Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Say Kids is a foursome fusing rock, funk, psychedelia and blues. Founded in 2018 by Peyton Smith, William Cheatham, Oliver Finch and Matt Gay began writing and recording songs from Oliver and Matt’s studio. We sat down for a chat with Say Kids talking about their new single ‘Hootie Hoo’, discovering new music and future plans.
Why did you enter the music industry?
In some way, many of us stumble into the music industry. The coolest thing about manoeuvring your way into the industry are all the awesome people you get to work with along the way. Adding another card to the Rolodex from someone you’ve had the pleasure of working with never gets old.
Can you tell us about your new single ‘Hootie Hoo’?
‘Hootie Hoo’ is something typically shouted during a party when the cops show up or something horrible has happened. A party in LA that two of our members were attending before Say Kids was formed led to the phrase being shouted and the events of that night actually led a couple of the members to quit music for a while before moving to Nashville. A tune was born out of our experiences from that night. We tried our best to highlight the harsh reality of mental illness and the effect it can have on people in our writing.
What was the writing and recording process like?
The writing took place one night after the group played a house party. Oliver (bass) and Peyton (frontman) got together after the show and wrote it. It was like letting lightning out of the bottle and happened very quickly.
The recording process, on the other hand, was prolonged. The group took its time to carefully place every sound in its place. At one point there was even a three-part horn section playing in the song. Creative liberties were taken and the song ended up in the light we had envisioned it in.
Does ‘Hootie Hoo’ have any significant meaning for you?
Absolutely! It is a term that usually carries some weight and insinuates a good time is coming to an end. Whereas, we never know when life (being a good time) will come to an end.
What do you hope people will take from the single?
A slide to the left and a step to the right. The good time should not be taken for granted.
Which is more challenging for you – melody or lyrics?
Lyrics. Melodies set you up for a larger challenge – harmonies.
How do you keep yourself motivated?
By listening to other people’s music. There is nothing more motivating than a community that keeps pushing each other and releasing content. It is a scene that is constantly figuring out how to get their moment to be seen.
How would you describe your sound?
A funky hole in the wall that you listen to.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
From friends, for sure. Go listen to our song and share it if ya dig it!
What does the rest of 2020 hold for Say Kids?
The group plans on getting back into the live scene playing shows once it is safe for everyone involved. In the meantime, the group is going to continue creating and divulging into their sound.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Check out our recent release ‘Hootie Hoo’ available on all streaming platforms. Follow us on Spotify and on Instagram. Thank you for listening and jamming with us!
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