Embarking on a musical journey was seeded deep into Devin Kennedy’s soul since childhood, which you can hear in his discography’s authentic sounds and blends of genres. Between that, his studying of music, and the ever-changing landscape of the industry, we have a star on our hands!
Not only performing but writing and producing, Devin has been knee-deep in expanding his repertoire, with a new album just on the horizon, and we got a chance to bring you all the deets we possibly could before its June release! Enthrall yourself into your new favorite artist, Devin Kennedy, with the help of our exclusive interview!
Give us a little background on your musical journey, what inspired you to pursue a career in music, and how did you get started in the industry? When did you realize it was what you wanted to do?
My musical journey began with my family’s background and exposure to various artists like The Beatles and Led Zeppelin. My dad always had music playing, and we would play together. In high school, I started playing in bands and writing/producing. Eventually, I went to college to study music and began writing and producing for other artists. Ultimately deciding to pursue my career as a solo artist.
You come from a musical family, with your grandfather and father both involved in music. How has your family’s musical background influenced your own musical journey?
My family’s musical background has been a significant influence, introducing me to all types of music, teaching me instruments, and giving me the freedom to be creative. My family’s support was and still is crucial to my music career.
You graduated from Berklee College of Music. How did your time there impact your growth as a musician? How do you think your education there shaped your approach to music?
Studying at Berklee College of Music exposed me to new genres, diverse musical styles, and talented peers. They encouraged me to be innovative and open-minded, shaping my approach to music.
Your music is often described as a blend of pop, R&B, and alt. Can you tell us more about how you developed your sound and how do you approach combining these different genres in your songwriting?
My sound developed organically through my love for different genres, blending pop, R&B, and alt elements. I approach my songwriting by focusing on authenticity and conveying my emotions, allowing the genre combinations to emerge naturally.
You’ve been compared to artists like John Mayer and Charlie Puth. How do you feel about these comparisons, and who are some of your biggest musical influences? How would you say they’ve helped to shape your own sound?
I’m honored by comparisons to John Mayer and Charlie Puth, two of my biggest influences. I’m also influenced by musicians/songwriters like Bruno Major and Tom Misch, inspiring me to be authentic, innovative, and passionate in my music.
You’ve worked with some big names in the industry, including Ben Platt, Ryan Tedder, and Ester Dean. How have these collaborations influenced your own music? Has there been a collaboration that taught you something you’ve since added to your processes, skill repertoire, etc. when creating music?
Collaborations have taught me valuable lessons, whether it’s a new approach to songwriting or production techniques.
Your EP Poetry featured the track Follow Through, which was used in Charli D’Amelio’s TikTok video promoting her Born Dreamer perfume. How did you react to this unexpected exposure? How does it feel to have your music connect with such a wide audience?
The exposure from Charli D’Amelio’s TikTok video was unexpected and exciting. It feels incredible to have my music connect with a wide audience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my art.
Your upcoming album California Rain is set to release on June 8th. How did you approach creating this album, and what can fans expect from it?
With California Rain, I focused on creating authentic, cohesive, and relatable lyrics and melodies. Fans can expect a moody, darker sound.
Your most recent single is ‘Fine Wine.’ Can you give us a little info on the inspiration behind it?
‘Fine Wine’ is about the connection growing deeper in a relationship over time, inspired by the idea that love gets better with age.
You’re rolling out new singles leading up to the release of your upcoming album, California Rain. Can you give us a preview of what’s to come, and how these singles fit into the larger narrative of the album?
The new singles showcase the album’s emotional range and hint at the overall narrative. They represent different aspects of my life and emotions, contributing to the puzzle that is California Rain.
Your videos often feature visually striking imagery, like the paint splatters in ‘Love You Anymore.’ How do you approach creating the visual elements of your music?
I approach the visual elements of my music by creating unique, complementary videos that capture the song’s emotions and themes.
And ‘As Is’ has been added to several major playlists across streaming platforms, how do you feel about the positive reception to this song?
The positive reception to ‘As Is’ has been gratifying and motivating. I’m thrilled that people are connecting with the song and finding meaning in it.
With your new project on the horizon, what do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I hope my music reflects listeners’ stories and experiences and that they can relate to the emotions and messages I’m conveying. I want to create a community of like-minded people who appreciate authentic and passionate music.
Only two months until we get California Rain and we’re already exercising out fingers to hit that repeat button over and over again! And if it’s anything like the singles we’ve already heard, we just know it will be legendary.
Yes, we know we always have the best new artists to put you on to. It’s kind of our thing. Are you just as excited to hear Devin Kennedy’s new project? What song of his has been stuck in your head? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Want more exclusive interviews? We gotchu covered.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT DEVIN KENNEDY:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER
