Kevin Knapp is a force to be reckoned with, a musical heavyweight known for his jackin’ house style and lifelong penchant for standout vocals. With releases on Cuttin Headz, Repopulate Mars, Crosstown Rebels, Desert Hearts Records, Hot Creations, Dirtybird, and now his own Plump Recordings, the Texas-bred, Berlin-based DJ taps into a range of early musical influences, from indie rock and golden-era hip hop to tech and minimal house, to create his gritty signature sound.
Kevin is set to perform at this year’s edition of the Dirtybird Campout, which continues to build anticipation for its summer camp for wannabe grownups, announcing the final artist lineup ahead of its eighth edition at the Modesto Reservoir Campgrounds in Central California October 7-9. Newly added names include Claude VonStroke’s Barclay Crenshaw alias, cutting-edge beatmaker and songwriter Mr. Carmack, revered German producer Steve Bug, Brazilian legend DJ Glen, epic UK production duo Audiojack, Atlanta via Detroit flag bearer Ash Lauryn, new face of US minimal Wyatt Marshall, electronic R&B and soul singer-songwriter Life On Planets, and the captivating sounds of Dillon Marinez and more, round out the final phase of additions.
EG caught up with Kevin Knapp ahead of his performance at the Dirtybird Campout to learn more about what he has in store for the special occasion, his latest release, future endeavors, and more.
EG: Hi Kevin! Welcome to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. Where are you based right now? How have things been going this year?
Kevin Knapp: Yo-yo EG! Thanks for having me. I’ve admired what you do in our beloved music community for years. I currently live in Oakland, CA. My partner Hutchtastic and I moved back from Berlin earlier this year. Things are going well! I’ve been loving playing shows in America again and we have a beautiful new home we refer to as ‘Plump Ranch’ that is bringing us all kinds of joy.
EG: Thanks for your kind words about EG, they are really appreciated. That sounds great! Congratulation on your new place! So, Summer’s over now. Any particular highlights from the season?
Kevin Knapp: I really enjoyed my show with Lee Foss in Chicago this summer. Having a chance to play with him in his hometown was special and I felt like the music we brought that night was super on point. I also had a show with the Desert Hearts crew at the Movement opening party that I really enjoyed. The Lovelife Boat Party in San Diego this past 4th of July weekend was also a blast. It’s good to be back!
EG: You are part of the Dirtybird Campout – West Coast 2022 lineup! How excited are you about this one? What can your fans expect from your show?
Kevin Knapp: Dirtybird Campout is one of those golden, cornerstone events each year for me. Over the years, I’ve really focused on and challenged myself to take risks and bring the best set I possibly could. I’m super excited to be playing again this year and to take folks on a journey with me, now that I feel like I’ve built some momentum at the festival. I think per usual, folks can anticipate some irreverent heat, along with some aural textural beauty cuts, when they make sense. I like to serve balanced plates, so to speak.
EG: Are you a fan of any other artists on the lineup? Any friends you’re looking to catch up with?
Kevin Knapp: I’m essentially a fan of almost every other artist! Excited to catch up with CVS, Aundy Crenshaw, MZ Worthy, Baby Weight, Chocolate Sushi, VNSSA, Walker & Royce, Nikki Nair, Lubelski, Wyatt Marshall, and so many others. Too many here to name really! I also really am looking forward to finally catching a Mary Droppinz set, she looks like she has a blast up there!
EG: Also, congratulations on the inclusion of ‘Dope Kid Central’ on the Dirtybird Campout Compilation 2022! What’s this one all about?
Kevin Knapp: Thank you, much appreciated. It’s a track about stepping out your front door with confidence and being prepared to contribute your swag, sense of style, and spirit wherever the road takes you. Everyone deserves a feel-good track for moments when they know they’re crushing it!
EG: In other topics, what are your thoughts on the current state of the scene? What would you like to see more and less of?
Kevin Knapp: More representation from people in ALL walks of life. I feel like that historically is one of house music’s greatest strengths and I’d like to see that celebrated and continued.
“It’s a track about stepping out your front door with confidence and being prepared to contribute your swag, sense of style, and spirit wherever the road takes you. Everyone deserves a feel-good track for moments when they know they’re crushing it!”
EG: What’s next for Kevin Knapp? What particular milestones are you looking forward to now?
Kevin Knapp: I’m excited to get the live events going for our label Plump Records. Now that we are finally settling in back in the USA, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get down to it. They’re coming!
EG: Thank you so much for your time, Kevin! We wish you all the best for the future.
Kevin Knapp: Thanks a bunch! Excited to kick it with all you campers this weekend. Come say hi!!!!
Kevin Knapp will perform at this year’s edition of the Dirtybird Campout. For more info and tickets click here.
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