Get To Know: UK Solo Artist Kid Apollo

Posted By: Martha Blake
March 10, 2021
Interviews, New Music, Trending

UK gold right here – welcome Kid Apollo. He’s just released his single ‘Shameless’ which is an amazing track. Let’s chat to the man himself…

– Kid Apollo, welcome! How would you describe your sound?

There’s nothing more frustrating than answering a question like this with “well, a mix of everything really”, but honestly, I take a lot from everything. I see the term “genre fluid” being used a lot these days, so I’m gonna use it too. Nothing’s off limits to me as long as it has melody, a groove and a story. The overall vibe is everything. With that said, most of what I’ve released so far is synth-based alt pop with a kind of indie sensibility. It’s melodic but it’s kind of niche also. (Best way to know is to just have a listen, I reckon).

– What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?

Well my studio is currently also my bedroom so I kind of start the working day when I wake up. There’s usually a close shave involving the equipment and a cup of coffee, but other than that it’s pretty drama free. Most of the work just comes from me overthinking, opening and closing Logic about a dozen times in a day and maybe getting 45 minutes of actual solid producing done. When all’s said and done though, I do love it. As long as something gets played or written or mixed, it’s a successful day in my book.

– What do you enjoy about the process of music production?

I love just plugging something in and getting lost in the zone. What you can do with a laptop now is just incredible. You can make a guitar sound like a synth, a piano sound like an engine or make a scratchy vocal recorded with an iPhone sound like it was recorded in a huge cathedral. It’s limitless and very, very fun.

– Who are your three biggest musical inspirations?

First is definitely Damon Albarn. There is, as far as I’m aware, nobody else alive who can swing from Brit Pop, hip/hop, pop music and operas in the space of 30 years and excel at all of them. I think his versatility is really overlooked. Second is probably going to have to be Bowie. If I’m praising Albarn for versatility then I couldn’t not mention the man with the many personas who wrote one of the best songs of all time (“Life On Mars” if you’re wondering) and penned an album and a musical while dealing with terminal cancer. Finally, I’d say St. Vincent is my number 3. Every album she releases is just more and more cohesive, and the songs are all so accessible whilst not really sounding like anything else. Her lyrics just strike you to the core as well. She’s also just a cool lady.

– Who is the best band you’ve ever seen play live?

Here’s a toughy. Well, I have seen Arcade Fire 3 times and each time exceeded the last. Their musicianship is practically unrivalled and their songs are top notch for belting out at the top of your lungs. Euphoric. Nice folks too.

– What’s the toughest part of the industry for you?

It’s so simple, but just making yourself known, really. Every part of the industry has its stresses; mixing and producing is an ever-shifting puzzle, live gigs are always nerve wracking and full of prep, but the thing that seems toughest (whether you’re in a pandemic or not) is just making sure your voice is heard and your releases are taken seriously. It can be quite difficult now that there is so, so much music being put out there at the one time.

– What’s the most enjoyable part of the industry?

I love just making music and savouring that golden feeling you get when an idea or track you’ve been working on just clicks into place. I may be an anomaly but I also really like things like this, doing Q&A’s and talking about all things music, be it with blogs or with fellow musicians. Connecting through talking about music is class!

– Finally, tell us what’s in store for Kid Apollo…

I’m writing and making music every day so I expect more music will be coming throughout the rest of 2021. I’m aiming to release a second EP around the start of the Summer, but at the very least I have a few new singles lined up. I’m also preparing for the return of live music and what the first ever Kid Apollo gig will look and sound like. It should be an exciting few months ahead!

Check out the video for ‘Shameless’ right here: