Los Angeles-based queer pop artist Cade King brings dark pop, theatrical flair and unapologetic self-expression together on his latest single, “TEA.” Co-written and produced with longtime friend and collaborator Una Jensen, the bass-heavy pop track transforms personal conflict into an energetic statement about self-respect, confidence and knowing when to walk away from relationships that do more harm than good.
Inspired by an experience with someone whose criticism became increasingly difficult to accept, King uses the song to address the importance of standing up for yourself without losing your sense of humour or individuality. Built around an infectious hook, punchy bass and playful vocal details, “TEA” captures his interest in making pop music that is as entertaining as it is personal.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as Billie Eilish, Kim Petras and Slayyyter, King embraces a sound that combines darker production with camp, attitude and an unmistakable theatrical streak. His creative partnership with Jensen adds another dimension, with their shared musical chemistry helping shape the track’s personality.
In this exclusive interview, Cade King opens up about the personal experiences behind “TEA,” his creative partnership with Jensen, the influences shaping his sound and his ambitions for the future. Following releases including “teeth” and “tracks,” the single offers another glimpse into his evolving artistry as he prepares his debut album. Within his self-created “Kingdom,” individuality and queer expression take centre stage, and “TEA” makes that invitation impossible to ignore.
AVOLA: TEA” turns personal frustration into a song about self-respect. What made you decide to turn that experience into music?
Cade King: Sometimes you just need to vent to your bestie, and sometimes you need to turn that vent sesh into a banger. “TEA” takes you on a journey of spilling tea and not being afraid to kill off a relationship that no longer serves you.
AVOLA: You worked with your longtime friend Una Jensen on this track. How does that friendship shape the music you make together?
Cade King: We just have the most fun. Art ideally is fun and what is more fun than being so weird and explorative with your bestie? We just really get each other in a way that brings out the best art. We write in a way that is “song first” so no matter what, we create without ego.
AVOLA: The song balances dark pop, humour and camp. How do you bring those different sides of your personality into your sound?
Cade King: It’s so important to not take life too seriously. My macabre sense of humor allows me to dive deep into other people’s neurosis and my own and then figure out how that relationship translates into hits that make you want to dance the night away at the club and forget your problems.
AVOLA: Your vocals move between softness and attitude on “TEA.” How did you approach finding the right balance?
Cade King: I love this question. The pre-chorus is such a reference point for a lot of upcoming songs in the stylistic choice of the breathiness and then so are the spoken parts with the attitude. When lyrics kill the performance needs to spill. Gotta keep is casual, but *unt and “TEA” did a great job of setting up the sound for the new era.
AVOLA: The hook is incredibly catchy. Did you know from the beginning that it would become the heart of the song?
Cade King: Thank you, and absolutely. That was actually how the song started. I had initially written it slightly differently and Una’s genius mind elevated it with simplicity and sass.
AVOLA: You mention Billie Eilish, Kim Petras and Slayyyter as influences. What have you taken from their music while developing your own identity?
Cade King: I was so into Billie during the WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? era. That is a perfect no-skip album. This combination of dark sounds with catchy hooks and insatiable lyricism was my inspiration to make music. Well, that and separating from my ex fiancé and dating a guy for two weeks that needed to “stop” which was my debut single and you will hear the inspiration. Kim Petras’ TURN OFF THE LIGHT is a great example of the sonic inspiration for my newer music. And Slayyyter has really helped me to tap into my anger. As a society, we are shamed for our anger, but pouring my frustrations into a song is more therapeutic than actual therapy.
AVOLA: You describe your creative world as the “Kingdom.” What does that world represent, and who do you hope feels at home in it?
Cade King: I know it’s not the “best time for Kings” but No Kings except short, drag, and Cade, you know what I mean? It’s my name sake, so I ran with it. My father gave me great hair, a sick last name, and trauma. So, my “Kingdom” is for all the queer little boys and girls and gender nonconforming people that did not feel safe growing up and as adults can now find joy and safety within this community amongst queer royal excellence. All are welcome in the Kingdom, so long as you’re not a bigot (which is such a low bar).
AVOLA: You’ve performed at queer events like Planet Queer and Run Amuck. How important is that connection with the LGBTQ+ community to your artistry?
Cade King: Planet Queer is of course queer and it’s celestial exploration of variety acts and fun. Run Amuck is not innately queer, but when I am part of their show, it is. I make music for queer people as a queer person. That connection and bond is everything to me. The LGBTQ+ community is not a monolith, but you will be able to relate to at least one of my songs or relate someone else to that song.
AVOLA: You are working towards your debut album. Can listeners expect a different side of Cade King from what they’ve heard on “TEA,” “teeth” and “tracks”?
Cade King: While “teeth” and “tracks” are from the previous era and a different producer, they still have that dark-pop, dancey, fun energy to them. “TEA” is truly the first song that has felt the most “me.” The lyrics, music, and production all work together in a way that feels authentic and true to me as a person and as an artist. Listeners, heed this warning. You will be taken on a provocative *unt-pop journey through the self-discovery of toxic relationships, sex, and stepping into my power.
AVOLA: You have spoken about staying true to yourself despite criticism. What keeps you confident in your path when the support is not always guaranteed?
Cade King: If you are not paying me, I do not care about your criticism. Everyone on the internet are magically music pros and have become really confident in being cruel and disrespectful to people trying. Cringe only exists because of insecure losers on the internet. However, “haters” are just fans on a bad day AND they bring the right people to my music, so thanks for the engagement and be sure to like and follow for more!
THAT’S the TEA.
Featured Image: Richard Abagon
