Ricky Kej: Attuned to travel

My music concerts take me all around the world. I have performed in over 25 countries in the last couple of years and collaborated with organisations such as the United Nations and World Health Organisation. In short, I travel quite frequently, sometimes as frequent as every other week to attend important events, meetings and brain-storming sessions. Travel is a learning experience for me. When I travel for my projects, I spend time immersing myself in diverse cultures. This serves as an inspiration for my music.

Geared up for music

I don’t carry too much baggage. I like to pack smart and carry only essentials. Most of my luggage is usually music gear required for my concerts and whatever is required for me to continue making music even on the move.

I always carry my laptop, headphones and some specific music gear because inspiration can strike at any time and I can make music. Phone and battery backs, of course!

My smartphone is my saviour for several reasons, the most important being the music on it… it gets me through the numerous flights that I take due to my travel schedule and the long layovers.

I prefer a decent leg room and choose an exit row seat if available when I’m flying. Due to my height, if I don’t get the preferred seat, I try to take the window or an aisle seat.

Cravings

My most religious travel regime... may not be ‘religious’ in that sense, but I absolutely love pizzas and have to eat a pizza any place I go.

Traveling to the Republic of Kiribati (a small Pacific island nation off Fiji) is one of the most memorable travel experiences I have had. I went there to interview their ex-president, his Excellency Anote Tong, and to create a music video to raise awareness about the plight of this beautiful country. Kiribati is a low-lying pacific island nation comprising 33 atoll islands. Unfortunately, they are going to be the first nation to go completely underwater due to Climate Change and rising sea levels. I spent a few weeks there interacting with the locals, revelling in its music and culture, and exploring the country. They have some of the most beautiful beaches and marine life.