How Qendresa went from working at Sexy Fish to writing for Drake

Qendresa, the London-based R&B singer-songwriter of Kosovo-Albanian descent, has experienced a transformative year in 2026, propelled by her unexpected collaboration with global superstar Drake. Her involvement in the recording sessions for Drake’s ambitious Iceman album trilogy has significantly elevated her profile in the music industry.

The connection between Qendresa and Drake originated when he shared her track “Tearz” on Instagram, sparking a series of conversations that quickly evolved into musical exchanges. These interactions led to an invitation to join Drake’s Bahamas-based writing camp, initially intended for a single album but ultimately spanning three separate releases: ICEMAN, HABIBTI, and MAID OF HONOUR. Qendresa contributed to several tracks across these albums, including vocals on "Slap the City," backing vocals on “Gen 5” and “Fortworth,” and a credited feature on “Stuck.”

Following the release of these albums in May, Qendresa saw a dramatic increase in her monthly listeners, jumping from under one million to over six million. She has noted that this surge brought in fans who resonate authentically with her music rather than being driven by hype, reflecting her preference for cultivating a dedicated and genuine audience.

Amid this newfound attention, Qendresa released new music that further showcases her evolving artistry. Her latest single “Besitos” marks her exploration of reggaeton, blending playful rhythms with introspective themes such as attachment and love. The B-side, “Gave Myself 2 U,” offers a contrasting mood with its sensual, 1980s-influenced sound, designed to evoke deep emotional responses from listeners.

Qendresa’s artistic identity is deeply intertwined with her cultural heritage and upbringing. Born to Kosovo-Albanian immigrants in Kilburn, northwest London, her name symbolizes endurance in Albanian and reflects the turbulent history of Kosovo during the 1990s. Although her family did not foster a distinctly creative environment, they supported her musical interests from an early age.

Her formative years were marked by a strong connection to London’s vibrant underground music scenes, particularly the drum and bass, jungle, and UK garage genres. These styles shaped her musical sensibilities and instilled a sense of pride in London’s distinctive voice, which she continues to express through her thick West London accent in her vocal delivery.

Before fully committing to music, Qendresa held a variety of jobs, including retail and hospitality roles, and pursued a brief educational focus on fashion and fine art. Her break into the music world began with DJing at 24 and attending a course at the London Sound Academy, leading to performances at well-known venues such as The Ivy and Sexy Fish. Her growing presence was further solidified through appearances on Boiler Room and NTS radio.

Her debut EP, Midnight Request Line, released in 2020, laid the groundwork for her subsequent full-length album, Londra, which arrived in 2024. Despite her strong ties to London, she relocated to Brighton three years ago, citing changes in the city’s atmosphere and affordability as factors that have altered the city she once knew.

Qendresa’s narrative is emblematic of a new generation of artists who bridge cultural backgrounds with local identity, crafting music that pays homage to their roots while engaging a global audience. Her collaboration with Drake not only amplifies her reach but also signals the rising influence of artists emerging from London’s diverse and dynamic music landscape. Details about her future projects remain limited, but her trajectory suggests continued innovation and expanding recognition.