Kicks N Licks is the San Diego based electronic duo that have been making their mark on the scene through their bodacious beats and dedication to the music they love. Composed of Andy Joplin and Jerrod Jordan, Kicks N Licks have produced just about every genre of music and continue to surprise with every release. The ability to produce any type of electronic music is what separates them for your average day producer. They originally started producing drum ‘n bass and dubstep around four years ago and their unique sound has since evolved to create the Kicks N Licks we all love. They’ve performed all across the nation and continually throw down diverse and innovative sets.
The duo has unleashed countless remixes, singles, and even an EP not too long ago. Their single “Sunny Day” was recently released and already has been creating buzz in the industry. The genre crossing track is the definition of fresh and is unlike anything you will hear in today’s electronic world. The upbeat vocals are provided by Desiree Dawson and they blend perfectly with Kicks N Licks’ talented production abilities. The drop is met with well placed drums accompanied by horns that will have you grooving in no time. RaverRafting had the opportunity to talk with Kicks N Licks about their latest track, new music, and opinions on genres. Be sure to check out our exclusive interview below!
Photo: Trevor Rieks
Where does the name Kicks N Licks come from?
Kicks N Licks: The name Kicks N licks was influenced by the song “Licks And Licks” by the reggae artists Israel Vibrations. When we were younger be both listened to a lot of various genres and when it came to deciding on a name Kicks N Licks reflected something we grew up listening to as well as having various musical meanings.
You originally started producing bass tracks, when did you decide to change direction in productions?
It’s safe to say that Dubstep and DNB were the genres that first got us interested in producing. That being said I feel like all artist grow and progress over time. We still consider ourselves bass music producers but over the years have strived to experiment and push ourselves musically. At the end of the day we don’t want to be labeled as a specific genre and want to be able to have a fan base that is accepting of that
Where in California are you based? Do you think the scene out there is more prominent than let’s say, NYC or Miami?
We are currently based and originally from a small town called Encinitas in North County San Diego. The scene is SD is still growing and has a long way to catch up the the famous LA scene. When it comes to comparing the scenes of the two coasts I think they both have their own vibe however at the end of the day both share the love and passion for music which is what really matters!
Any favorite locations to perform at whether it be California or anyone else?
We love performing all over! It’s honestly amazing to be able to travel and share music with people. Atlanta has always been a place that we really enjoy playing and was the first place we ever played out of state so will always be special to us. We could honestly list places all day though!
Your latest single Sunny Day has a pretty unique sound, was there a set or specific type of sound you were going for when producing it? How was it to work with Desiree Dawson?
Sunny Day was started as an instrumental idea about 2 years ago. It was written as just a feel good, vibey idea and wasn’t until desiree Added her amazing vocals that the idea came full circle. When we heard the first demo that she sent we both knew she was a perfect fit for the song!
Do you think artists need to keep striving to find the next big sound in order to separate themselves from constant saturation in the industry?
We think it’s a good thing to acknowledge and understand where the industry is headed and what the next sound is going to be. but it’s important to always to make sure you’re doing what you love and make sure your not letting the industry limit you in doing what you enjoy. We enjoy to try new things and experiment with all types of music and feel that has helped us grow as artists and musicians.
What are your thoughts on artists sticking to one particular genre? Do you think it can take away the creativity an artist has?
At the end of the day we feel that the most important thing is to do what you love and are passionate about. For example if your true passion is to make Dubstep and only that then that’s what you should be doing. It’s really situational and can be different for everyone. For us, stepping out of our comfort zone has helped us a lot and allows us to be more creative and push ourselves musically. But we will never look down on someone for following their passion cause that’s what it’s all about!
What does the future hold in terms of productions and touring from Kicks N Licks?
People can expect a bunch of new original music, Collaborations and remixes, they can also expect to see a new side of what Kicks N Licks and finally hear what we have been working on! We will be announcing more details on this as well as show and tour dates soon! 🙂
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
This is such a tough question! I think if we had to choose one of the top of our heads it would have to be Outkast! We both grew up big fans and will always be!
Connect with Kicks N Licks:
https://www.facebook.com/KicksNLicks
https://twitter.com/KnLOfficial
https://www.instagram.com/kicksnlicks
https://soundcloud.com/kicksnlicks
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