After spending the last few months building and cultivating her sound, emerging newcomer Julia Knight is now ready to introduce herself to the world with her vibrant debut single 'Cupid'.
Channelling a wonderfully sweet and uplifting alt-pop direction from start to finish, 'Cupid' makes for a brilliantly inviting introduction to her sound. Filled with fresh and upbeat textures, a shimmering atmosphere, and her own powerful vocal performance at the helm, we can't wait to hear what she has in store for us in the future as well.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has inspired her over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Piano. I was raised very classical, and my parents moved around a lot. However, we always had the piano around, so it was a sort of anchor for me.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Honestly, all kinds. I was very partial to the 70s but I was also raised listening to judeo-arabic music and some french variety.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I ever bought was ‘Life in Cartoon Motion’ by MIKA. I’ll still listen to it sometimes and it always makes me nostalgic in the best way.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Either ‘Right down the line’ by Gerry Rafferty or ‘This land is your land’ by Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I will usually start writing down anything that comes up while looping the instrumentals. Usually the first couple of pages are full of incoherent half-written sentences or concepts, but it helps me organize my thoughts on the moment.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I really like Crystal Murray, RAYE, Hope Tala, Gorillaz, SZA, Bomel, The Kooks, ODIE…I’ve honestly been listening to so many different artists lately and I love my little playlist.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
That’s a tough one. I think I would say Tame Impala. Their music is super different than mine but the energy their songs carry seem incredible live. I would also love to work with female artists. I’m french so I would say Angele is up there too.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I think it’s the flow of it all. When the music feels right, the lyrics feel right and the voice compliments everything really well, it’s a very exciting and peaceful feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I can’t fully compose myself, which is fine, but sometimes I still struggle executing my vision with the skills I have. But I’m learning!
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Let your music go. Once it’s done, don’t hold on to it. I think once you know you have a solid song, you should release it and create something new. Don’t poison a good thing with repetition.
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Julia Knight's new single 'Cupid' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.