INTERVIEW: Tony & The Kiki discuss origins and influences alongside new single ‘Keep Shinin’ On’
After taking an extended break these last few years, New York glam-rockers Tony & The Kiki now make their eagerly-awaited return to deliver their infectious new single ‘Keep Shinin’ On’.
Set to feature on their next EP, which is due out later this year, ‘Keep Shinin’ On’ makes for a stellar return to form for them. So with the new single available now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them over the years.
–
What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?
One Way Or Another by Blondie
Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?
Tina Turner, Blondie, Queen, New York Dolls, Fleetwood Mac (namely Stevie Nicks), Heart, David Bowie, Little Richard, Talking Heads, KISS
Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?
We are influenced by so much and so many! But would say outside of rock, it’s mainly pop, disco, funk & soul.
Cher, Sylvester, Prince, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Donna Summer, George Michael, Grace Jones, Scissor Sisters …to name a few.
What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?
We think a lot about what would absolutely kill in our live show and how we can continue to elevate that experience for the crowd. How we want to feel when we play and how we want the audience to feel and respond.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share?
The feeling of that feedback loop. The crowd and us in a telepathic conversation. Connected and feeding off of each other. Seeing them smile, laugh, dance, or having their minds be blown. It’s all about them having a blast- being transported and lifted in that hour or so.
The most memorable was the first time a crowd sang our lyrics back to us. Truly, no feeling like it. It was so thrilling.
What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?
It’s been cool to have people we admire notice us and give us some attention. People like Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, Cyndi Lauper, Grace Slick and, randomly enough, Fred Durst. We take these moments as little signs that we’re on the right path.
How would you define success as a musician?
Creating music that stands the test of time. Songs that live with people even after we’re gone. Tunes they turn to repeatedly and share with their people.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?
Hone your authenticity. Forget about what’s “in” and just follow your inner compass- your joy and exhilaration. If you love what you create others will too.
–
Watch the video for Tony & The Kiki’s ‘Keep Shinin’ On’ below.