FKA Twigs and North West: A Unique Music Collaboration Elevating Childlike Creativity

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Birth of “Childlike Things”
4. Choosing North West
5. Thematic Resonance: Bridging Generational Gaps
6. The Reception of EUSEXUA
7. Young Voices in Music: A Broader Discussion
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• FKA Twigs collaborated with North West on the track "Childlike Things," featured on Twigs' latest album, EUSEXUA.
• The collaboration emerged from Twigs' desire to capture the confidence and perspective of youth, as exemplified by North West, who delivered a verse in Japanese.
• The track reflects themes of unwavering belief and artistic expression, echoing both artists' childhood experiences and aspirations.

Introduction

Imagine creating a piece of art that revisits a passion you had at 12, only for someone a generation younger to collaborate with you on it years later. This is the surreal premise of the collaboration between singer-songwriter FKA Twigs and North West, daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. The track "Childlike Things," featured on Twigs' critically acclaimed album EUSEXUA, combines the talents and perspectives of two artists from vastly different backgrounds yet bound by the theme of childhood innocence and creativity. The inclusion of an 11-year-old in a professional project opens up discussions about child empowerment in the arts and the evolution of artistry over time.

The Birth of “Childlike Things”

FKA Twigs, born Tahliah Debrett Barnett, has built a reputation for her experimental sound and visual art throughout her career. With her third studio album, EUSEXUA, released in January 2025, she sought to delve deeper into personal and universal themes including belonging, creativity, and the essence of childhood dreams. The genesis of "Childlike Things" was not a mere afterthought but an intentional act responding to the modern music landscape.

In an insightful Instagram video, Twigs recounted her experience in the studio, where an impromptu jam session with producer Koreless led to a creative epiphany. "I just heard a song," Twigs recalled, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia as she remembered the lyrics flowing freely from a youthful memory.

As the song developed, Twigs recognized the need for a unique element—specifically, a youthful voice embodying the song's themes of innocence and boldness. “It really needs that childlike energy,” she noted, an acknowledgment of the strength that comes with the honesty and fearlessness of youth.

Choosing North West

With the decision to feature a young artist in mind, Twigs turned to North West, whom she observed in a recent interview. Known for her precociousness and confidence, North was deemed the perfect fit. Twigs explained, “I was impressed by how mature North is in her interviews and her ability to express herself confidently. I thought desperately while listening to her, I wasn't that confident when I was a kid.”

North's verse in the song, performed in Japanese, adds a layer of sophistication and diversity to the collaboration, mirroring her unique multicultural background. This choice exemplifies the modern global music scene, where influences from around the world are not just acknowledged but celebrated. Twigs characterized North's contribution as a strong point of view grounded in her faith, saying, “It was perfect, it was so serendipitous.”

Thematic Resonance: Bridging Generational Gaps

The lyrical themes of "Childlike Things" touch upon fundamental aspects of identity and self-expression, inviting listeners to embrace their inner child. Twigs has stated that the song encapsulates her own childhood aspirations alongside North's current experiences, creating a dialogue across generations. “I wrote the song when I was 12/13; she wrote the song when she was 11. We’ve collaborated through time,” mentioned Twigs, highlighting the remarkable synchronicity between their ages despite their age difference.

In a profound commentary on the creative process, Twigs mused about the unpredictable nature of art-making. "Things can take decades, and you don’t know the reason behind why certain ideas manifest when they do," she said. This approach resonates deeply within both the worlds of pop and experimental music. Just as the chorus embodies a wish for starry dreams and whimsical freedom, the blend of Twigs' avant-garde style with North's youthful exuberance amplifies the track's emotional weight.

The Reception of EUSEXUA

Upon its release, EUSEXUA has garnered widespread acclaim, with NME awarding it five stars. Critics praised Twigs' ability to merge various dimensions of sound, movement, and introspective lyrics into an immersive sonic experience. The album’s focus on artistic integrity and bold storytelling continues to resonate across different demographics, drawing listeners into its carefully crafted universe.

Twigs now finds herself touring Europe, the U.S., and Canada, sharing the layered narratives of EUSEXUA. As she performs at major venues in cities like London and Chicago, the significance of her collaboration with North is sure to resonate with audiences who appreciate introspective, well-crafted art.

Young Voices in Music: A Broader Discussion

The inclusion of a child artist like North West in professional music projects raises critical questions regarding the ethics and dynamics of child involvement in entertainment. As audiences witness young talents increasingly collaborating with seasoned artists, the discussion surrounding the potential for exploitation versus empowerment becomes prominent.

This collaboration represents a subtle yet potent empowerment strategy, encouraging young people to share their perspectives and engage in cultural conversations. By allowing children to express themselves artistically, as Twigs has done, the music industry acknowledges the importance of diverse voices in shaping the cultural zeitgeist.

Conclusion

In many ways, the collaboration between FKA Twigs and North West is emblematic of contemporary music—an eclectic blend of youthful charisma and artistic maturity. As audiences continue to embrace innovative collaborations that transcend age, language, and genre, the story of "Childlike Things" exemplifies the transformative power of music as a unifying force. Their partnership not only celebrates individual expression but speaks to the collective imagination of the generations to come.

FAQ

Why did FKA Twigs choose to collaborate with North West?

FKA Twigs chose North West for her confidence and mature perspective, which aligned with the themes of childhood innocence in the song. Twigs recognized North's strong point of view and felt that her inclusion would vitalize the track's essence.

What are the main themes of the song “Childlike Things”?

The song explores themes of innocence, self-expression, dreams, and the intersection of childhood aspirations with adult experiences. It emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and remaining true to one's identity through creative expression.

How has EUSEXUA been received by critics?

Critics have lauded EUSEXUA for its innovative blend of sound, movement, and lyrical depth. The album has received high ratings, including five stars from NME, highlighting Twigs’ growth as an artist and the significance of her artistic vision.

What impact does collaborating with young artists have on the music industry?

Collaborating with young artists opens dialogues about empowerment, self-expression, and the importance of diverse voices in music. It encourages discussions on the ethics of child participation in creative fields, balancing artistic expression with the need for protection and support.

What can audiences expect from Twigs' upcoming tour?

Audiences can expect energetic performances filled with intricate choreography and artistic visuals that reflect the thematic depth of EUSEXUA. Twigs aims to create an immersive experience that draws listeners into her artistic universe, complemented by her collaboration with North West in "Childlike Things."