Declan McKenna
Biography
Declan Benedict McKenna, born on December 24, 1998, is an English singer, songwriter, and musician known for his indie rock and glam rock style. He grew up in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, in a large, musically inclined family, which fostered his early interest in music. Citing artists like David Bowie, The Strokes, and Arctic Monkeys as influences, McKenna began writing songs at a young age.
Career Beginnings
In 2015, at the age of 16, McKenna won the Glastonbury Festival's Emerging Talent Competition. This victory brought him significant attention, leading to a record deal with Columbia Records after a bidding war involving over 40 labels. His debut single, "Brazil," self-released in 2014, is a protest song criticizing FIFA and the 2014 World Cup. The song gained viral traction and charted on Sirius XM Radio's Alt Nation and the U.S. Billboard Alternative Songs chart. Following "Brazil," he released other socially and politically charged singles, including "Paracetamol," which addressed the misrepresentation of transgender teens in the media.
What Do You Think About the Car?
McKenna's debut album, "What Do You Think About the Car?", was released on July 21, 2017. It featured his earlier singles, including "Brazil" and "Paracetamol," as well as new tracks like "Humongous" and "The Kids Don't Wanna Come Home." The album showcased his knack for combining upbeat indie-pop melodies with serious lyrical themes. It peaked at number eleven on the UK Albums Chart.
Zeros
His second studio album, "Zeros," was released on September 4, 2020, after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This album marked a stylistic shift, drawing inspiration from 1970s rock, with artists like Bob Dylan and David Bowie being major influences. "Zeros" was a commercial success, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart. Singles from the album include "Beautiful Faces," "The Key to Life on Earth," "Daniel, You're Still a Child," and "Be an Astronaut."
What Happened to the Beach?
McKenna's third album, "What Happened to the Beach?", was released on February 9, 2024. This album sees another evolution in his sound, described as more experimental and playful, with influences from artists like Unknown Mortal Orchestra and St. Vincent. The album was preceded by singles such as "Sympathy" and "Nothing Works." It was produced by Gianluca Buccellati and reflects a more carefree and fun approach to music-making.
Musical Style and Activism
McKenna is recognized for his genre-hopping style, which incorporates elements of indie pop, glam rock, and neo-psychedelia. He is also known for using his music as a platform for activism, addressing various social and political issues. While his early work was more overtly political, he has since begun to draw more from personal experiences for his lyrics. He plays multiple instruments, including guitar, keyboards, and bass, and is supported by a live band on tour.