From TikTok to the Pop Charts: KINGS Releases Her First-Ever Single
TikTok sensation KINGS skyrocketed to stardom with a slew of viral covers—now, with the release of her first-ever original song, “Call Me When You Grow Up,” she’s poised to hit the mainstream. The 19-year-old began performing at age three, eventually moving to Nashville to pursue her dreams of becoming a recording artist. KINGS signed to a management team after less than a year of living there, and she decided to build a social media platform along the way. After posting a TikTok of herself singing a drive-through Starbucks order to the tune of Doja Cat’s “Candy,” she began to gain global attention; the video has garnered 62 million views to date, and she has over 3.4M followers on the app. The past few months have been a whirlwind for the young singer, featuring dozens of influencer collaborations, social media conventions and, now, a new song release. Below, she talks about her venture into original music and hints at what you can expect from her in the future.
Who/what inspired your new single, “Call Me When You Grow Up?”
A boy. As my writers and I were beginning our session, I told them about an idea that I had. I was talking to a boy a couple of months prior, and it wasn’t an ideal situation. He was very confusing and immature, as lots of teenage boys are. Looking back, though, I wouldn’t change a thing because it made this song come together.
Is the vibe of the song similar to covers you typically release on TikTok?
Yes, my style online and in the studio are extremely similar. On TikTok, I sing pop songs that are either trending on the app or on the Billboard Hot 100. My original music is similar to what you hear on pop radio with hints of rock in it. I do like to stay in the pop lane, but I’ve always colored outside the lines when it comes to music.
What was the production process like? Was it difficult because of quarantine?
Thankfully, I recorded the song right before the big corona wave. I was so excited to get in the studio after practicing it for months—I’m always in my element when I’m there and singing all day. The final production process was a lot of work, but it was very rewarding getting to hear months of dedication in a three-minute song. Since quarantine, I’ve had many zoom or FaceTime sessions, and I’m excited to get back in the studio soon.
How would you describe the style of the song? Did any artists/bands influence you when creating it?
It’s a sassy, upbeat tune. I’ve always loved pop songs that empower others, and that’s exactly what I wanted to do with this track. Some of my favorite pop queens are Ariana Grande, Bebe Rexha and Dua Lipa. But even though I mainly sing and write pop, I still listen to all types of music. I pull inspiration from wherever I can.
What is the main message of the single? What do you hope people will take away from listening to it?
It shows how boys can be immature as teenagers, but you shouldn’t lose hope. They do grow up, and eventually, they’re able to handle their emotions and communicate better. This song could be about anyone, so I wanted to demonstrate that if you’re going through something related to the topic, I’m right there with you.
What kind of music can people expect from you in the future?
This is only the beginning, and there’s a lot more music to come. Pop songs are amazing, but I love bending and breaking rules when it comes to my sound. While I’m considered a pop artist, I also love the unexpected.
Listen to “Call Me When You Grow Up” on any streaming platform or digital music store, including Spotify, Apple Music and SoundCloud.
Follow Kings on Social Media:
TikTok: @sheiskings
Instagram: @sheiskings
YouTube: KINGS
Twitter: @sheiskingsmusic