Kate Peytavin on the Rush and Frustration of Young Lust in ‘whole heart black’
Alt-pop artist Kate Peytavin needs no introduction, but it looks like the star is ready to take on something entirely new with the release of her first single of the year, "whole heart black."
With this new track, Kate explores a whole new side of her musicality, leaning into dark, crunchy sounds inspired by the '90s and early '00s as she laments her craving of love and attention from someone she doesn't truly care about, and knowing it'll come back to bite her in the future. The second we heard it, we knew we needed to know more, and Kate was kind enough to share her insights on the songs origins and what's next in the interview below.
The Story Behind 'whole heart black'
Kate Peytavin: 'WHB' means being addicted to a feeling, not necessarily the person. I want to feel admired, loved and accepted. Gain your respect because I don't feel like I have it. I'm going back to you to feel a high—feel a rush. You're fun, attractive and treat me like s*** and maybe that's okay with me.
What 'whole heart black' Means
KP: This song is frustration—wanting something that I can't have. I hope my listeners use this song to dive deep into their emotions instead of suppressing them. Embrace normal reactions we're used to being shamed for.
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Kate's Favorite Lyric
KP: "I'm coming up to the surface and I'm trying to breathe your air, but you're never there." This line is pure desperation and exaggeration, the exact mindset I wrote in when creating "whole heart black." I often look back on times when I was trying to get over someone and realize how dramatic I was. This line captures that drama perfectly.
On Evolving Her Sound
KP: This track's sound is very different from the previous music I have out. "whole heart black" is more '90s/early 2000s angst-inspired. It was totally experimental and felt obvious I should continue to work in this style the day the track was made.
This song is different for me. It has energy, anger, individuality. It's a new year and a very new me. Starting the year off with a bang.
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On What's Next
KP: In 2024, my biggest goal is to have my first ever music video. As of now, all of my songs have visualizers, but I'm beyond excited to extend the storytelling process into a longer form. It's extremely important for me to visually express myself.
(Photo credit: Hannah Tacher)
Final Thoughts
KP: "whole heart black" is only one piece to the big puzzle that's yet to come.
For more insights on our favorite new music, click HERE to check out our interview with Asher Angel on his latest track, "Flip the Switch."