KC Lights has been a key member of the Toolroom Family for the past five years, releasing six singles and amassing over 100 million streams. He’s established himself as one of the most reliable and exciting young producers in the industry, remixing tracks for big names like MK, Calvin Harris, and David Guetta, and selling out shows worldwide, including a major US tour and numerous Ibiza dates over the summer.
His new single on the label, Fly, is classic KC Lights. Filled with sunshine and positive vibes, his collaboration with the talented Swedish vocalist Welt is a true summer anthem, perfect for lighting up pool parties and dominating radio airwaves.
With the single out now, we caught up with him for a chat.
Growing up on the Isle of Bute, how did your surroundings influence your musical journey, and what initially drew you to electronic music?
Growing up on a small island meant I wasn’t overly influenced by any one genre. I felt free to listen to anything I wanted, and the same applied when writing music.
You’ve mentioned that a trip to Ibiza in your teens was pivotal. Can you share more about that experience and how it shaped your music style?
There’s so much energy and joy that just takes over you there. It’s an uplifting place, and even now, I always leave feeling inspired.
Can you walk us through your creative process when producing a track like “Better Times” or your new single “Fly”? How do you balance your signature house sound with new influences?
I take a bit of what I know and mix it with experimenting with something new. I walked into the session with Låpsley with an idea already, and we transformed it into something much better. Working with amazing talent really pushes you creatively, and that’s where the best music comes from.
You’ve played at iconic venues and festivals like Creamfields and Tomorrowland. Which performance has been the most memorable and why?
Every time I play in Ibiza, it feels pretty special. I also had a “pinch me” moment last year playing at Lollapalooza in Berlin, DJing in the iconic Olympiastadion. Looking out at a stadium like that while you’re on stage is a feeling that stays with you!
How has your sound evolved from your earlier hits like “Girl” to your more recent releases? What have been the major influences driving this evolution?
I don’t even realize that my sound is evolving, to be honest. I’m naturally influenced by new music that’s coming through, along with any new ideas I want to try with my own music.
You’ve been a significant part of the Toolroom Family for the last five years, releasing six singles and accumulating over 100 million streams. How has your relationship with Toolroom influenced your career, and what makes this label a good fit for your music?
Toolroom is a great bunch of really driven and talented people, and that keeps me on my toes, always wanting to push myself to do better.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenges are always the battles you have with yourself. It’s easy to get in your head about the music you’re writing, and the best remedy is escaping for a bit (mentally or physically) and coming back with a fresh mind and enthusiasm for the music.
Your tracks have been supported by big names like Calvin Harris and Skrillex. How does it feel to receive such recognition, and how has it impacted your career?
It always feels amazing getting recognition from the artists you look up to. Most artists experience a lot of self-doubt, so to get validation from the guys at the top means a lot!
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re particularly excited about? What can fans expect from you in the next year?
I have so much new music in the pipeline, more than I’ve ever had, so I’m really excited to start getting it all out there!
What advice would you give to up-and-coming artists who are trying to make their mark in the electronic music scene?
Don’t forget to have fun! The journey is always the most exciting part, and you’ll do well not to take it all too seriously and just enjoy it.
Fly is out now on Toolroom
