KNIGHT$ | PROVING A POINT - An Interview
There are few that have full command of a stage, and fewer still give such a complete performance that the fan leaves the event space having had an incomparable memorable experience.
Step forward James Knights, a "pepsi cola killer" and Britalo Disco dance king who hails from the UK. Brimming with effervescence and a penchant for flair his now legendary show performances together with the innate talent of writing disco anthems make him a must to hear or see, the latter preferred if you happen to be that lucky.
His highly anticipated debut Album 'Dollars & Cents' back in 2019 drew deserved praise from fans and critics alike with Medienkonverter Magazine Germany comparing his music to a "A Thunderstorm of Synth Melody". I couldn't have put it better myself!
Make no mistake about it KNIGHT$ is an electronic force to be reckoned with and Forged in Neon were beyond excited to get the scoop in all his Gelato disco glory. Allow him to hijack your heart, I did!...read on!
Thank you so much James for agreeing to be interviewed today, this interview is a long time coming as I’ve wanted to interview you since forever so thank you so much
Thank you, no worries!
Firstly, Congratulations on the ‘Boom Bang Boom’ Extended Mixes album, what an absolute banger that is! I believe it is coming out on the 8th April, can we look forward to more releases from KNIGHT$ this year?
I’m sure there will be something. I have so many songs in the pipeline, and there’s always
collaborations with other artists who ask me to add vocals on stuff.
Of course, those that know you would be aware of the other project you are involved in ‘Boytronic’ rooted heavily in Italo and based in Germany; how different do you find the two projects? I would imagine both are fulfilling in different ways.
For sure. With Boytronic I was a huge fan, even before I joined them. Musically it’s different to
KNIGHT$. KNIGHT$ is literally all my ideas coming out at once, more concise. I’m not very hands on with Boytronic’s songwriting, as it’s better for Holger to have the majority of the input. What I bring to Boytronic is best experienced live, where we get to play these special songs, reminisce a little, and have a laugh with the audience.
You are an enigmatic front man of that there is no doubt at all, what motivates you to continue making your mark as you do on the scene?
I just absolutely love what I’m doing! It’s taken time to get here, yes, but it’s made me who I am. Every year the show gets better and better, and my audience get me even more you know? I think they are proper music enthusiasts. They know success doesn’t come easily. There are so many charlatans and bedroom artists out there saturating the live arena, it’s rare to have such a strong connection with the audience. I love it!
What do you enjoy most about being a musician?
Being on stage gives me the ultimate thrill! I like to surprise myself and push genres a little. It’s important for me to be as versatile as I can and use my voice without being labelled in a particular scene. I ride solo. I love all the travelling, meeting new people, and trying new foods... It’s a privilege.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
The labelling of artists and music styles. Putting music in boxes. Don’t be afraid to like what you like!
Who have been your main inspirations over the years? I have imagined they have changed through time?
Yes! I grew up on everything! Like Mario Lanza, to Creedence Clear Water Revival, Chas and Dave you name it. With KNIGHT$ I am inspired by tidy n’ tight productions like Scotch, early Madonna stuff, Nermin Niazi etc, with big singers on top, usually female! I love how some voices have no limits, and it’s inspired me to push mine.
Tell us a little about your creative processes, how long on average does it take to lay down a track?
It varies, but I am a perfectionist. I sometimes tell myself that with a live show, you do or say
something and then it’s gone forever... but with recording it has to last a lifetime! So it does take time.
What would be the one cherished memory of your career to date?
So many. Headlining at Montreux Jazz festival is one I won’t forget. Getting to #1 on the Italian Disco Chart with “Shadows” was a real shock, and sharing the stage with Holger Wobker (original Boytronic singer) at his comeback gig in Berlin (2019) was awesome too.
Of your entire discography what one track are you most proud of? Why?
Probably “Gelato”. From start to finish this song came outta nowhere. The timing of it was just right, and inspired so many people to eat more ice cream and try new flavours. I have to be proud of that! One scoop or two?
Can you tell us a little about any current or future projects in the pipeline?
I have a new KNIGHT$ track in the pipeline where I will sing in Italian for the first time! We are working slowly on new Boytronic material, a few songs are finished. You can also check out some recent vocal collabs with Ankomst from Sweden, Bino Biscotti in Austria, and Demokratie in Germany.
What do you like to do to unwind? What is a day off for KNIGHT$ like?
Sleeping, walking, eating curry, drinking red wine, watching bands, and getting more sleep!
A message for your fans....
Thank you for bringing me this far! See you at one of the shows this Summer. I love you all!
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