Spindle Radar: Kate Wild Steps Into The Spotlight With Empowering EP ‘Hopeless Optimist’

Introducing powerhouse Kate Wild, who has arrived to shake up the pop scene. The multitalented artist boasts expertise in songwriting, vocals, production and engineering – she really does have it all. Her new single ‘Who You Are’ and upcoming debut EP ‘Hopeless Optimist’ pack a whole lot of meaning, as the rising star wears her heart on her sleeve and hopes to inspire listeners with her wise and introspective lyricism. 

Having received previous support from BBC Radio 1, Capital Dance and Kiss FM, alongside being sampled by huge names including Cardi B, Rod Wave and Bring Me The Horizon, Kate Wild is now stepping into her most authentic era, and is ready to show the world what she is made of. 

Hi Kate, thanks for chatting with us! How’s your 2024 been so far?

It’s been great! I released debut music as a solo artist which I’m so proud of anddd I just became a first time homeowner which is so so exciting. I finally get to cosplay as an interior designer and set up my home studio!!

How would you describe your sound to our readers?

There’s definitely an 80s inspired scandi pop vibe going on in my debut EP. I like to experiment within the dance x pop crossover space. I’m most associated with House and EDM but for my debut I felt like the stories I had to get off my chest were leaning into upbeat pop. 

You have some exciting releases this summer, including your single ‘Who You Are’ and your long awaited EP ‘Hopeless Optimist’. Can you tell us more about how these came about?

Ever tried dating during a pandemic? 0/10 don’t recommend. This EP wrote itself after I moved to London in 2020, peak lockdown, decided to join dating apps for the first time, then spent 3 years regretting that decision after getting involved with seemingly toxic men. It was exhausting and heartbreaking. Each song on the EP is about a different guy I dated. I’d always low key hoped one of them would hear it on the Radio one day and wonder if it was about them. When I released my first single ‘Everything I Hate about you’ the guy it was about was one of the first people to congratulate me on it – you can’t write it.

‘Who You Are’ is a song about self acceptance. Finding out who you truly are and owning it. Even if your friends and family don’t understand your vision, decisions or choices only you have to be okay with them. I settled on this mind set after a conversation I had with my housemate who lovingly asked if I should slow down on dating. In truth, it was hard for her to see me get hurt over and over again. But I’m stubborn and headstrong and wanted to believe there was still a good person and right relationship for me out there. Around this time, I saw a quote from Case Kennys book ‘That’s Bold of You’ which said “I’d rather be a hopeless optimist than stop believing there are still good people and rewarding experiences left in the world”. And that’s exactly how I felt and why I wrote ‘Who You Are’. 

When you get to the studio, do you have any rituals that help with creativity?

Tidy! Clear space, clear mind. I don’t like to get in the zone on an empty stomach because 1pm turns into 11pm real fast. I also love fragrance. I’m obsessed with candles and reed diffusers. Give me a good scent and some mood lighting and let’s gooo.

Who would be your dream collaboration?

For legend status alone it has to be Dolly Parton. She’s my idol. A witty, beautiful, talented, kind and hard working business woman who’s always stayed true to herself. In terms of Pop today I’d have to say Max Martin, Ryan Tedder or Charlie Puth – there’s not a song these songwriters/producers write that don’t make you feel something!

Who are your biggest inspirations in the pop music world right now, and why?

Ooh tough question, I’m discovering new artists all the time that inspire me. It’s often those earlier in their careers that are absolutely grafting DIY I’m most creatively inspired by. Some stand out inspirations for me though are Chappel Roan, Rina Sawayama, Griff, Muna, Fletcher, Dagny, Charli XCX, Tate McRae and always Lady Gaga.

What are your interests outside of music?

Formula 1 – I went to Silverstone this year to watch the British Grand Prix and it was amazing, I grew up in a sport loving family so it’s not just the Netflix Drive to Survive craze that got me into it. Fitness is another, I love finding ways to stay active that don’t feel like a chore, I go through phases; HIIT, running, swimming, spin then weight training. I also love shopping for new fragrances and finding the best vegan and vegetarian spots around London or wherever I’m traveling.

As well as being a vocalist, you also write and produce all of your music. What advice would you give to other women in the industry who are looking to get into these fields?

This is a topic I’m super passionate about so if you’ll indulge me; Understand that there is nothing anyone else can learn that you can’t too. Invest in yourself whenever you can. Take people in your network who inspire you out for coffee or lunch and pick their brain. The school of YouTube, Google and Chat GPT has everything you need to acquire the tools, experience comes with time so be patient. Don’t get in your own way by comparing yourself to others. Stay focused on yourself, everyone’s journey is different. Your superpower is your unique perspective. Don’t get caught up in perfectionism, just create.

What has been your biggest ‘pinch me’ moment so far in your career?

The day I received my silver plaque for my song with Mentis ‘Excuses’. The summer this song was released we were in peak lockdown so it felt like a fever dream hearing my voice on the Radio. I definitely didn’t cry when it came…

 Can we catch you at any shows soon?

I’m working on the shows! I’m currently writing more music so I have a full set, so that when I do put on that first show, it’s a real party!

And finally, what’s next for Kate Wild?

Release my EP ‘Hopeless Optimist’ then finish up my second EP. I’ve already written some songs I’m really excited about and can’t wait to share!

Make sure to check out Kate Wild’s new EP Hopeless Optimist, here or below.