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 report 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’s also her first new music after settling a yearslong authorized battle with the producer Dr. Luke and splitting together with his label. The one known as “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 on the lookout for a very good 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: Hey.
CHANG: Hey. OK, so if you first heard this music, what did you instantly assume? I am curious.
KHERAJ: So, I awakened 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 buddy, they usually texted again saying, it is like listening to seven songs abruptly. And I believe that is…
CHANG: Like, all combined 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 now we have individuals in pop who’re keen to push the boat out and take a look at one thing new.
CHANG: Yeah, completely. Effectively, , as we stated, 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 observe on one thing known as Kesha Information, on the Fourth of July – what do you assume she’s making an attempt to say right here?
KHERAJ: Effectively, I believe she’s being a bit cheeky, and it’s kind of on the nostril. However I believe she’s saying that I am unbiased. I’ve my freedom. I believe that she’s enjoying 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 data revealed. And I believe what she’s completed right here is she’s preempted that by saying, the music itself isn’t about this, however I do know what you are all on the lookout for. I do know why you are right here.
CHANG: (Laughter) Yeah. Effectively, the Gen Z pop star and actress, Renee Rapp, truly introduced Kesha out throughout her set at Coachella this previous April. What do you assume that claims about how different artists on the market are fascinated about Kesha and her contribution to pop music?
KHERAJ: I believe it exhibits that individuals 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 along 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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