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The Knocks
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The Knocks is an American electronic music duo consisting of Ben "B-Roc" Ruttner and James "JPatt" Patterson. They have released 3 full length albums (HISTORY, New York Narcotic, 55) and 5 EPs (Melody & Silence, Summer Series: 2019, TESTIFY, So Classic, Magic) on record labels Big Beat Records, Neon Gold, Atlantic Records, and their label HeavyRoc Music. They are known for their singles "Classic" ft. Powers, "Ride or Die" ft. Foster the People, and "Bodies" ft. MUNA; their collaborations with Sofi Tukker ("Best Friend"), Purple Disco Machine ("Fireworks"), and ODESZA ("Love Letter"); and their remixes.
Key Information
History
[edit]The duo's name, "The Knocks", refers to the early days in their career when neighbors would knock on their door for playing music too loudly.[1][2] They posted an "Origins" video on YouTube explaining in more detail. Before focusing on their own music and remixes, they produced beats and remixes for Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Mobb Deep, Nicki Minaj, Marina, Flo Rida,[2] Sky Ferreira, Theophilus London, Ellie Goulding, and others.
In 2010, NME magazine named The Knocks as one of the "20 hottest producers in music".[3]
2010–15: Magic, Comfortable and So Classic EPs
[edit]Their single "Make It Better", released in 2010 on Neon Gold Records,[4] was used in the US for a nationally televised Corona campaign.[5] Their 2010 single "Dancing with the DJ" was an instant online success.[citation needed] Philadelphia hip hop band Chiddy Bang sampled The Knocks' "Blackout" for their single "Here We Go" (featuring Q-Tip) from their EP The Preview.[6] Chiddy Bang subsequently sampled The Knocks' "When You've Got Music" and "Dancing with the DJ" for their mixtape Peanut Butter and Swelly.[7] After the success of "Dancing With The DJ", their debut extended play, titled Magic was released in 2011.
In 2012, their cover of "Midnight City" by M83 featuring vocals by Mandy Lee, had 10,000 downloads in its first week on the website SoundCloud.[8] In June, the duo took the number one spot on the website HypeMachine with the track "Learn to Fly", which reached 100,000 plays on SoundCloud within a week of its release.[citation needed] "Geronimo", a collaboration with French producer Fred Falke, was released on Kitsuné Records in July 2012.[9] Later on in November 2012, the duo were featured alongside pop sensation St Lucia in Icona Pop's song "Sun Goes Down", which was released through their debut album Icona Pop. It was later revealed that the song was the duo's very first feature and co-produced track.
Afterwards, the duo released another single, featuring St. Lucia, titled "Modern Hearts", in the beginning of 2013 and earned the group another number-one placing on HypeMachine and reached the 100,000 plays mark on SoundCloud in four days. Within the same year, another single, titled "Comfortable", which featured vocals from X Ambassadors, was released, which was made the lead single of their second extended play, also titled "Comfortable", and was released shortly afterwards. The song also appeared in the 2015 film Focus.[citation needed]
In 2014, The Knocks released a single on Neon Gold Records/Big Beat Records, "Classic", featuring alt-pop duo POWERS.[10] An official video was released that paid homage to video game The Sims.[11][12] After it was released, they released a "Powers Sunset Version" which followed on shortly afterwards. This followed the songs "Dancing with Myself", "Collect My Love", featuring Alex Newell, and "Time" being released in early 2015. These tracks made up their third EP, titled So Classic, which was released in April 2015.[13]
2015–16: 55
[edit]In November 2015, it was reported that The Knocks' debut album, titled 55, was to be released in January 2016, but was delayed to a later date sometime within the early months of the year. 55 features collaborations with Fetty Wap, Cam'ron, Wyclef Jean, Carly Rae Jepsen, Matthew Koma, Magic Man, Alex Newell, POWERS, Phoebe Ryan, Justin Tranter, Walk the Moon, and X Ambassadors.
Work for the album began to show in August 2015, when the single "Classic", released for their So Classic EP, was re-mastered and released as a 2015 re-release, adding new feature vocals from Fetty Wap along with POWERS. Afterwards, the duo went on to uploading a brand new music video for their collaboration with Alex Newell, titled "Collect My Love" and was classed as the second re-release from their So Classic EP. Both songs from the EP were considered to be a part of the new album at the time.
In the late months of 2015, The Knocks released a new single which was the first song outside of the So Classic EP and other projects that they had previously worked on, which sparked much interest about whether or not the duo was working on a new project. It was titled "I Wish (My Taylor Swift)" and was collaborated with Matthew Koma. It was eventually released in September 2015. The trailer for their debut album was released on their YouTube channel in November 2015, announcing it under the title 55. This teased the release of another single, titled "New York City", featuring vocals from Cam'ron, and was released the following month. Also in the same month, they re-released their official video for their 2013 single "Comfortable", featuring vocals from X Ambassadors, which was originally released under their 2013 Comfortable EP, and was classed as being another 2015 re-release.
Afterwards, in 2016, other projects also began to take place, such as their American "Route 55" Tour, which started on 15 January and ended on 13 February. Also, their first remix of the year was also released which was of Taylor Swift's single "Welcome to New York", taken from her album 1989. This was made the last bootleg of their "Summer Bootleg Series" which was released on SoundCloud. Remixes included Carly Rae Jepsen and her single "All That", and Skrillex and Diplo's collaborative single "Where Are Ü Now", featuring Justin Bieber.
Away from the announcements of such projects, before the release of their collaboration with Wyclef Jean, they announced further that the duo were made executive producers for Jean's 2016 album. Their first single of the year, titled "Kiss The Sky", featuring vocals from Wyclef Jean, was released in January 2016. During the premiere of the track, it was reported afterwards that the release date for the debut album 55 was confirmed to be 4 March 2016. This was followed on by the track listings from the album being released with single "Comfortable", featuring X Ambassadors, confirmed to also be on the album. This was also among all tracks from the So Classic EP being confirmed as songs on the album, as well as the collaborations with Matthew, Cam'ron and Wyclef.
During their tour in late January, the duo were interviewed by The Daily Nebraskan, stating news about the album 55. B-Roc, who makes up one half of the duo, stated, "I think the new album is similar to our So Classic EP. That's a good representation of what the album will be like." He also added that, "We didn't get to meet Fetty Wap, but Carly Rae was cool. Every artist we featured we previously had worked with or knew someone who knew them. The label didn't put them on our record; we wanted them on there."[14] After the tour in February, they announced that the duo is hoping to arrange some shows in Europe, but details of that are yet to be revealed.[15]
In mid-February 2016, the duo then released their next song from 55, titled "Best for Last", which features vocals from Walk the Moon. In just under a week after that song was released, the song "Love Me Like That", which features vocals from Carly Rae Jepsen, was made the next single from the album. The day after it was released, Carly Rae Jepsen's management company, "SB Projects", which was run by Scooter Braun, signed the duo to which afterwards they stated that they are "looking forward to this new chapter in our career."
Starting in the turn of the month, the duo launched a video series called "New York Knocks", which features the passers by reactions with songs off of the album 55. The episodes also revealed snippets or teasers of songs from the album.
55 was eventually released on 4 March 2016. On the day of its release, the duo uploaded every remaining unreleased song from the album onto their digital streaming profiles on SoundCloud, Spotify and YouTube. These songs were "The Key", "Dancing With Myself", which is a 2016 re-release of the 2015 version, "Tied To You", featuring vocals from Justin Tranter, "Cinderella", featuring vocals from Magic Man, and "Purple Eyes", featuring vocals from Phoebe Ryan.
2016: Post success and collaborative projects
[edit]After the album's release, it reached number 2 on the US electronic charts.
A week later, the group teased the official video for single "New York City", featuring vocals from Cam'ron; the video was released the following week. It featured footage from the iPhone 6, which was promoted through the video. On the week of the teaser for the video they also premiered the official video for the acoustic version of single "Kiss the Sky", featuring vocals from Wyclef Jean.
At the end of March, the duo's second co-produced track was released (which was the first track co-produced by them since their collaboration with Icona Pop), which was of Wyclef Jean's comeback single "My Girl", featuring vocals from Sasha Mari. At the time, it was planned to be the lead single of Jean's eighth studio album, titled Carnival Vol. III (originally announced as Clefication) which the duo themselves later described as being so similar to their collaboration that they see it as being "a new Knocks album".
When approaching April, the album's success grew as the collaborations with Magic Man, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Wyclef Jean all received promotion from various advertisements and television shows across the US. The group also released two remixes, one of Phoebe Ryan's single "Chronic" and one of Justin Bieber's single "Company" from his 2015 album Purpose, both of which were released on SoundCloud.
Later in the month they announced that they were releasing remixes of songs from their debut album as part of a new project which materialized as their fourth EP, titled 55.5. Originally intended to be released on 29 April 2016, it was ultimately delayed until 24 June 2016. The first track from the EP, "Classic", was teased through SoundCloud shortly after the project's announcement, with the other tracks released periodically leading up to the final release dates.
In May 2016 the group toured with Justin Bieber on the Canadian branch of his Purpose tour, as well as with Ellie Goulding. Shortly after, they announced their collaboration with Norwegian electronic group Lemaitre on their single "We Got U", released on 17 June 2016. On the same day, Wyclef Jean released his second single produced by the group, titled "Hendrix".
In June 2016 the duo embarked on an American tour with The 1975, and on 7 July 2016 announced that 55.5 was expected to be released the following day.
In late August 2016, the duo revealed that they were returning the studio. They revealed on social media that they were collaborating with Carly Rae Jepsen on new material. The group, along with Jack Antonoff and Rami Yacoub, are expected to produce material for Jepsen's upcoming fourth studio album.
2016–17: Testify EP
[edit]In October 2016, Whilst the duo were embarking on their European tour, they announced that a new single, titled "Heat", featuring vocals from X Ambassadors lead singer Sam Nelson Harris, was to be released on 21 October 2016. Upon release, the song was revealed to have been co-written and co-produced by Styalz Fuego. A week after, they conducted a surprise remix of Tove Lo's single "Cool Girl". The remix was released as a surprise track on her second studio album, titled Lady Wood, on 28 October 2016.
In late November 2016, it was revealed that the duo were working on their fifth extended play and that the single "Heat" was the lead single.
Then, in January 2017, they announced that they were going to be collaborating with MNEK on the EP.
On 4 January 2017, they released the trailer for their fifth extended play, which was announced under the title Testify. A couple days later, they announced their second single from the EP, titled "Trouble", featuring Absofacto.
On 21 January 2017, the duo released the official track list of their fifth extended play, confirmed to be released on 3 February 2017. It is expected to feature the likes of Delacey, Tayla Parx, and Jerm, as well as MNEK, Sam Nelson Harris and Absofacto. The EP was later released as planned. Billie Ellish and brother Finneas are credited on the song "Your Eyes."
Later on in the month, it was reported that Patterson is working with Julia Michaels on her debut major-label extended play, entitled Nervous System.
2017–2018: Amelia Airhorn, the Mary Nixons and New York Narcotic
[edit]In June 2017, the Knocks collaborated with Skylar Spence to create a nu-disco project, reminiscent of Skylar's older work, under the moniker "Amelia Airhorn"[16] in which they released their first single "Miracle".[17] The project released their debut mixtape, entitled The Knocks & Skylar Spence Present...Amelia Airhorn, which was released later on in the month.
During the conception of the project, the Knocks announced that they were officially starting production on their next studio album. Rumoured collaborations are with the likes of St. Lucia and Dua Lipa.
On 22 June 2017, their affiliate Wyclef Jean announced the official lead single of his eighth studio album, entitled "What Happened to Love", featuring vocals from dance-pop/nu-disco rapper and songwriter LunchMoney Lewis. The duo were officially labelled as co-writers and producers of the track. This was also when the album's title was confirmed to be The Carnival Vol. III: The Fall & Rise of a Refugee which was scheduled to be released on 15 September 2017.
As of 6 July 2017, the duo have also worked with Levan Kali[18] and Stuart Price,[19] who previously remixed their 2017 single "Trouble", featuring Absofacto.
They have also started a punk-infused band with fellow musician Mat Zo called the Mary Nixons. Their debut single, entitled "Adrian" was released on 14 July 2017.[20]
In August 2017, the duo stated that they were already working on the finishing touches and artwork for the album's lead single. On Twitter, they announced that "it would be the first Knocks single in almost a year when it comes out", succeeding their previous single "Lie", featuring Jerm.
In September 2017, the duo featured on Sofi Tukker's new single "Best Friend", alongside Nervo and Alisa Ueno. The duo teamed up with the group after producing remixes of their recent releases and being in sessions together working on the duo's second album. The song later appeared on the advertisement for the new iPhone X. The single gave the duo their first number one on Billboard's Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart in its January 20, 2018 issue.[21][22]
Later on in the month, the duo posted a digital advertisement in Times Square, New York City on social media as part of the promotion and announcement of their new single, entitled "House Party", in collaboration with renowned production trio Captain Cuts. It was expected to be the lead single off of their second album and was released on 13 October 2017.
On 5 January 2018, the duo announced on social media that they were preparing their second single off of their second yet-to-be-titled album. The song was eventually revealed to be titled "Ride or Die", featuring vocals from indie pop band Foster the People, and was released on 9 March 2018.
On 7 March 2018, they announced their second album, under the title New York Narcotic, which was scheduled for a spring release date. A little while after, it was confirmed on ASCAP that they had recorded new songs with the likes of Sofi Tukker and Method Man which are expected to make the album.
On 29 June 2018, they announced a third single from the album, entitled "Shades", which was co-written alongside Lukas Graham affiliate Morten Pilegaard. Shortly after, that weekend, they announced that the album was finished.
On 17 August 2018, they announced their second studio album under the predicted title New York Narcotic, along with the pre-order. The track list revealed that "House Party" with Captain Cuts was not included on the album and was classified as a non-album single. It was also revealed the album was to feature further contributions from the likes of Big Boi, Sofi Tukker, Sir Sly and Alexis Krauss.
In January 2019, the Knocks embarked on a North American tour featuring a full live band.[23] During this time, they had begun to work with bassist and record producer Blu DeTiger, who was also supporting the Knocks during their tour, with whom the duo contributed to her first two singles "In My Head" and "Mad Love".
2019–present: Summer Series: 2019 EP, solo projects, HISTORY
[edit]In April 2019, it was announced that the duo had worked with Carly Rae Jepsen on her fourth album Dedicated on a song called "Julien", which was released as the album's third single on 19 April 2019. Later in 2019, the Knocks released an EP called Summer Series: 2019, which featured tracks like popular Tiktok song "Lucky Me" and "New York Luau", which was the feature song at the US Open broadcast on ESPN.
In October 2020, the duo announced their first single of their new album "All About You", featuring Foster the People. The song would be featured in TikTok's end of the year "Wrapped" ad and reached #14 on US Alt radio charts.
In June 2021, the duo released the single "Bedroom Eyes" in collaboration with Studio Killers which featured a music video starring Casey Frey. They later featured in a remix of the song by Nathan Barnatt under the persona of Dad Feels.[24]
The Knocks released their third album, HISTORY, on April 29, 2022.[25] The album features MUNA, Mallrat, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Foster the People, Cold War Kids, Parson James, Dragonette, Cannons, Donna Missal, Yoke Lore, and Powers. The music video for "Slow Song" with Dragonette was shot in Mexico City and features Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Aquaria.
The Knocks have had five songs featured in the iconic EA Sports FIFA video game series: "We Got U" with Lemaitre (2017), "Awa Ni" featuring Kah-lo (2020), "Best Friend" with Sofi Tukker, Nervo and Alisa Ueno (2018), "Walking on Water" featuring Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs (2023), and "People" with Kungs (2023). They are the only artists on this year's FIFA 23 Edition with two songs on the soundtrack ("Walking on Water" and "People").
HeavyRoc Music and Black Clay
[edit]Ben Ruttner founded HeavyRoc Music in 2007[26] and has since released debut singles for acts including Sofi Tukker, Blu DeTiger, St. Lucia, and more. In 2017, the label was nominated for a GRAMMY for Best Dance Recording for the song "Drinkee".[27] In 2019, the label expanded to include a partnership with Warner Music Group and now operates under the name Black Clay. Black Clay has released projects for artists including Holiday87 (Ruttner's solo project),[28] James Patterson, and Richie Quake.
Touring
[edit]The band have actively encouraged fans to set up after-parties following their shows where they DJ. Typically these are at colleges, dorms, late night spots or anywhere available.
The Knocks' first US tour was opening for Ellie Goulding. Supporting Dragonette's American/Canadian tour in 2012, they also played alongside Diplo, Justice, Boys Noize, and Knife Party on the Holy Ship!.[9] During 2013, The Knocks began touring with Alex Clare[29][30][31] and commenced a college tour with Grouplove.[32][33]
The Knocks have shared the stage with artists such as The 1975, Justin Bieber [Purpose Tour[34]], DJ Shadow, St. Lucia, Bruno Mars, Chromeo, Deadmau5, Skrillex, Big Boi, M.I.A., Sleigh Bells, Tiesto, Martin Solveig, Weezer, Die Antwoord, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Two Door Cinema Club, and Calvin Harris.[35][36][37][38][39]
The band has performed at festivals around the world, including Wonderfront, Firefly, M3F, Pal Norte, Ultra Miami, All Things Go, Kaaboo, Camp Bisco, Bonanza, Splash House, Shaky Beats, Phoenix Lights, Euphoria, Okeechobee, Outside Lands, Cultivate, Gov Ball, Bonnaroo, Spring Awakening, Sasquatch!, SXSW, CMJ, Hellow Fest, lleSoniq, Wakarusa, Lights All Night, Tomorrowworld, North Coast Music Festival, Kahbang Music & Arts Festival, Veld Music Festival, Osheaga Festival, RBC Blues Festival, Electro Beach, HolyShip!, Foreshore Festival, Monster Bash, Budweiser Made in America, Electric Forest, HARD Haunted Mansion, The Big Chill Festival, Underage Festival.
The Knocks recently finished a North American co-headline tour[40] with Cannons.
Controversy
[edit]Ahead of Daft Punk's 2013 album release Random Access Memories, the band were accused of unmasking Daft Punk with photos of the band playing beer-pong with champagne glasses in Columbia Records' offices.[41] The band responded that they did not take the photos, which were in fact a re-post from another user, and furthermore many pictures of Daft Punk without masks freely and openly exist.
Discography
[edit]- 55 (2016)
- New York Narcotic (2018)
- History (2022)
- Revelation (2025)
References
[edit]- ^ White, Caitlin (August 6, 2012). "The Knocks Speak on 'All We Got' & Jay-Z's Made in America Festival". The Boombox. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ a b Kish, Kris (May 26, 2011). "Interview With James Patterson of The Knocks". The Sights and Sounds. Retrieved October 3, 2013.
- ^ "20 hottest producers in music right now". NME. September 23, 2010. Retrieved October 15, 2010.
- ^ "Gold017: the knocks". Neon Gold. July 13, 2010.
- ^ "Corona - Party Mashup / It Only Gets Better - (2011) :30 (USA)". Adland. April 14, 2011.
- ^ "Chiddy Bang ft. Q-Tip – Here We Go". Hip Hop Update. October 2, 2010. Archived from the original on July 17, 2011. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ "Chiddy Bang - When You've Got Music". ILLROOTS. May 23, 2010.
- ^ Gridley, Hilary (February 9, 2012). "The Knocks (Ft. Mandy Lee) – Midnight City". All Things Go. Archived from the original on May 23, 2012. Retrieved July 23, 2012.
- ^ a b Lonsdale, John (July 23, 2012). "The Knocks and Fred Falke, 'Geronimo'". Rolling Stone.
- ^ "The Knocks – Classic (Ft. Powers)". All Things Go. August 5, 2014. Archived from the original on June 1, 2017. Retrieved November 5, 2014.
- ^ "Video Premiere - Classic". Big Beat. September 16, 2014. Retrieved January 17, 2016.
- ^ Zeichner, Naomi (September 16, 2014). "The Knocks Did A Live Action Version Of The Sims For A Music Video". BuzzFeed. Retrieved January 17, 2016.
- ^ Carley, Brennan (April 6, 2015). "The Knocks Deliver Timeless Dance-Pop Throwbacks on Their New 'So Classic' EP". Spin. Retrieved January 17, 2016.
- ^ Finn, Keith (January 26, 2016). "EDM group The Knocks to play in Lincoln Friday". The Daily Nebraskan. Retrieved January 26, 2016.
- ^ O'Brien, Brittany (February 12, 2016). "Photos & Interview: The Knocks at the Independent, a story of fate, dance, and wild shows". The Bay Bridged - San Francisco Bay Area Indie Music. Retrieved February 14, 2016.
- ^ "The Knocks & Skylar Spence Present...Amelia Airhorn". YouTube. June 19, 2017. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021. Retrieved April 9, 2020.
- ^ "Amelia Airhorn - Miracle". YouTube. June 2017. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021. Retrieved April 9, 2020.
- ^ The Knocks [@theknocks] (July 2, 2017). "Sunday Songs with @LevenKali" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ The Knocks [@theknocks] (July 6, 2017). "S T U A R T P R I C E" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ The Knocks [@theknocks] (July 10, 2017). "We started a 'punk' band with our dude @Mat_Zo and our song comes out Friday 🌴" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ Dance/Mix Show Airplay (January 20, 2018) from Billboard (retrieved January 17, 2018)
- ^ “Sofi Tukker Score First Billboard No. 1 With 'Best Friend'” from Billboard (January 18, 2018)
- ^ "The Knocks announces 2019 tour dates". AXS. Retrieved January 29, 2019.
- ^ "Bedroom Eyes (Dad Feels x JAMATAR) (feat. The Knocks & Studio Killers) [Remix]". Bandcamp. October 27, 2021. Retrieved October 27, 2021.
- ^ HISTORY by The Knocks, April 29, 2022, retrieved May 10, 2022
- ^ Williams, Nick (September 30, 2015). "The Knocks' B-Roc Talks the Evolution of His HeavyRoc Imprint & New Signee SOFI TUKKER". Billboard. Retrieved May 12, 2022.
- ^ "Sofi Tukker". www.grammy.com. Grammy Awards. Archived from the original on May 12, 2022. Retrieved May 9, 2023.
- ^ "The Knocks' Benjamin Ruttner Announces Solo Album Holiday87 and Releases Lost, its First Single and Accompanying Video". Forbes.
- ^ The Knocks (April 15, 2013). "Kicking off our tour with Alex Clare..." Facebook. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ "Alex Clare with The Knocks at the Crofoot Ballroom". The Crofoot. May 7, 2013. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ Slice, Kymbo (April 29, 2013). "The Knocks + Alex Clare at Mr. Smalls". Nak You Out. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ "Going on a small college tour". The Knocks. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ "Grouplove's Campus Consciousness Tour". Student Programming Board. Colby University. November 19, 2013. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ The Knocks Purpose Tour Europe: Episode 1, October 2, 2016, retrieved May 10, 2022
- ^ Maness, Carter (September 10, 2010). "Big Boi Surprises NYU Student Body". The Boombox. Retrieved October 15, 2010.
- ^ "The Knocks playing NYU Mystery Concert, CMJ w/ Holy Ghost! who play PS1 Saturday & other dates". Brooklyn Vegan. September 2, 2010. Retrieved October 15, 2010.
- ^ "Watch now: The Knocks "Make It Better"". .timeoutny.com. October 8, 2010. Retrieved October 15, 2010.
- ^ "The Knocks Will Knock Around Europe and Beyond with New Tour Dates". Sentimentalist. November 3, 2010. Retrieved January 26, 2010.
- ^ "The Knocks Live Debut in NYC w/Holy Ghost & UK Dates with Sleigh Bells". HeavyRoc Music. October 6, 2010. Archived from the original on July 11, 2011. Retrieved January 27, 2016.
- ^ "The Knocks on Instagram: "TOUR ANNOUNCEMENT!! Very very excited to announce our tour with the homies @cannonstheband! Tickets on-sale Friday. This tour will feature…"". Instagram. Retrieved May 10, 2022.
- ^ Ross, Winston (June 6, 2013). "Daft Punk Mystery Solved". The Daily Beast. Retrieved October 3, 2013.
External links
[edit]The Knocks
View on GrokipediaFormation and early career
Origins and members
The Knocks were formed in New York City in 2008 by Ben "B-Roc" Ruttner and James "JPatt" Patterson, who met as 19-year-old students at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.[11] Ruttner, originally from New Hampshire, had developed an early interest in electronic music through DJing at local clubs while studying in the city.[12] Patterson, raised in the Bronx after attending high school in Connecticut, brought a foundation in music production, remixing, and drumming to their collaboration.[13] The duo quickly bonded as roommates after connecting in a late-night studio session, united by a shared passion for electronic genres including house and disco, which would shape their sound.[14][5] They relocated to a modest East Village apartment, where they established separate home recording studios in their bedrooms to experiment collaboratively.[11] The group's name originated from the frequent complaints by neighbors, who would knock on their door due to the loud music sessions during these early experiments.[15]Initial productions and recognition
The Knocks gained early traction in the music industry through a series of high-profile remixes that highlighted their knack for blending electronic grooves with pop sensibilities. In 2008, they delivered a remix of Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl," transforming the track with pulsating synths and upbeat rhythms that amplified its dancefloor appeal.[16] The following year, 2009, saw them remix Britney Spears' "3," an extended club version that smoothed out the original's edges with layered production and infectious beats, earning official release as part of Spears' remix package.[17] These efforts, along with remixes for Passion Pit's "Sleepyhead," positioned the duo as go-to remixers for major pop and indie acts.[16] Building on this momentum, The Knocks expanded into original productions, earning credits on projects for emerging artists like Chiddy Bang, who sampled their beat "Blackout" for their mixtape.[16] Their own initial singles further solidified their sound, starting with the upbeat "Dancing with the DJ" in 2010, a sun-soaked track that captured their retro-futuristic vibe.[18] These releases demonstrated their shift from behind-the-scenes work to front-facing electronic pop.[16] That same year, their rising profile culminated in acclaim from NME magazine, which listed The Knocks among the "20 hottest producers in music," praising their innovative fusion of disco, funk, and modern electronica.[16] However, breaking through in New York's competitive electronic scene proved challenging; operating from a cramped East Village apartment, the duo frequently dealt with noise complaints from neighbors disturbed by their late-night sessions, a frustration that ironically inspired their moniker "The Knocks."[19] This environment tested their resilience amid a city music landscape dominated by indie rock and hip-hop, where electronic acts like theirs had to hustle for visibility through underground remixes and word-of-mouth buzz.[20]Musical career
2010–2015: Debut EPs and rising profile
In 2011, The Knocks released their debut EP, Magic, on A&M Octone Records, marking their entry into the electronic music landscape with a collection of upbeat, disco-infused tracks. The six-song project featured collaborations such as "Magic" with Gary Go and "Dancing with the DJ," which showcased the duo's knack for blending nostalgic house elements with contemporary pop sensibilities, earning initial buzz in indie electronic circles.[21][22] Building on this foundation, The Knocks issued the Comfortable EP in 2014 via Neon Gold Records, expanding their collaborative approach with features from artists like X Ambassadors on the title track and Ra Ra Riot on "House of Love." The EP's lead single, "Comfortable," highlighted their evolving production style, incorporating soulful vocals and infectious grooves that resonated in the burgeoning indie dance scene. This release followed their early remix work, which had already helped cultivate a dedicated online following.[23][24][25] The duo's profile continued to rise with the 2014 single "Classic" featuring POWERS, a vibrant track that captured summer nostalgia and became a staple in electronic playlists, further solidifying their presence on platforms like SoundCloud. This momentum led to the So Classic EP in April 2015, also on Neon Gold/Big Beat Records, which included reworked versions like "Classic" with Fetty Wap alongside originals such as "Dancing with Myself" and "Collect My Love" featuring Alex Newell. The EP received praise for its timeless dance-pop vibe, positioning The Knocks as emerging tastemakers.[26][27] During this period, The Knocks expanded their fanbase through strategic digital outreach and live appearances, uploading tracks and remixes to SoundCloud to engage early supporters and secure placements on influential playlists. Their live energy shone at festivals like Ultra Music Festival in 2012 and Osheaga in 2013, where performances drew growing crowds and media nods for their high-energy sets, helping transition them from underground remixers to a rising indie electronic act.[28][29][30]2016–2018: Debut album, collaborations, and side projects
In 2016, The Knocks released their debut full-length album, 55, on March 4 through Big Beat Records and Neon Gold Records, distributed by Atlantic Records.[31] The album featured a range of collaborations with prominent artists, including Foster the People on the track "Ride or Die," which highlighted the duo's signature upbeat, synth-driven sound blended with indie pop elements. Other notable features included Cam'ron on "New York City," Wyclef Jean on "Kiss the Sky," Carly Rae Jepsen on "Love Me Like That," and X Ambassadors on "Comfortable," showcasing their ability to merge electronic production with diverse vocal talents.[32] This release marked a significant step in their mainstream crossover, building on the momentum from their earlier EPs.[33] Following 55, The Knocks issued the Testify EP on February 3, 2017, also via Big Beat and Neon Gold.[34] The EP included four tracks with guest vocalists, emphasizing their collaborative approach: "Worship" featuring MNEK, "Heat" featuring Sam Nelson Harris, "Trouble" featuring Absofacto, and "Feel Love" featuring Dragonette.[35] Lead single "Trouble," released on January 12, 2017, captured a bouncy electro-pop vibe with Absofacto's manipulated vocals over a funky groove, serving as a precursor to their evolving production style.[34] "Heat," dropped on October 20, 2016, further exemplified their knack for infectious, dance-oriented hooks.[35] During this period, The Knocks explored pseudonymous side projects to experiment beyond their core sound. In June 2017, they partnered with producer Skylar Spence to form Amelia Airhorn, releasing a free sample-based mixtape that delved into future funk and nu-disco through conceptual, plunderphonic tracks inspired by New York City soundscapes.[36] Later that July, they collaborated with Mat Zo under the alias The Mary Nixons, launching with the tropical house single "Adrian," which combined shimmering synths and upbeat rhythms to create a lighter, summery alter-ego.[37] These ventures allowed the duo to push electronic boundaries while maintaining their collaborative ethos. The period culminated in the release of their second studio album, New York Narcotic, on September 28, 2018, via Big Beat and Neon Gold.[38] Conceived as a concept record narrating their personal relationship with New York City—from its energetic highs to nostalgic lows—the album incorporated city-inspired elements like urban samples and storytelling lyrics across 14 tracks.[39] Features such as Big Boi on "Big Bills" and Sleigh Bells' Alexis Krauss on "NYC" underscored the thematic focus on the city's cultural melting pot.[38] This project solidified their initial major label partnership, which began with the 2016 signing to Big Beat/Atlantic, enabling broader distribution and high-profile integrations.[33]2019–2022: Independent releases and HISTORY
In 2019, The Knocks transitioned toward more independent creative explorations with the release of their EP Summer Series: 2019 on December 6 via Big Beat Records. The six-track project captured upbeat, summery electronic vibes through collaborations such as "Awa Ni" with Kah-Lo and "Lucky Me" featuring Great Good Fine Ok, emphasizing danceable rhythms and feel-good energy to connect with listeners during the warmer months.[40][41] The EP's lead single "Lucky Me" gained significant traction on social media platforms like TikTok, boosting fan engagement with its infectious hooks and relatable lyrics about good fortune in love.[42] Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben Ruttner pursued solo endeavors, launching the alias Holiday87 and releasing a self-titled debut album in December 2020 on his newly established Black Clay label in partnership with ADA/Warner Music Group. The 13-track record blended dreamy synth-pop and nostalgic electronic elements, marking a softer, more introspective departure from The Knocks' typical sound while showcasing Ruttner's production versatility through songs like "Lost" and "Daybreak" featuring his duo partners.[43][44] This independent venture highlighted Ruttner's growing role in label curation during a period when live performances were halted. The pandemic further shaped The Knocks' output, shifting focus to virtual collaborations and streaming-centric releases as in-person sessions became impossible; for instance, the single "River" featuring Parson James was conceived during lockdown isolation.[45] This period built momentum toward their third studio album HISTORY, a deluxe 22-track collaborative LP released on April 29, 2022, via Big Beat Records, which served as a reflective anthology of their decade-long career through reworkings of past hits and new material. Featuring artists like MUNA on "Bodies," Foster the People on "All About You," Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs on "Walking on Water," Mallrat on "R U HIGH," Dragonette on "Slow Song," and Cold War Kids on "Nobody But Me," the album drew from prior partnerships to create a nostalgic yet forward-looking electronic tapestry.[46][47]2023–present: Revelation and ongoing work
In 2023, The Knocks began teasing new material following their 2022 album HISTORY, with the release of the single "One On One" in collaboration with SOFI TUKKER, marking a return to upbeat electronic dance tracks infused with house influences.[48] This was followed by additional standalone releases, including "Better Days" featuring King Garbage, which showcased their continued exploration of collaborative pop production.[49] These efforts highlighted their evolving sound, blending nostalgic disco elements with modern synth textures while maintaining their signature carefree energy.[5] The duo's most significant project in this period culminated in the collaborative album Revelation with Dragonette, developed over several years as a follow-up to their collaboration "Slow Song" with Dragonette, the Paul Woolford remix of which earned a 2023 Grammy nomination for Best Remixed Recording.[50] Released on June 6, 2025, via Neon Gold Records, the nine-track LP revives classic synth-pop aesthetics through infectious hooks and vibrant production, drawing from 1980s influences while incorporating electronic and dance-pop elements for a fresh revival.[51][52] Key tracks include the title song "Revelation," the upbeat "Love Me Alive," and a cover of Pete Townshend's "Let My Love Open The Door," which exemplifies the album's thematic focus on emotional openness and euphoric escapism.[53] The project earned praise for its seamless blend of the artists' strengths, achieving multi-platinum status for the duo's overall catalog and reinforcing their reputation as Grammy-nominated producers.[54][55] Amid these releases, The Knocks continued ongoing productions, including DJ mixes such as Summertime Sounds 2025, which curated their discography alongside new remixes to support live performances and festival appearances.[56] Their multi-platinum sales milestones, accumulated from hits like those on Revelation, underscore their commercial impact in the electronic music scene, with the album contributing to renewed streaming success.[57] In interviews, the duo has hinted at potential solo expansions and further label ventures under HeavyRoc Music, emphasizing a focus on nurturing emerging talent while exploring live touring opportunities into 2026.[6]Musical style and influences
Core sound and evolution
The Knocks' core sound is characterized by an eclectic fusion of disco, house, hip-hop, and pop elements, resulting in upbeat, carefree dance music that evokes a sense of joyful escapism. Drawing heavily from New York City's vibrant urban energy, their tracks often feature pulsating basslines, infectious hooks, and nostalgic synths layered over modern production techniques, creating a signature "modern-retro" electronica style that bridges 1970s disco grooves with contemporary indie dance. This blend is influenced by pioneering acts like Daft Punk and Calvin Harris, as well as NYC icons such as The Strokes and Kanye West, infusing their music with a street-smart, cosmopolitan edge that prioritizes rhythmic drive and melodic accessibility.[1][5][58] From their inception, The Knocks evolved from remix-heavy productions in the late 2000s—where they reinterpreted tracks by artists like Jay-Z and Britney Spears with funky, dance-oriented twists—to original compositions that emphasized a more personal and vocal-driven approach. Early works maintained a producer-centric focus, emphasizing instrumental builds and high-energy remixes, but by their 2018 album New York Narcotic, they incorporated JPatt's vocals and introspective lyrics, marking a shift toward mature, emotionally resonant synth-pop. This progression continued into later releases like HISTORY (2022), which leaned into nostalgic funk and indie elements, and their 2025 collaboration Revelation, blending retro-futuristic synths with genre-blurring hooks for a more refined, collaborative maturity.[1][58][59] Critics have praised this evolution for its ability to revitalize disco and house traditions within an electronic framework, positioning The Knocks as key architects of a "new disco era" that balances timeless vibes with forward-thinking innovation. Their consistent use of upbeat tempos and urban-inspired sounds has been lauded for capturing the carefree spirit of nightlife while adapting to shifting pop landscapes, earning them recognition as multi-platinum producers who maintain an authentic, groove-heavy identity.[39][46][58]Key collaborations and production techniques
The Knocks, consisting of Ben Ruttner and James Patterson, employ a production style that blends layered synthesizers with live instrumentation to create a lush, groove-oriented sound. They frequently use hardware synths such as the Roland Juno-106 and Moog Little Phatty alongside software like Ableton Live, incorporating unquantized basslines and delays to achieve a "dirty yet tight" texture that balances analog warmth with digital precision.[60] This approach extends to their co-writing process, where they collaborate closely with vocalists in the studio, often starting with instrumental grooves and iteratively refining lyrics and arrangements to ensure vocals cut through dense mixes using tools like the Waves Diamond Bundle for compression.[60] Their key collaborations highlight a versatility spanning major pop remixes and indie features, shaping their output toward infectious, dancefloor-ready tracks. Early remixes for artists like Katy Perry and Jay-Z established their reputation for infusing electronic elements into mainstream hits, while features with indie acts such as Sofi Tukker on "Best Friend" and MUNA on "Bodies" demonstrate their ability to co-produce vibrant, collaborative pop-disco hybrids.[3][58] These partnerships often occur in immersive sessions, as seen in the production of their 2022 album History, where in-person writing with Foster the People on "All About You" emphasized flexible lyric contributions to prioritize song quality.[58] The duo's involvement in Grammy-nominated work underscores the impact of their techniques, particularly their 2023 nomination for Best Remixed Recording for Paul Woolford's remix of "Slow Song" (with Dragonette), which layered euphoric synth builds over the original to amplify its emotional drive.[7] Such collaborations influence their broader catalog by introducing diverse vocal styles and thematic depth, evolving their sound from pure electronic to genre-blending productions.[58] Their studio setup has evolved from a makeshift apartment space in the late 2000s, where they experimented with local rappers using basic gear, to the professional HeavyRoc Studios in Manhattan by 2016, equipped with Neumann U87 mics and Empirical Labs compressors for polished recordings.[3][60] A pre-pandemic rented LA house session contributed initial ideas for History, with post-pandemic work shifting to remote and home-based environments to foster a more organic workflow that integrates daily life with music creation and enhances collaborative intimacy.[58]Business ventures
HeavyRoc Music
HeavyRoc Music is an independent record label and recording studio founded in 2007 by Ben "B-Roc" Ruttner, one half of the electronic music duo The Knocks, in New York City's Lower East Side.[9][61] Initially established as a creative hub in the basement of the former Beastie Boys rehearsal space, it served as a platform for Ruttner and his production partner James "JPatt" Patterson to manage their early projects while fostering a collaborative environment for like-minded artists.[61][33] The label operated under Ruttner's direction alongside managers Rene Symonds and Huck Kwong, prioritizing hands-on involvement in recording and artist nurturing during The Knocks' formative years.[62] In its early phase, HeavyRoc functioned as a boutique imprint for The Knocks' initial output, releasing key singles that marked their transition from remixers to original producers. Notable releases include the promotional single "Blackout" in 2010 and the follow-up "Dancing With the DJ," both issued on CD formats under the label's catalog numbers HRM001 and subsequent entries.[62] These tracks exemplified the duo's emerging nu-disco sound and helped build their profile before major label deals, with HeavyRoc handling distribution and promotion independently to maintain artistic autonomy. While later albums like 55 (2016) and New York Narcotic (2018) were primarily distributed through Big Beat and Neon Gold, HeavyRoc contributed to select components, such as promotional materials and remix sessions tied to those projects.[31][63] The label's business model centered on creative control and long-term artist development, allowing The Knocks to experiment without external pressures while scouting and signing emerging talent for debut releases. This approach emphasized studio-based collaboration and organic growth over rapid commercialization, enabling the duo to refine their production techniques and network within New York's indie electronic scene.[9] HeavyRoc's role extended to early career management, providing infrastructure for live sessions like the "HeavyRoc TV" mixtape series in 2013, which showcased their DJ sets and built fan engagement.[64] Key signings under HeavyRoc highlighted its focus on innovative electronic and indie acts, including the debut single for Sofi Tukker in 2015, which propelled the duo to wider recognition through partnerships with larger networks.[9] Other notable artists included St. Lucia, Alex Winston, Blu DeTiger, and Purple Disco Machine, whose early works benefited from the label's intimate support structure. Although primarily independent, HeavyRoc facilitated selective partnerships with major entities like Atlantic Records for distribution amplification, bridging the duo's indie roots with broader industry access without relinquishing core decision-making. This model supported The Knocks' shift from major label affiliations back to self-management, underscoring HeavyRoc's enduring emphasis on artist empowerment.[62][65]Black Clay label
Black Clay is an independent record label founded by The Knocks in 2020 as an electronic music imprint in partnership with ADA, the independent distribution arm of Warner Music Group, aimed at supporting a broader roster of artists beyond the duo's primary output.[43][66][65] This venture evolved from their earlier HeavyRoc Music imprint, expanding its scope to emphasize independence and experimental projects. The label debuted with Ben Ruttner's solo project Holiday87, releasing a self-titled 13-track album in December 2020 that showcased vaporwave-inspired synth-pop and nostalgic electronic sounds as an outlet for personal experimentation outside The Knocks' duo dynamic.[43][12] The lead single "Lost It," accompanied by a retro-futuristic music video, marked the imprint's initial foray into solo endeavors, highlighting Ruttner's production versatility.[66] Following this launch, Black Clay facilitated subsequent independent releases, including The Knocks' 2023 single "I Promise," a sun-soaked house track designed for summer playlists and distributed amid post-pandemic recovery in live music scenes.[67] The label also played a role in distributing and promoting summer-themed content, such as extensions of their 2019 Summer Series EP tracks, adapting to virtual and limited in-person events during the COVID-19 era before broader physical rollouts.[41] Black Clay has grown to support innovative electronic acts like Blu DeTiger, Sofi Tukker, and St. Lucia.[68] This expansion underscores the label's role in fostering experimental and collaborative work within the indie electronic landscape.Touring and live performances
Major tours and festivals
Following the release of their debut album 55 in March 2016, The Knocks launched their first significant European tour, known as the Purpose Tour, spanning October to December and covering cities including Paris, Oslo, Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Antwerp, London, Frankfurt, and Bologna.[69] Concurrently, they supported Justin Bieber on select North American dates of his Purpose World Tour, marking an early milestone in their live performance career across the US.[70] These outings established their presence in both continents, blending high-energy electronic sets with collaborative elements that resonated with diverse audiences. In early 2017, The Knocks announced and executed a headlining North American tour, building on the momentum from 55 and their EP Testify, with stops in major US cities to showcase their evolving dance-pop sound.[71] From 2017 onward, they secured prominent festival slots, including performances at Electric Daisy Carnival events organized by Insomniac, Palm Tree Music Festival in 2023, Lollapalooza Chicago in August 2023—where they shared the stage with collaborators like Dragonette—and Electric Forest in June 2025.[68][72][73][74] These appearances highlighted their global appeal within the electronic music festival circuit. In August 2025, they performed at Truckee Music Fest in Truckee, California.[75] The release of HISTORY in April 2022 prompted a dedicated fall headlining tour across North America, featuring venues like The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles and The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, emphasizing tracks from the album alongside fan favorites.[76] By 2024, their international footprint grew with performances in Sydney, Australia, and Queenstown, New Zealand, extending their reach beyond North America and Europe.[30] In November 2025, they appeared at EDC Orlando at Tinker Field.[77] In 2025, ahead of Revelation's full rollout, they announced promotional live album performances, including Revelation LIVE at The Belasco in Los Angeles on December 10 and a collaborative event with Dragonette and Aquaria at Irving Plaza in New York on December 13.[78]Live production and setlists
The Knocks' live productions emphasize high-energy electronic dance performances, featuring a dynamic stage setup with live instrumentation including vocals, electric guitar, keyboards, and percussion, which the duo alternates between to create an immersive experience.[79] Video screens positioned behind the performers display synchronized visuals, complemented by colorful, dancing lights that enhance the vibrant atmosphere and keep the crowd engaged throughout the set.[80] This setup contributes to their reputation for delivering non-stop dance parties, where the duo maintains relentless energy from opener to closer, often described as one of the most fun and infectious shows in the electronic music scene.[79][80] Their setlists evolve to balance crowd-pleasing hits, collaborative tracks, and newer material, ensuring variety across performances. A typical set might open with upbeat tracks like "Get Happy" and "New York Luau," transition into fan favorites such as "Classic" and "Bang Bang," and incorporate collaborations like "Slow Song" with Dragonette or covers including "Best Friend."[81][80] Later sets from 2025 onward have increasingly featured material from their album Revelation, such as "Dreams" and "No Requests," alongside remixes and surprises like guest appearances by collaborators to heighten excitement.[82][83] This mix allows for an evolving playlist that adapts to audience response, with older hits like "Boombox" and "R U HIGH" from 55 and Round the Clock still anchoring many shows.[84] Adaptations between festival slots and club tours highlight their versatility, often shifting from full live band setups in intimate venues to streamlined DJ sets at larger events. In club environments, they prioritize instrumental interplay and extended jams, as seen in tours where they perform 20+ songs without pauses, fostering a house-party vibe.[80][79] Festival appearances, such as at Lollapalooza, condense this into shorter, high-impact DJ-driven sets focused on anthemic drops and crowd sing-alongs, sometimes incorporating 4-5 pre-recorded segments within the live format to fit time constraints.[83][85] Fan engagement is a core element, with the duo frequently interacting directly by prompting the audience to dance or respond vocally, such as asking "Will you dance with us?" to elicit roars of affirmation and full participation.[80] They build anticipation through social media announcements of setlist teases and tour updates, occasionally surprising fans with on-stage guests like Dragonette for joint performances of tracks such as "Slow Song."[86] This approach creates a communal, celebratory energy that extends beyond the music, turning shows into interactive celebrations of their disco-infused sound.[79]Controversy
Daft Punk unmasking accusation
In June 2013, amid the promotional buildup to Daft Punk's album Random Access Memories, electronic production duo The Knocks posted a photograph on their Facebook page depicting two unmasked men—widely identified as Daft Punk members Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo—engaged in a game of champagne pong at Columbia Records' offices.[87] The image, capturing the duo in casual attire while sipping from plastic cups, circulated rapidly online before being deleted, igniting accusations that The Knocks had deliberately "unmasked" the reclusive French pair and violated their long-standing policy of anonymity.[88] This breach was particularly sensitive given Daft Punk's emphasis on their robotic personas, with Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo stating in a contemporaneous interview that “The robots are famous, we’re not. We’re allowed to have a normal life like regular people... That’s really important to us,” underscoring the group's deliberate separation of personal and artistic identities.[87] The Knocks responded swiftly by removing the post and updating their Facebook status with the message: "Guess we weren’t supposed to post that pic :X," framing the upload as an inadvertent error rather than a malicious leak.[89] This lighthearted acknowledgment quelled immediate backlash but did not prevent widespread media speculation, with outlets like Business Insider labeling the episode a "big, dumb scandal" that unnecessarily exposed Daft Punk at a peak moment of hype for their comeback album.[88] No formal statements from Daft Punk addressed the incident directly, and the post was promptly removed, aligning with their broader aversion to personal publicity.[90] The controversy generated fleeting headlines across entertainment press, including coverage in NME and People magazine, but lacked deeper fallout such as legal action or severed professional ties.[91]Discography
Studio albums
The Knocks' debut studio album, 55, was released on March 4, 2016, through Big Beat and Neon Gold Records.[32] Featuring 15 tracks with collaborations including Cam'ron, POWERS, and Wyclef Jean, the album blends nu-disco and electronic pop elements, drawing from the duo's New York roots.[92] Their second studio album, New York Narcotic, arrived on September 28, 2018, via Big Beat and Neon Gold Records.[38] Comprising 14 tracks with guest appearances from Method Man, Big Boi, and Foster the People, it serves as a concept album celebrating New York City life through funky, cross-genre beats and personal storytelling.[39] The third album, HISTORY, was issued on April 29, 2022, by Big Beat Records.[47] The standard edition includes 12 tracks, expanded to 22 on the deluxe version, showcasing a collaborative retrospective with artists such as MUNA, Mallrat, TEED, and Cold War Kids, evoking '80s-inspired synth-pop and house influences.[48] It topped the iTunes Top Electronic Albums chart upon release.[93] In 2025, The Knocks partnered with Dragonette for Revelation, released on June 6 through Neon Gold and their Black Clay label.[51] The 9-track synth-pop project emphasizes vibrant, retro-futuristic production and thematic exploration of love and escapism.[94]Extended plays and singles
The Knocks have built a substantial catalog of extended plays and singles since their inception, emphasizing collaborative electronic dance tracks that blend disco, house, and pop influences. Their EPs often serve as vehicles for experimental sounds and partnerships with emerging vocalists, while their singles frequently target dance radio and clubs, resulting in multiple chart placements on Billboard's Dance Club Songs and Hot Dance/Electronic Songs charts. Over their career, the duo has released dozens of singles, many garnering significant streaming success and radio play in the electronic genre.[56] Their debut extended play, Magic, arrived in 2011 via A&M/Octone Records and marked an early showcase of their upbeat, synth-driven style, featuring tracks like "Magic" with Gary Go and a remix of their breakthrough single "Dancing With the DJ." The EP highlighted their knack for infectious hooks and laid the foundation for future releases.[95][16] Following this, the Comfortable EP was issued in 2014 on Neon Gold Records, led by the title track featuring X Ambassadors, which captured a more introspective yet danceable vibe amid their growing remix work for artists like M83. The release underscored their evolution toward deeper collaborations in the indie-electronic space.[96] The 2015 So Classic EP, released April 7 on Big Beat/Neon Gold, leaned into nostalgic disco elements across five tracks, including the lead single "Classic" featuring Powers, which became a staple in their live sets and previewed their full-length debut. Critics praised its timeless throwback energy as a teaser for broader dance-pop explorations.[27][97] In 2017, Testify arrived on February 3 through Big Beat/Neon Gold, comprising six tracks with vocal contributions from MNEK, Delacey, Tayla Parx, Sam Nelson Harris, and Absofacto, emphasizing feel-good anthems like "Heat" and "Trouble." The EP reflected their maturing production approach, balancing club-ready beats with emotional lyrics.[98][35] The Summer Series: 2019 EP, released September 5 on Big Beat Records, collected six collaborative summer anthems, including "Lucky Me" and "New York Luau," capturing a carefree, seasonal vibe through partnerships that extended their reach on platforms like TikTok. It exemplified their strategy of rapid-fire single drops to maintain momentum between albums.[41] In 2021, The Knocks and Foster the People released the Melody & Silence EP on March 19 through Big Beat/Neon Gold Records, featuring four tracks including covers of '90s classics such as The Verve's "Bittersweet Symphony," Beck's "Devil's Haircut," and Moby's "South Side," plus a remix of "All About You."[99] Among their standout singles, "Classic" (featuring Powers), initially released in 2014 and included on the So Classic EP, solidified their presence in electronic radio. Similarly, "Ride or Die" (featuring Foster the People), dropped March 9, 2018, on Big Beat, charted at No. 16 on Dance Club Songs and No. 26 on Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, blending indie pop with their signature groove. "Best Friend," a 2017 collaboration on Sofi Tukker's track featuring NERVO and Alisa Ueno, reached No. 5 on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart and earned gold certification, highlighting their role in high-profile ensemble productions. These releases, alongside remixes like those for Foster the People, contributed to their reputation for chart-topping dance output.[56][100]| Extended Play | Release Date | Label | Notable Tracks/Collaborations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magic | 2011 | A&M/Octone | "Magic" (ft. Gary Go), "Dancing With the DJ" |
| Comfortable | 2014 | Neon Gold | "Comfortable" (ft. X Ambassadors) |
| So Classic | April 7, 2015 | Big Beat/Neon Gold | "Classic" (ft. Powers), "Time" |
| Testify | February 3, 2017 | Big Beat/Neon Gold | "Heat" (ft. Sam Nelson Harris), "Trouble" (ft. Absofacto) |
| Summer Series: 2019 | September 5, 2019 | Big Beat | "Lucky Me," "New York Luau" |
| Melody & Silence | March 19, 2021 | Big Beat/Neon Gold | "Bittersweet Symphony" (ft. Foster the People), "Devil's Haircut" |