NPR’s Ailsa Chang talks with music author and critic Alim Kheraj about Kesha’s first single since splitting from mega-producer Dr. Luke’s file label.
AILSA CHANG, HOST:
Pop star Kesha is marking her personal form of independence day this July Fourth, as she releases her first single on her personal label. It is usually her first new music after settling a yearslong authorized battle with the producer Dr. Luke and splitting along with his label. The one is named “Joyride,” and it is an aptly-titled electro pop celebration of the singer’s newfound freedom.
(SOUNDBITE OF SONG, “JOYRIDE”)
KESHA: Oh, you say you like me. That is humorous. Effectively, so do I. (Singing) Joyride, joyride. I am simply in search of a great time tonight.
CHANG: Alim Kheraj is a music author and critic and is right here to inform us extra in regards to the single. Welcome to ALL THINGS CONSIDERED.
ALIM KHERAJ: Hiya.
CHANG: Hiya. OK, so once you first heard this music, what did you instantly suppose? I am curious.
KHERAJ: So, I wakened this morning, and it was the very first thing that I listened to. And I assumed that it was completely bonkers.
CHANG: Actually? Why?
KHERAJ: And I texted a pal, they usually texted again saying, it is like listening to seven songs unexpectedly. And I believe that is…
CHANG: Like, all blended collectively.
KHERAJ: …Precisely.
CHANG: (Laughter).
KHERAJ: It is a type of Frankensteinian pop masterpiece in my thoughts. It is…
CHANG: Oh, so that you prefer it?
KHERAJ: Oh, I like it. I believe it is thrilling and energetic and adventurous. And I believe it is nice that we now have folks in pop who’re prepared to push the boat out and check out one thing new.
CHANG: Yeah, completely. Effectively, you understand, as we mentioned, that is her first single after splitting with Dr. Luke, whom she had accused of sexual assault, which he denied. So let me ask you, releasing this monitor on one thing known as Kesha Information, on the Fourth of July – what do you suppose she’s making an attempt to say right here?
KHERAJ: Effectively, I believe she’s being a bit cheeky, and it is a bit on the nostril. However I believe she’s saying that I am impartial. I’ve my freedom. I believe that she’s taking part in into the narrative of her profession slightly bit however playfully.
So I believe that, clearly, she is aware of that any music that she places out submit the conclusion of her authorized points with Dr. Luke – she knew that individuals had been going to be analyzing it, dissecting it, seeing if she was going to say something or if there was going to be any info revealed. And I believe what she’s carried out right here is she’s preempted that by saying, the music itself will not be about this, however I do know what you are all in search of. I do know why you are right here.
CHANG: (Laughter) Yeah. Effectively, the Gen Z pop star and actress, Renee Rapp, really introduced Kesha out throughout her set at Coachella this previous April. What do you suppose that claims about how different artists on the market are enthusiastic about Kesha and her contribution to pop music?
KHERAJ: I believe it reveals that persons are appreciative and form of giving Kesha her dues. And I believe it was actually intelligent of Renee Rapp as a result of I believe she is aware of that Kesha’s followers, who – possibly her followers grew up together with her – they had been children when “TiK ToK” got here out. And now they’re adults, they usually’re dancing to “TiK ToK” on an app known as TikTok.
(SOUNDBITE OF SONG, “TIK TOK”)
KESHA: (Singing) Tick tock on the clock, however the celebration do not cease, no.
KHERAJ: And I believe it demonstrates the reverence for Kesha’s place inside popular culture.
CHANG: That’s Alim Kheraj, a music author and critic primarily based within the U.Okay. Thanks a lot for being with us.
KHERAJ: Thanks a lot for having me.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
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