Kate Klein Talks Industry Struggles, New Music, and Staying Fearless
Kate Klein isn’t here to play nice. The rising alt-pop artist fuses hyperpop, punk, and electronic energy into a sonic whirlwind that thrives on chaos and emotion. Her latest single, ‘FMSB,’ is a high-octane anthem that dives headfirst into reckless abandon and the consequences that follow. Inspired by the cinematic mayhem of Euphoria and Spring Breakers, the track marks an evolution in her artistry, capturing the raw thrill of living on the edge. In this exclusive FAULT Magazine interview, Kate shares insights into her creative process, the influences behind her upcoming EP Love, War and Other Human Inventions, and why honesty remains at the heart of her songwriting.
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Your music blends so many genres—when you sit down to write a song, do you have a clear sonic vision, or is it a chaotic mix that comes together organically?
Kate Klein: I usually have a pretty clear idea of how I want a song to sound. Everything from the kick to the vocal mix. It all starts with a feeling I want to convey, and I hold onto that in mind until the song is packed. Since I produce too, I’m super hands-on with every and make sure that the song stays true to itself. But for FMSB, I kinda switched things up and let my producer, Raf Riley, take the lead and throw in his own ideas also. Honestly, It was pretty cool to open up to different perspectives. When I first brought the demo, It was just guitar arpeggio and my vocals. Then we changed the BPM and key, and I was like ‘’woah okkk’.
FAULT Magazine: ‘FMSB’ is all about chasing the thrill and dealing with the aftermath. Do you find that music helps you process those reckless moments, or does it just amplify them?
Kate Klein: Ah man, sometimes it really hits me- how deep I’m in. This song feels like a therapy session and now that I’m writing an album, I’m stepping back and thinking ‘’Damn Kate, this is pretty dark’’. But that’s the beauty of it. I like to waive in some sarcasm and humor- It keeps the weight from sinking me. I always wanted to live my life like a movie. Turns out I didn’t just watch it- I directed, produced, and threw myself right into the plot.
FAULT Magazine: You mentioned ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Spring Breakers’ as inspirations for ‘FMSB.’ What is it about those chaotic narratives that draw you in creatively?
Kate Klein: Euphoria and Spring Breakers have that same melancholic clash of beauty and chaos, and FMSB lives in that world too. I think It resonates so much with me because I’ve lived it – I’ve seen friends battle addiction, left home early with nothing- no backup, no safety net. I grew up in the block, moved to London to chase my dreams, then went to the US again with nothing and ended up in all kinds of situations. But I’ve made memories I’ll never forget.
FAULT Magazine: What was the defining moment that shifted your sound and artistic identity from all-girl pop-punk to the artist you are today?
Kate Klein: Spending time with my gay friends in Soho was a game-changer. It pulled me into the world of pop culture, catchy hooks and the energy of it all. Then, seeing Halsey live- she had this raw, untamed energy and the way she owes the stage. That moment stayed with me. I’m such a fan. And lately, Brat by Charli XCX, has reignited that Clubby passion in me. It feels like everything’s coming full circle- every era, every influence, all leading me here.
FAULT Magazine: Your lyrics are very honest, is there ever a moment where you hesitate to share something too personal, or do you thrive on vulnerability?
Kate Klein: I love being vulnerable in my lyrics- it takes a lot of honesty with yourself, and that’s not always easy. Storytelling makes it feel even more personal, almost like keeping a diary in the form of music. Every song is a chapter of my life.
FAULT Magazine: What does the title ‘Love, War and Other Human Inventions’ mean to you?
Kate Klein: Romantic love, war and money. Are they just human inventions? That’s the question at the core. All I know is that love can become a war.
FAULT Magazine: How would you rate 2025 so far?
Kate Klein: I’d say a solid 7, but there’s room for a 10. I’ll give full points for chaos.
FAULT Magazine: What is your FAULT?
Kate Klein: Probably leaving my hair straightener on all the time- haha.