Devin Kennedy – Happy Yet

By starrymag | March 15, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) In terms of genre, I think I fall somewhere between Pop & R&B. Definitely leaning a little bit harder into the pop side these days.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Happy Yet.”

A) “Happy Yet” is about how internet culture has changed my life over the last few years. I really struggle with comparing myself to others online. It’s unhealthy and it’s something I’m working on.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) I think this is something that almost everyone on social media goes through in some capacity. It’s hard not to ask the question, “Why not me?” when you’re seeing someone else have success. What’s important is remembering that people really only display the positive side of their lives online and it’s unfair to hold yourself to that.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) The video is very visual, but you will definitely see the emotion of the song come through in my performance. This song means a lot to me.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics? 

A) Not always. Every song is different. I’m always searching for that one melody or lyric that will stick with people even after they’re done listening. Sometimes that’s because it’s catchy. Sometimes that’s because it’s relatable/meaningful. The best is when you write something catchy, meaningful and relatable…That’s why I love “Happy Yet” so much.

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music? 

A) A huge hand in it. I’m starting, building, tracking, mixing and producing my songs these days. Maybe I’m a control freak…Oh well. I have some incredible co-producers that I work with that help me with ideas, sounds, and more.

 

Q) What can fans expect from a live Devin Kennedy performance?

A) They can expect an awesome live band that plays well-thought-out and exciting live versions of the songs. They can also expect to get lost in the music. Live if I can get the audience to feel what I feel when I sing the songs, then mission accomplished on my end.

 

Q) Will a full EP or album be on the way in the near future?

A) We’ll see how 2020 pans out. I have a lot of music on the way. My team and I are still figuring out the best way to release it.

 

Q) You won Hollywood Music in Media’s “Best New Emerging Artist” award. How did that make you feel?

A) It felt amazing. What’s crazy to me is when I won that award, I had only had solo music out for 8-10 months. It was really encouraging for me. Definitely a “WOW” moment.

 

Q) Your songs have been featured on a number of playlists. Who are some artists always on your personal playlist?

A) I love John Mayer, Jon Bellion, Lauv, The Weeknd, Bazzi and so many more. These day’s I’m especially a fan of artists who play a heavy role in the creation/production of their music. I feel like I get them and their process.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you? 

A) I love playing in New York City. Something about the city just makes the shows very special. LA will always be home though. Hometown shows are the best.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) John Mayer, let’s gooo! Let’s make this collab happen.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

A) Band wise, I feel like I just jam The 1975 and All Time Low, all the time. I’m getting excited for their new records right now. I’m a huge fan of the branding and music that they’ve put out regardless of album or era. They’re the best.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) It’s the best way to stay connected with everybody who’s listening to the music…and to thank them for being so supportive. I feel like this incredible group of fans is growing and the more we grow the closer we all get. I feel like I can be really honest with these people about my life and what’s going on. It’s very special.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) Thank you thank you thank you. Lots more music coming for you soon.