Kennedy One – Urban Rebel PR Interview

A producer, DJ and owner of record label Dark City Music, Kennedy One has made a name for himself over many years within the house and techno realm. With his high-energy, festival-ready signature style he has captured the attention of fellow heavyweights in the scene, and we caught up with him to learn more.

As an artist, how would you describe your sound?

I write in two very different lanes: neoclassical, and then melodic / progressive House & Techno. Both sides still feel connected because they always end up with a cinematic, slightly nostalgic vibe. I tend to write in minor keys and my music usually leans a little sad but somehow still motivating. I also love weaving in organic instruments and a bit of a dystopian feel. Splitting genres is probably not the smartest move in an algorithm world, but I like to write whatever I’m feeling in the moment.

What inspired you to want to create your label Dark City Music?

As an artist you end up learning how to do everything yourself from marketing to distribution and eventually you build a real system around releasing your own music. At the same time I kept finding amazing tracks through promos for my radio show and through Spotify. Vass from Urban Rebel and Nick from Distorted both suggested the idea of starting a label and I loved it immediately. I also love hunting for undiscovered artists so having a label lets me do that and actually help them reach further using what we have built. Honestly, there is so much great music out there. 

With the label, what plans are in the works to grow it even further?

We recently launched Horizons to release more cinematic downtempo music. On the main label, we have build a small community, we’re charting on Beatport and getting some traction across platforms. Now we want to move into showcases and events in 2026. And continuing to level up the brand with some larger names, while still keeping true to the underground roots.

Outside of music, what other passions do you have? How do you enjoy spending your time?

Spending time with my kids is the big one. I am also maniacal about staying healthy…living in LA makes it easy to work out in the garage four times a week and I really need that. I also try to surf twice a week. I am not great but I am getting better and I just love being outside.

What’s on your bucket list as an artist?

Playing my music live with an orchestra. And on the dance side, connecting with a crowd. Performing live feels like the natural next step for me.

What’s your best motivational tip for getting things done?

I am pretty focused in general, perhaps too much so. For me it comes down to small consistent steps. Staying disciplined, moving things forward every day, but that has to start with a more strategic vision. I like to set the goal and then break it down into smaller tasks I can actually get done. I also believe in having mentors who push you – that has been etremely important for me over the last year to level up my game. Cutting alcohol helped clear my mind. And I have some great playlists for focus and motivation to help keep the distractions at bay.

What have been some of your ultimate career highlights?

For me it’s the messages from fans about how the music connects with them. Especially the tracks from Metropolis. Releasing that album was a big moment. It was the first transition I made from ghost writing for film and TV to having something more out in the open for people to see. More recently it has been seeing my music show up in the sets of some of the biggest DJs and producers. This past week alone Nora en Pure, Miss Monique, and Kevin de Vries all playing different unreleased tracks and I am excited for that momentum. Watching the crowd reaction to something you made in a studio by yourself is pretty wild.

Which artist would be a dream collaboration for you?

There are a lot, but I am a huge fan of London Grammar and Hannah’s voice. There is something so emotional and intimate about their music. I would also love to work with Philip Glass. On the dance scene, there are so many great artists to choose from and a few shaping up for 2026.

How would you introduce yourself to someone who is looking to get into your music?

I would probably say something like: if you like emotional, cinematic electronic music you might enjoy what I do. Some tracks are more dance floor focused and some are more for late nights or headphones. I try to write music that feels honest and that has a bit of atmosphere to it. Start anywhere and see what resonates.

Finally, what are you most looking forward to in 2026 and beyond?

I have been working closely with a team to really dial in my sound and direction. I am also releasing music with a much more intentional strategy now and that will continue. You will start seeing more music land on established labels and I will finally be playing live. I have been more of an introverted producer for years, writing and ghost writing, but I do actually love the connection when I play in front of people. So this feels like the right next chapter.

Be sure to follow Kennedy One on Instagram, YouTube and Spotify. His label Dark City Music can also be found on Instagram and YouTube.