Kiesza Unplugged: A Journey Beyond The Music
The Canadian musician spoke to us about her new EP.
Today, we are thrilled to be sat with the multi-talented artist Kiesza, whose electrifying blend of Pop, House, and Dance music has captivated audiences across the globe. Bursting onto the scene with her breakout hit Hideaway, Kiesza quickly became a household name, known not only for her infectious melodies but also for her dynamic performances and distinctive style. Beyond her musical prowess, Kiesza’s journey is marked by resilience and determination. From chart-topping singles to ground-breaking collaborations, she continues to evolve as an artist, pushing the boundaries of her craft. Join us as we dive into the mind of this remarkable performer, exploring her creative process, personal experiences, and exciting future projects.
Hey Kiesza, great to speak with you! How’s everything going?
I’m good thanks! How are you? I’m out being rained on currently. I’m in a swamp but it’s wonderful. I know you get a lot of rain in the UK, so I’m guessing it’s not as exciting for you.
I’m good thanks! We surprisingly don’t have any rain here today – so I best make the most out of our one day summer. Hopefully you don’t get too rained on – fingers crossed.
Let’s dive straight into your latest EP, what were your thought processes throughout the creative period?
There was probably no thought to this EP actually. It was more the absence of thought that led to it. It was a feeling of what it was that I needed to put into the world. I let my heart unfold for this one as opposed to imagining what the sound or lyrics would sound like.
Honestly, I love that. As a music student myself I’ve always found that creating something to a brief or an expectation is so much more challenging than allowing yourself creative freedom. My best work comes from within the shower when I’m not thinking at all.
You are very open about your accident that happened a while ago, has that given you a new perspective on life, would you say?
I’ve been through such a healing journey these past six years following the car crash that I was in in 2017. Obviously, I still have brain injuries, but they can take decades to heal — I started getting to the point where I was feeling better again, more me, and was able to turn to dance music once again. When I started coming out again and playing dance music, I quickly realised that I had changed a lot and wasn’t even aware of how much change I’d been through.
What’s difference between this latest release and your previous hit single ‘Hideaway’?
I took time. I think time is really the difference between this music and the music I’ve put out in the past is that everything that followed Hideaway was rushed. Hideaway went so fast it was almost like an explosion. I go from someone unknown to being immersed in the corporate world. Just like that I’m working with labels and they want an album out at a certain date. So I just have a matter of months to write and get out an album that not only goes with the song but goes with what this label likes.
Then obviously after the car crash, I couldn’t really think – due to the head trauma. I had to be easy on myself.
Thankfully you’re doing okay and you’re back doing what you love. So, obviously your latest work is very different to the previous hit. What were your influences?
The hideaway album was very nineties influenced, with some eighties sprinkled on top. For this collection of work, I don’t think I really have a direct influence in regards to music but you could say that I was very influenced by Michael Jackson, my mum was probably one of the most obsessive fans on the planet. Like we’re talking crates and crates of merch all over the house. My dad is Norwegian, so we had ABBA on repeat. They’re not bad influences to have in your life, are they?
Haha, no they are not. I suppose ABBA is a guilty pleasure for all. Well, Kiesza it has been lovely to speak with you today about your latest release and the journey you’ve had getting back to what you love the most.
Crying and Dancing Vol. 1 is out now.