Kyan Palmer
After the success of their previous singles, “Unofficial Lover” and “Antisocial Socialites”, pop duo Kyan Palmer and nicopop. are back with a brand new single “Headcase”.
“We want the same thing: to make great pop music. I feel like we have similar taste and writing styles and it just clicks when we work together. We’re always on the same page,” says Palmer.
By creating big pop records with timeless melodies, Kyan Palmer and nicopop. are surely becoming one of the greatest up-and-coming pop artists in the music industry.
“Headcase” is the third single off their upcoming collaborative EP, to be released this summer.
Along with this collaborative project, Palmer is currently working on his new solo project - which will follow his debut album Burn Mona Lisa released in 2018.
“Headcase” is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Christina Boemio
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
Hi! I’m Kyan Palmer. Born in Maryland, grew up in Arizona and I’m currently based in LA.
What's your story?
I started in music behind the scenes working as a rep for a major label. From there I went on to work at a label in New York for a couple years before I decided to relocate to LA to pursue the creative side of music.
Could you describe us a little bit your childhood? Any favorite memories?
I actually grew up playing golf. My dad was very into the sport so I trained for it my whole childhood and I even hit #1 ranking in Arizona before I decided to change directions. I remember going to school at the crack of dawn, playing golf in the Arizona heat until it got dark, doing homework all night, and repeat. It was an interesting path, but it taught me discipline and I’ve applied that to my music career.
If you had to say something to your younger self, what would you say?
I would say follow your gut and get into music earlier. I knew it was something that I was going to end up doing and I was too scared to just get into it. I should’ve hopped in a boy band or something, haha.
Growing up, what were you passionate about?
I think my biggest passion was being the best at whatever I was doing. I’ve always tried to make the best of my situation and have fun with what I had.
When did you start feeling connected to music?
I think the first time I really got connected to music was watching American Idol. That was the first time I really understand what singing was and I was exposed to hundreds of classic pop records that I wouldn’t have heard otherwise.
What did you grow up listening to?
I was raised on 50 Cent and Celine Dion, it depended if I was in my mom or dad’s car. You guess which one liked which.
When did you start writing songs?
I first got into it at the end college. I did my thesis project on the creation and marketing of songs, so I first started writing then. I knew nothing about songwriting, I didn’t have anyone to write songs for me so I just started to write myself.
At what point did you decide to pursue music as a career?
The song I created for my thesis project is the first song I ever wrote and I had to put it out in order to graduate. I didn’t have any real expectations for “Burn Mona Lisa” but it gradually gained attention.
Who was the first person to ever believe in you?
The first person who had credibility in the industry and believed in me was this guy who was the former GM of Motown. He was the first person that really saw something in me and offered me a management deal. Though we have since parted ways, his initial involvement meant a great deal.
You’ve just released "Headcase" with artist/producer nicopop. What's the story behind this song?
This was the second song we ever worked on together. It’s just a really fun summer track and it pushed me out of my comfort zone a little.
How's it like to work with nicopop.? How did you guys meet?
We just got set up by our managers and hit it off. I was wrapping up my EP and he was starting the nicopop. project and I think we helped each other find our sound.
What makes your collaboration work?
We want the same thing: to make great pop music. I feel like we have similar taste and writing styles and it just clicks when we work together. We’re always on the same page.
What do you like the most about "Headcase"?
It’s a mood booster! Every time I put it on I feel better and I feel in the summer spirit.
What can you tell us about the collaborative upcoming EP?
It’s a collection of pop songs. Most of them are upbeat and summery, but there is a song for everyone. It’s definitely a different direction for me, but the collaboration has had big influence on my sound.
"Burn Mona Lisa" is your latest solo project. How would you describe this EP?
It’s dark, moody pop. It was a collection of songs highlighting the ups and downs of the year I was working on the record.
What did you learn about yourself after the release of this album?
I learned that the type of music I make changes over time. 'Burn Mona Lisa' was a phase of music that kickstarted my career and allowed me to express myself artistically, but I’m growing in my sound every day and this next project is very different.
Are you working on a new solo EP/album?
Yes! I’m working on it right now. I’m really excited about it.
What does it mean for you to be an artist?
It means that I get to create something for not only myself, but for the people who relate to my music. I get a lot of messages saying how certain songs impact peoples lives and that means a lot.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
More dogs.
What biggest lessons have you learnt as a human being and as an artist?
I’m learning how to be myself and be comfortable with who I am. I think being an artist is all about expressing yourself and I’m choosing to act how I want to and not worry what people think.
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