Kneeshake
Exploring transformation, spirituality, and self-empowerment, this interview dives into kneeshake’s “Godstruck,” uncovering the personal breakthroughs, emotional depth, and evolving artistry behind a bold, cinematic sound.
1. “Godstruck” centers on reclaiming personal power and rediscovering inner divinity. What was the defining moment that inspired you to write this track?
I got the idea of Godstruck when -for the first time in my life- I found myself in an extremely happy space. I had gotten out of a horrible depression, I found love, I got my dream job and everything just kinda fell into place. I truly felt like I had been blessed by God. I think all that positive momentum poured itself into the making of the song.
2. You mention that the song reflects a time when you “gave your power away.” How did that period shape both your identity and your approach to music today?
When I said ”giving my power away” I referenced a time in my life where I often doubted myself, felt out of touch or just felt extremely miserable. Now I’m like, well If I only knew how good it would get I could’ve just chilled out? I think those dark periods are very crucial in everyone’s lives to realize what you want more or less of going forward.
3. Sonically, “Godstruck” blends hard production with a cinematic, emotional atmosphere. How did you approach building that balance in the studio?
I’ve always been drawn to very dramatic and cinematic music, one of my first influences was Florence & The Machine. I loved how her music always felt so cathartic, like she was exorcising something out of her into sound. I think I’ve been very influenced by her and other artists like Perfume Genius.
4. Your work often touches on spirituality, identity, and mental health. How do these themes continue to evolve in your artistry as kneeshake grows?
I love writing (and listening) to songs that aren’t about romantic love, or if it is – it has to have some fantastical element to it. I love challenging myself what I can write about in a song. Is it really OK to write and sing about existential dread? About God? Big topics like that really excite me and I hope to continue explore more of that.
5. As a self-taught artist, producer, and actor, how do these different creative outlets influence one another in your overall vision?
I would love to play more live, since I have years of experience on stage I think it would feel very natural to me to expand this project in front of a live audience. I’ve heard my music is very theatrical, but I don’t quite know what that means. Maybe it’s the intensity and the drama of the sounds combined with the lyrics. I would love for a live audience to be as intrigued with the words and story as the music.
6. With “Godstruck” marking another step in your evolution, what can listeners expect next from kneeshake in terms of sound and storytelling?
I’m experimenting with minimalism at the moment, my past three singles have been very epic and grand (which I love!) but something in me would love to explore lesser elements while still maintaining that intensity I really love. I’m definitely continuing leaning into the pop landscape.