The keen reader might remember Kiki Kramer from a feature we published earlier this year, praising ‘dionysus’ as a “gritty, explosive and intense take on alternative pop”. We stand by our words: despite Kramer’s short catalogue (at least so far), the project has been building a dedicated audience and tons of industry support; that’s exactly what we would expect from the Los Angeles songstress, driving a musical journey that’s a breath of fresh air.
‘prom king’ is the perfect evidence of that. Marking Kramer’s latest single, the track showcases once again Kiki’s lyrical effectiveness and cinematic storytelling, a nostalgic listening experience that will likely relate to a large audience out there. It’s the sort of malleable, evocative song that’s both catchy and elegant, even anthemic at times. Furthermore, ‘prom king’ receives a worthy visual companion in the form of a music video directed by legendary director Marc Klasfeld (Britney Spears, Charli XCX, Katy Perry).
Intrigued by the project, we caught up with Kramer to learn more about her latest release and overall artistry… interview below!
Hey Kiki, thanks for chatting with us! You have been on a roll lately, and 2026 is shaping up to be quite a pivotal year for the project. How does it feel to release music that connects with people all around the globe? 🙂
It feels great! I still have a long way to go, but it’s really nice to finally feel like I’m starting to build a little fan base and recognise regulars who comment on and engage with all of my posts. I’ve especially noticed a difference on YouTube and Instagram.
Your aesthetic is rather unique, with a lot of influences drawn from Japanese kawaii fashion. Where do you see yourself within the cultural zeitgeist? Do you lean more on the futuristic or nostalgic side of things?
I think my goal is to be on my own time. I don’t see myself as futuristic or nostalgic. I definitely draw from the past—especially 2010s Tumblr—but my goal is to reflect the era I’m making art in. I think that’s where true timelessness comes from. Hopefully, years from now, people will be able to look at my work and trace it back to the social, cultural, and political climate that shaped it.
Overall, I love how your music manages to retain a relatable and popular quality without descending too heavily into mainstream territories. You still conserve a certain peculiarity and alternative allure. What are some of your biggest musical influences?
Thank you! That’s definitely the goal. I want to make left-of-centre pop music—something that’s still accessible to a wide audience while remaining innovative and a little edgy. I’d say my biggest influences are Lana Del Rey, MARINA, Lily Allen, Santigold, Katy Perry, Madonna, Britney Spears, Rihanna, and Mars Argo. Honestly, the list goes on forever, but it’s overwhelmingly female pop artists. I’m a real student of pop music. It’s my favourite genre.
Let’s focus on ‘prom king’, your latest single. Compared to ‘dionysus’, the song feels a tad more evocative and even cinematic, touching upon lyrical nostalgia and elegant melodism. In particular, you examine the pattern of clinging to a supposedly triumphant past, perhaps as an escapism strategy. Is there a particular inspiration behind the single?
The inspiration behind the song comes from older men who frequent clubs and refuse to grow up, as well as beautiful young men I’ve met who don’t seem to have much going for them beyond their looks. I became curious about what happens to them as they age. Do they eventually become those older perverts in the club? Were these old perverts in the club once young, beautiful men?
Take us through the creative process behind the record: how do you approach songwriting and production as a whole? Is there a team working alongside you?
I write all my songs myself. That’s really important to me. I’m a control freak, especially when it comes to lyricism. I feel like writing partners typically slow me down, if anything, but maybe I haven’t found the right co-writers yet.
‘prom king’ ships with a thrilling and emotional video, courtesy of legendary director Marc Klasfeld. How did the collaboration with him come along, and did you already have an idea of what you wanted the video to look like?
Yes, I came to Mark with a clear concept already in mind. I wanted the video to evoke Carrie and the cover art for Hole’s Live Through This, but with the genders reversed. He’s the best. He always brings my ideas to life.
NYC is your current home base, a place that’s already inspired and nurtured countless generations of artists. Does such a big city help you stay creative? What are some of your favourite music/art venues?
I love New York City. There’s so much to do here. It’s hard to be bored. My favourite spots include Nightclub 101, Lullaby, The Natural History Museum, Venus in Tokyo, Trailer Park Lounge, Monsieur, all of K-town and Equinox. Oh, and Kiki’s, but it’s sadly closing.
Lastly, what’s next for Kiki Kramer? Everything points towards an EP… am I correct?
Yes! Two EPs: Boys on the Internet, Vol. I and Vol. II. It’s a conceptual project about my obsession with male validation and my journey toward overcoming it by decentering men. The music explores themes of self-objectification, unrequited desire, limerence, cultural conditioning, the male gaze, and compulsive heterosexuality. I hope it resonates with both straight and queer women and encourages girls to reflect on their desires and be honest with themselves.