While many artists often try to be something new and different in a world and industry chock full of artistic talent, perhaps few have succeeded on the scale that Devin Coogan, otherwise known as CHILD, has in considerably short career. With his hypnotic blend of poptronica, indie-alternative and neo-soul informally known as experimental pop, he’s always exploring and experimenting; working tirelessly to create a sound and experience no one has seen or heard before, as showcased through his latest project – the CHILD: Live Experience, which captured CHILD’s DEBUT concert in one take. PopWrapped caught up with CHILD to find out more about the backstory to his name, the Live Experience creative process and to discover his key goal as an artist.
What made you take the name CHILD as a moniker?
My wife and I brainstormed a few dozen names. What was unique about “CHILD” was that we got it separately then suggested it simultaneously. Later that evening, the co-creators in LA were presented the full list. “CHILD – that’s your name,” they both said. They didn’t know that was our first choice as well.
There are scores of bands and artists out there right now, from all walks of life and from/covering all genres, so what sets you apart? Why should someone perhaps choose your music over that of someone else?
Spotify seems to have no shortage of trendy singles. Redefining a genre interests me more than matching myself with one or two. In a broad sense, the highest acclaimed Pop music is often pop-redefined. I could write a new song unlike anything ever heard – that sense of creative-limitlessness draws me into inspiration. Originality is the most natural expression for any artist – I want to retain my authentic elements. But, I’ll do whatever a label asks if the money’s right (sarcasm).
Tell me about the CHILD: Live Experience. From start to finish, how long did the project take and are you pleased with the end result?
Productions – especially those technologically-inclined, require months of planning/prep. The vision for CHILD Live surfaced May (2019) and required “To Do’s” in our iPhones every week leading up to that September – 4-5 months of preparation. The video & audio recording was ready-to-ship by New Years’ 2019.
Myself and the live team are pleased; more so, inspired for what’s possible. On the outside, Live might look like our ceiling, but it’s become the floor. Right now, ideas are being passed across the table that are next-gen.
What do you want fans to take from the experience when they see/hear it?
I want them to take what I took… self-awareness; conscience. I would like to see the time of ignoring ourselves – inwardly – come to a close… That is what this live experience presents certain opportunity for.
How badly are you missing live shows and is that part of the reason you decided to share this now?
Right about now we’re all missing live everything – music especially. Providentially, the halt of in-person experiences has become our opportunity to ready ourselves for another chapter of history… a post-COVID19 world. That might sound spooky, but we believe Live is the top of an iceberg. Nevertheless, I consider it a gift to premiere Live on YouTube during the shutdown of virtually all live music—not too many live recordings dropping these days!
How important is and has social media been for you, particularly this year, with face-to-face and artist to crowd interactions being so restricted? Are the likes of Twitter and Facebook sites you use regularly, or do you prefer to find other ways to interact with your audience?
I am thankful to have a team (Mary C. w/ @AESTHETYK & my wife @KatelynCoogan involved in @childtheartist social content… they’re gifted! You can tell when I am trying to post — not too pretty! As a recently launched artist, most of your fans are friends. Nevertheless, we’re seeing more new faces than ever before… 90+ countries! I’m currently on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and exploring within multiple new mediums.
You’re a fairly new name in the music world but what’s been the highlight of your career so far and what advice would you give to someone just starting out in this ever-competitive industry?
The buy-in from friends & family, along with AESTHETYK is my highlight – they’re seeing what I’m seeing! Many connect with you for only 4 minutes (a song), but family will remain and move forward with you.
Practical advice: the only quick thing that can happen is quitting. Commit to the process!
Finally, then, what’s the one key goal you have as an artist, both for now and in the months and years ahead? When they write your name in the history book of music, what sentence do you want written underneath it?
In 2020, I desire to end each day well & remember tomorrow is coming. Poetic, yes. Practically speaking, as CHILD I have a part to play in the “tomorrow” of music/culture. I believe this expression I have can be a “precursor to a cultural-shift” – spiritually, artistically and socially – there’s my history-book sentence! If I am not remembered for something that doesn’t cause a person to look inward, upward, and forward then I’ve missed it. With the right team, I’m hopeful to fulfil this!
