As seen in Guitar Girl Magazine Issue 17 – Fall 2021
The Bells & Whistles
Anyone who has spent more than five minutes watching guitar videos on Instagram or TikTok will probably recognize Kiki Wong right away. Not only is she a talented guitarist with a knack for writing tasty metal riffs, but her colorful and charismatic personality sets her apart from the millions of other videos out there.
NOTE: This article originally appeared on our Fall 2021 edition which can be seen at the link above.
Kiki started with classical piano lessons and then discovered her love for guitar at the age of 13. Since then, she has performed in original bands such as Nylon Pink and Vigil of War, toured with legendary groups like the Misfits, and shared the stage with the likes of Taylor Swift, Usher, Bebe Rexha, and more.
When the 2020 pandemic brought live music to a screeching halt, Kiki kept all of her fans smiling through social media with an endless supply of guitar videos. From metal renditions of Britney Spears to unexpected duets of cats sneezing along to Dragonforce licks, Kiki raised the standard of the typical guitar cover with her “Shrednanigans.”
She has managed to inspire countless players—myself included—during an otherwise dark period for musicians. We were able to catch up with Kiki and discover a little bit more about her journey.
You began playing acoustic guitar at a young age. What inspired you to switch it up and pursue metal?
It’s funny because I started on the acoustic with every intention to learn heavy songs. I remember when I picked up the acoustic guitar; I was already wondering how it was supposed to make the distorted tone that you hear in rock songs. My acoustic ballad days didn’t last too long, ha-ha.
What gear (guitar, amps, pedals, etc.) do you currently use, and why?
Oh man, gear-wise, I have a smorgasbord of things. I’ve got a JCM 2000 DSL 100 head and a JCM 900 cab, a Peavey XXX 2×12 all-tube combo amp, a little Line 6 Spider III 15 W practice amp, a Kemper, and a Positive Grid Spark. I also use Logic for some of my pop covers. Every piece of equipment has its own beefy tones and sounds, whether it’s for live or just video creation.
The pandemic has affected a lot of musicians. What kept you motivated once live shows were postponed?
Honestly, it was a pretty big hit when the pandemic happened. I was doing a lot of travel blogging, and we had six media trips around the world planned, and all got canceled. I didn’t really know what to do, so I started playing guitar and recording videos on TikTok. Eventually, they really picked up, and that’s been keeping me motivated ever since. I feel like I’ve been able to connect with fans on a whole new level more than I would during live shows, so it’s been amazing!
You’ve built up a large following and made a name for yourself as an influencer, but how has social media influenced YOU as a musician?
It’s been a whirlwind of ups and downs the last year. I’ve made a lot of changes with what I do occupationally and emotionally as a person. However, one of the greatest parts of building a social media following is being able to connect with some incredible followers and musicians. It’s been an absolute honor and pleasure to really get to know my fans and other musicians. People I likely wouldn’t have a chance to meet I’ve been able to connect with. Also, people have been meeting like-minded musicians and metalheads through my platform, so it’s amazing to see them connecting with each other as well.
One of your many talents is taking popular songs and recreating shred versions. Is there a specific creative process you follow for that? (For example, do you hear a song and think of adding a technique, etc.?)
I started playing in a band called Nylon Pink in 2010. We did a lot of heavy electronic covers of KPOP music, and it’s one of my favorite ways to write music. Usually, I’ll sit with a song and just do it all by ear, listening where I want to move the root of the chords. I also try and pick out different syncopations from the drums and apply it to my playing. Also, through so many years of listening to metal, I can sometimes just hear what metal riff will go where. It’s a process; sometimes, it hits really quick; others, I have to take a few days to sit on it, but it eventually gets there in the end!
How would you describe your overall approach to writing songs/riffs/solos?
Unpredictable, but always fun. I’m not the best guitarist in the world by any means, but I do have a load of fun doing it!
How did Vigil of War come together, and what’s next?
I joined the band to fill in for a UK tour. I wasn’t playing music at all, so I was really apprehensive about my playing ability at the time and almost didn’t even go out of fear of failure. But once I went, it revitalized my passion for music. It was by far one of my favorite tours I’ve ever been on, and I’m grateful for it. We’re just finishing up our EP, so stay tuned for some videos, music, and shows coming your way! Follow @vigilofwar on Instagram!
Are there any other musical projects on the horizon for you?
Lots of great things are coming, but I can’t officially announce them yet! Stay tuned on IG stories @kikiwongo
Play the things you LOVE!
What advice do you have for new players looking to enhance their metal chops?
Play the things you LOVE! I can’t stress this enough. Sometimes, we get too wrapped up in the technical aspects of playing. These are absolutely ESSENTIAL, but if you’re just getting started, don’t worry too much about perfection. It’s all about passion and feel. A little grungy, dirty sound isn’t going to hurt you if you’re feeling it. I’d rather hear something with a feel that’s a little sloppy than something too clean and too robotic. Be you unapologetically, and let that shine in your playing!