House DJ Marc Kinchen, also known as MK, took time out of his current 17 tour to talk to us about his new track and music video for the popular 17.
How long has your new track 17 been in the works?
Since the beginning of the summer. It was in a batch of demos I got, and there was a vocal from a writer named Carla Monroe. I really liked the lyrics and her voice perfectly fit what I was picturing production wise. We released it a month after I finished it.
Where did the inspiration for the track come from?
You’d have to ask Carla that, she wrote the lyrics but I’m pretty sure she was writing about being 17, remembering how great it was being in love and having your friends close.
Your track has been added to Radio 1’s playlist and has now spent 9 weeks in the charts. How do you feel about the great reaction 17 has received?
Honestly, I’m a little speechless. I’ve been doing this for a while now and the reaction has been a little overwhelming, but exciting at the same time to see the fans are feeling it as much as I was when I created it. I don’t know if I’ve ever had one of my own records get on Radio 1, Capital, KISS and Beats 1…. my managers just told me it’s #12 on Shazam UK’s Top 200, really grateful for the support. We’ve also got some great remixes from my buddies CamelPhat, Tchami, and Solardo, with more to come.
When & where did you first drop it live into one of your sets?
Man, it’s been a while – I actually test records out while I work on them, both at shows and on socials. It’s a great way to see what I need to change based on fan reaction. I think the first time I tested a rough version of it was at Pacha Ibiza’s opening party in June, and it felt like the reaction was great.
You’ve just released a music video for 17. Can you give us some insight into the inspiration and story of the video?
We were looking for a video that was as positive, colourful and universal as the song. The label sent us a few treatments, but this one really stood out to me with the cast, dancing and vibe. It felt like the vibe of the song and looked really organic, with real people and real friends. I think this is my favourite video I’ve been involved with, have to thank my management team and label for bringing it in.
Where did you film the video?
Lisbon, Portugal – the dancers are local and are doing a popular local style of dance called Kuduro. I wish I could do that.
How long did it take?
The video was shot over a 2 day period, and the director and editor managed to turn around the final edit in about the same time. They were easy to work with and had a great vision.
Where can we see you playing next?
I’m currently on a US tour with dates coming up in Miami, Dallas, San Diego, Denver, Philly, and Detroit – but I’ll be back in London for my NYE show at Printworks.
Have you got another single on the way?
Working on it! Can’t tell you yet, but more to come early next year. Lots of touring news to come too – have some good things in the works.
Check out the music video for 17 below:
