from Naked Raven joins Takee in the studio to talk about her music, creative journey, and upcoming show at&nbsp;Kew Courthouse on Friday, 24th October! Known for their raw energy, intricate melodies, and electrifying live performances, this trio blends indie, rock, and soulful storytelling into a sound that&rsquo;s uniquely their own.
Whether it&rsquo;s soaring choruses, compelling lyrics, or infectious grooves, this band brings an intensity and honesty that keeps fans coming back for more.

naked raven | The Spotlight with Takee

Josh and Victor; two incredible facilitators of The Gentlemen’s Choir joined Takee to share more about their journey, the power of song in men’s work, and what it means to build brotherhood through music.

The gentlemen's choir was originally founded to learn the art of singing, but has now evolved into something far beyond music. It’s a space where men come together each week not only to explore rhythm, harmony, tone, and melody, but also to connect, challenge themselves, and rediscover the parts of who they are.

It’s men’s work through song — a brotherhood built on vocal expression, self-discovery, and shared growth. With no need for musical training, it’s an open invitation for men to find their voice — not just in music, but in life.

Josh and Victor; two incredible facilitators of The Gentlemen&rsquo;s Choir joined Takee to share more about their journey, the power of song in men&rsquo;s work, and what it means to build brotherhood through music.
The gentlemen's choir was originally founded to learn the art of singing, but has now evolved into something far beyond music. It&rsquo;s a space where men come together each week not only to explore rhythm, harmony, tone, and melody, but also to connect, challenge themselves, and rediscover the parts of who they are.
It&rsquo;s men&rsquo;s work through song &mdash; a brotherhood built on vocal expression, self-discovery, and shared growth. With no need for musical training, it&rsquo;s an open invitation for men to find their voice &mdash; not just in music, but in life.

Josh & Victor of The Gentlemen's Choir | The Spotlight with Takee

Alexis joins Takee to dive into her musical journey and what’s next on the horizon.

nown for her compelling songwriting and heartfelt performances, Alexis draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists—from Jewel and Gordi to Lady Gaga, London Grammar, and Florence, with a touch of Missy Higgins.

Whether collaborating with fellow musicians or lending her voice to the EDM world on tracks like Follow Me And Dream and Smoke & Mirrors, Alexis has made her mark across multiple genres. Her music has even featured in film and documentary projects, bringing stories to life with raw emotion.

2025 is set to be a big year for Alexis, with the long-awaited release of her second album and more exciting projects to come.

Alexis joins Takee to&nbsp;dive into her musical journey and what&rsquo;s next on the horizon.
nown for her compelling songwriting and heartfelt performances, Alexis draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists&mdash;from Jewel and Gordi to Lady Gaga, London Grammar, and Florence, with a touch of Missy Higgins.
Whether collaborating with fellow musicians or lending her voice to the EDM world on tracks like Follow Me And Dream and Smoke &amp; Mirrors, Alexis has made her mark across multiple genres. Her music has even featured in film and documentary projects, bringing stories to life with raw emotion.
2025 is set to be a big year for Alexis, with the long-awaited release of her second album and more exciting projects to come.

Alexis Naylor | The Spotlight with Takee

‘The Spotlight’ takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive every episode, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers, and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries.

Each episode offers an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a creative journey. 

For creatives, the show offers valuable lessons, inspiration, and a sense of connection. For fans, it provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of the people they admire. And for anyone curious about the inner workings of the creative industries, The Spotlight is an essential guide that balances storytelling with practical insight. 

It’s a platform for discovery, fostering a deeper appreciation for the many layers of the industry. 

Whether you’re a passionate fan, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Spotlight invites you to listen, learn, and be inspired.

&lsquo;The Spotlight&rsquo; takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive every episode, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers, and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries.
Each episode offers an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a creative journey.&nbsp;
For creatives, the show offers valuable lessons, inspiration, and a sense of connection. For fans, it provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of the people they admire. And for anyone curious about the inner workings of the creative industries,&nbsp;The Spotlight is an essential guide that balances storytelling with practical insight.&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s a platform for discovery, fostering a deeper appreciation for the many layers of the industry.&nbsp;
Whether you&rsquo;re a passionate fan, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves a good story,&nbsp;The Spotlight&nbsp;invites you to listen, learn, and be inspired.

The Spotlight

Each week, ‘The Spotlight’ takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers, and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. Offering an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a creative journey.

Whether you’re a passionate fan, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Spotlight invites you to listen, learn, and be inspired.

Each week, &lsquo;The Spotlight&rsquo; takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers, and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. Offering an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a creative journey.
Whether you&rsquo;re a passionate fan, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Spotlight&nbsp;invites you to listen, learn, and be inspired.

The Spotlight

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