We started working on my record, and at the age of 17, it was a chance to move to Australia and get into it. I didn’t know if I would have the opportunity, but then I got offered this amazing management contract with my manager, who is now one of my best friends. So, it was always a thing that I had loved to have done, but I didn’t necessarily think I could do it. I was writing songs and picked up a guitar at 13 or 14. JOHNSON: I was doing it from such a young age. KAPLAN: Did you always want to be a musician, or did it just kind of happen? I think it’s going to be a fun, little touring group. I’m looking forward to hanging out with those guys more because they’re so much fun. These are places that I’ve watched live DVDs of some of my favorite bands playing. I’m looking forward to playing some pretty iconic venues like Red Rocks and Merriweather Post Pavilion. What are you most looking forward to on the tour? You’re about to embark upon a tour with Foster the People. A lot of films as well, that I was watching at the time. I also love the Japanese producer Cornelius.
Also, on a more modern tip, I’ve been influenced by the Dirty Projectors and tUnE-yArDs for their uses of amazing vocal work and layering. I also listen to a lot of Stevie Wonder and Rufus Wainwright. JOHNSON: Oh, they range all the way from Prince and Michael Jackson to Minnie Riperton. KAPLAN: Your album is coming out very soon. I jumped at the chance to work with him, and it’s ancient history, as they say. Obviously, that was a really exciting opportunity for me. We didn’t keep in touch for a few years, until he called me and asked me to sing on the song with him. I was a really big fan of his work, and François introduced me. I was working with him on my record at the time, and so was Wally. KIMBRA JOHNSON: I met Wally through a producer called François Tetaz. ILANA KAPLAN: How did you meet Wally (Gotye)?
We spoke with Kimbra Johnson about her signature style, creating an album based on promises, and being naked and covered in body paint. Besides the ubiquitous Gotye duet, Johnson has recently come out with another collaboration, this time with Mark Foster (of Foster the People) and A-Trak, in support of Converse: “ Warrior,” which ties nicely into the tour that Johnson will be embarking upon with Foster the People this summer.
#Warrior kimbra album cover full
Johnson has been making music since her early teens, but really came into her own when she had the chance to move to Australia, where she continued her musical pursuits and was able to produce music that is funky, soulful, and full of fun. The 22-year-old New Zealander is releasing her debut album, Vows, Stateside with five new tracks today. From a hit single with Gotye (“Somebody That I Used To Know”) to playing her first shows in the US, Johnson has been on one wild ride. Kimbra Johnson has had a whirlwind of a year.
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