Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Sean Kennedy

THE RELEASE

Introducing his latest musical creation, the awe-inspiring singer and university freshman, Sean Kennedy, reveals his fourth album, "Forever Us" This exceptional 19-year-old talent demonstrates an unwavering dedication to his artistic expedition. Consisting of ten never-before-heard compositions, along with his remarkable singles from this year, such as 'Memory,' 'I Wish You Were Here,' and 'Another Life,' the album revolves around profound concepts of affection and heartache, highlighting the profound appreciation one harbors for the encounter of love. Through his poignant verses and captivating harmonies, Kennedy skillfully captures the essence of enduring affection, surpassing the dwindling flames of initial fervor.

"Forever Us" distinguishes itself from Kennedy's preceding works by adopting a reflective and maturing stance, effectively transforming into an album centered on self-affection. The journey commences with the enchanting opening track, a heartfelt serenade that explores the elusive quest for genuine love. As the album progresses, dynamic compositions like 'Memory,' 'I Wish You Were Here,' and '4;24' infuse it with lively rock influences, crafting an immersive melodic landscape. Ultimately, the concluding piece, "Wait For You," expertly encapsulates the album's spirited yet emotionally evocative nature, acting as a testament to Kennedy's artistic development and musical harmony. With "Forever Us," Sean Kennedy cordially invites listeners into an engrossing and captivating sonic voyage, leaving an indelible impression and cementing his status as an artist deserving of close attention in the industry.

THE INTERVIEW

What song or moment in time sparked your passion for music?
Music has always been a huge part of my life, I can’t remember a time when it wasn’t. I wrote my first song when I was 9 years old, so I would say that was the moment that sparked my passion. 10 years later, I haven’t stopped.

If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?

I think first and foremost, I would have to choose Taylor Swift. She’s been such an inspiration to me as an artist entirely. From songwriting, to album aesthetics, to artists rights, she has definitely shaped me. Next, I would choose Lana Del Rey who’s more recently become a gigantic inspiration. Ultraviolence was a big inspiration for this record. Next, I would choose Max Martin. That’s a no brainer, he’s a genius and there’s never been, or never will be, anyone like him. Finally, I would choose Jack Antonoff. He’s been a huge inspiration throughout my career and someone I really look up to.

How does your creative process work from the moment you develop the idea to the completion of the record?
Since my second album, I have tried not to set out expecting to create a record. I much prefer the natural process of getting ideas for songs, and having them create a record on their own. For this album, the title track, “Forever Us” was the moment I knew I was creating an album. This clear outline began to form, and it was very easy to start writing songs with that outline in mind.

As for this release, who is the producer and what about the production moved you?

I produced half of this record alone and I co-produced the other half with Francesco Massidda. My main goal with this record was to expand my team of creatives. My past three albums were almost solely produced by myself. I began sending songs to different producers in hopes I would find someone that could help me create the record I had in my head. Francesco Massidda had sent me a demo, and I immediately knew he was the one I wanted to work with. I had wanted to make a rock inspired record since my first album, and his production really felt like a natural step in that direction from my previous discography. At first, we only worked on the song “I Wish You Were Here”, but then, I kept coming back to him with more songs I wanted his help on. I’ve never met someone who is able to truly understand how to bring a vision to life, and make it better at the same time.

When it comes to the songwriting on this record, what is the message you want to get across to your listeners?

I think a line from the song “Love Lives On” really encapsulates the message I wanted to convey in this record. It says “Long after the fire’s out and gone, love lives on”. Love never dies if it lives in memory, and relationships aren’t the bookends of when love can exist. I truly debated naming the record “Love Lives On”, because it stands for a lot of the same things as “Forever Us”, but it felt too on the nose.

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