“Five Minutes With” Vancouver-based Alternative R&B duo Midnight Genius

Jonathan Maniraho and Kathryn Masters, the Vancouver-based Alternative R&B duo best known as Midnight Genius, have been quietly growing their online fanbase over the past 5 years. The duo connected through their love of music and arts while attending the Toronto Film School in 2013.

Jonathan was born in Burundi, but grew up in NYC and later, in his teen years, moved to the Greater Toronto Area. Having moved around and gone through so many changes as a young adult, the one thing that remained the same was his passion for music, which has led him to opportunities such as musical theatre productions and tv commercials.

Kathryn was born and raised in Moncton, New Brunswick and knew from an early age she wanted to be on the big stage. Although she was seen as quiet and timid, she never shied away from the spotlight. From taking piano lessons to leading the church choir and even participating in numerous showcases and talent competitions her love of music has always followed her.

Purely independent, Midnight Genius takes pride in their unique sound. They’re not afraid to take risks and experiment with their artistic expression.

Midnight Genius
Photo by: Elina Kustlyvy

Name:

Midnight Genius

Genre:

Alternative R&B

Founded:

2017

# of Albums:

2 EP’s

Latest Album:

EP on the way

Latest Single:

High Alert

Latest Video

Favourite musician growing up:

Jonathan: Chris Brown

Kathryn: Black Eyed Peas

Favourite musician now:

Jonathan: Tems

Kathryn: SZA

Guilty pleasure song:

Jonathan: Shaggy – It Wasn’t Me

Kathryn: Ginuwine – Pony

Live show ritual:

Pray then take a tequila shot lol

Favourite local musician:

Midnight Genius of course

EP or LP?

LP

Early bird or night owl?

Jonathan: Night Owl

Kathryn: Early Bird

Road or studio?

Studio (for now)

Any shows or albums coming up?

We’re currently putting finishing touches on our new EP. In the meantime, we have our latest single ‘High Alert’ out now on all streaming platforms! Show dates TBD Spring 2023. Stay tuned!

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music | TikTok

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Rapid Fire Local Qs

What is your favourite local restaurant?

DiBeppe

What is your favourite street in your city and why?

Water Street. It’s the heart of Gastown and reminds us of small European towns.

What is your favourite park in your city and why?

Stanley Park. It’s the scenery and biking trails in the summertime for us.

What is your favourite music venue in your city?

The Orpheum.

What is your favourite music store in your city?

Vinyl Records in Gastown.

 

 

About Demian Vernieri 472 Articles
Demian is an Argentinian retired musician, avid gamer and editor for the Montréal Guardian, Toronto Guardian, Calgary Guardian and Vancouver Guardian websites.