A Q&A with Kate Klein
Zesty pop from London…
What’s the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
The name of the single is ‘STUCK.’ I wrote it during a time when I felt completely stuck, just as the title suggests. My friends and I were trying to figure life out while spending too much time drinking, partying, and giving too much energy to toxic relationships. I was trapped in a loop. One night, I had that “A-HA” moment and thought, “That’s it, I’m done.” That night, I wrote ‘STUCK.’
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
Probably finding the right balance in the vocal production was the biggest challenge. Initially, it felt a bit too simple. I sat on the song for weeks trying to figure it out so I added some ad libs and vocal melodies. Another challenge was convincing my management that the line “I hid his body inside my guitar suitcase” was a good idea. I don’t care if a guitar suitcase is not English. I sent them a Pinterest pic showing a guitar suitcase and deal done.
Who produced the release – what did they bring to it? If you produced it yourselves what do you enjoy most about producing your own material?
The idea for the instrumental came from Ale & Gio, a production duo from Italy. I then worked on it until the final mix. I like to be involved in the whole process and choose the sounds that best fit my vibe. They have a vast taste, spanning from pop to rock and dance, which is what I loved most about the track. We all listen to the new alt scene while also having a thing for ’90s, ’00s music, and 2010s pop. The song was mixed by Austin Seltzer, who, in my opinion, is one of the best mixers around. I also produce my own music, but I haven’t released a fully self-produced track yet—but it’s going to happen soon.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
Just take life easy and know that we all go through similar experiences. Be yourself and be weird. I like to add some sarcastic humour to my lyrics and challenge social norms.
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
I have two different approaches. One is when I get an instrumental from the producer and write the lyrics based on the vibe. I listen to the music and I record a full vocal take. Usually, what comes out first is almost always the melody I end up keeping. The second approach is composing on a guitar or piano and then building a full production from there. I prefer this second approach.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
I’m inspired by so many artists. I’m a music nerd, so I literally search for new music all day long. It’s an obsession. I’ve always been inspired by Hole, Avril Lavigne, Sum 41, Post Malone, Billie Eilish, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Lana Del Rey, Aidan Bissett, The Kid Laroi, Royal & the Serpent, Halsey, and many more…
What countries would you like to tour? Are there any standout venues you’d like to play in?
I can’t wait to tour the States and Asia. Also South America. My dream venues are British Summer time in Hyde Park, Coachella, Glastonbury. Starting small I can’t wait to headline at The Lexington in London.
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
I would pick ‘Kill My Heart’ for its raw essence. Then, I’d suggest ‘$erotonin Pls’ to get yourself out of the misery, haha.
What ambitions do you have for the band/your career?
I would like to establish myself as a mainstream artist and be known for my artistry and visuals. Slowly growing while enjoying what I do and doing it for the right reasons. I also want to start Djing and produce my own sets. Plus a fashion brand and direct music videos for artists. I wish I could function without sleeping.
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Thank you ‘’…’’ and say the wrong city. Just joking..!
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