Los Angeles-based Indian-American artist KSHMR returns with his newest single, “Happy,” for which he teamed up with Finnish singer and songwriter Tiina to bring life to the powerful lyrics he penned himself.
The resulting record is a complex sonic and emotive journey through the process of trauma, alchemizing to power and peace, combining Tiina’s soulful vocals with dark, powerful chords and fast-paced, globally influenced melodies. True to his form, KSHMR once again creates a seamless production that leaves a lasting impression, and it’s obvious that his original lyrics to “Happy” are written from personal experience. He’s also currently on his North American tour, which includes a unique double show in Los Angeles, and is preparing for his mainstage performance at Ultra Music Festival, where fans can be sure to get to hear “Happy” live. Read on for quotes from the artists themselves about the new release:
“I was excited to get back in the studio with Tiina after making ‘Do Bad Well’ with her years ago. This time, I started us off with some chords in the Phrygian, which is darker and unusual for most dance songs. She began to sing melodies, and the song blossomed from there. The lyrics are about being numbed by trauma and emerging with a twisted sense of zen. I was very happy we could fit that interesting musicality and subject matter into a dance song.” – KSHMR
“To me, the song is about using hard times as fuel and a source of power to get where you wanna go, even if you get lost on the way there. Also, there are always people who are ready to tear you down if you let them, and sometimes you just have to smile through it and not give them the satisfaction of seeing you crumble.” – Tiina
