Detroit-based rock trio Autumn Kings recently released their single/music video, “Sleep When I'm Dead,” a statement of pure determination to do whatever it takes to achieve the goal. “Sleep When I'm Dead” is a rallying cry for anyone who doesn't want to be told the odds.
Not long ago, the Autumn Kings were stocking grocery store shelves and dreaming of rock stardom. Tireless work, ingenuity and genuine camaraderie put them on the path to success, and their recent achievements are impressive. They brought their piledriver sound to Japan, South Korea and Guam and earned a local reputation for their fierce and fearless performances. XS Noize spoke with guitarist Jake Diab to learn more about what motivates Autumn Kings and the inspiration for “Sleep When I'm Dead.”
What inspired your new single/music video, “Sleep When I'm Dead?”
We did some headline shows in Japan in the summer of 2023 and were inspired by the Japanese people's love for anime. Joe is a huge anime fan, and our fans have already shown us how much they love listening to our music combined with their favorite anime scenes, so it was a no-brainer for us to make an anime video for 'Sleep When I'm Dead '. .'
'Sleep When I'm Dead', as a song, is an intense ball of energy written to be the soundtrack to all the everyday conquests of hustlers and grinders, whether in sports, video games, school , work, or somewhere else…. Simply put, we wanted to metaphorically punch people in the face, wake them up, and motivate them to smash it. These tend to be our favorite types of songs to write and the songs that come easy to us because the entire band has an intense drive to win and succeed.
Who directed the video?
This is Justin Everest, a fellow Canadian from Montreal who we discovered online and built a good relationship with. He does an amazing job and knocked this video out of the park. Like us, he is very detail-oriented, which helped us understand each other well.
What do you want people to take away from the single/video?
I would like people to walk away with lifelong motivation and the understanding that virtually any problem or negative perception can be overcome with the right mental attitude. I want them to win at whatever they try to do. Empowerment, above anything else, is the goal.
How, when and where did the Kings of Autumn meet?
Joe and I met while working at a grocery store in 2013. We talked shopping in the break room one day, and a few years later, when I was in college and wanted to quit school or start a band, I dug up my old BlackBerry. I found his number, put it in my iPhone, called him, we met in my parents' basement and… the rest is history.
Who is in the band and what instrument do they play?
Joe Coccimiglio – Vocals, Jake Diab – Vocals, Guitar, Troy Dawdy – Drums.
How did you get started in music?
'Guitar Hero III' at the age of 12. 'Prayer of the Refugee' by Rise Against, 'Lay Down' by Priestess and 'One' by Metallica were all songs found in the game that helped curate my musical taste. I got addicted to that game and got pretty good at it, but luckily God gave me the good sense to quit the game and pick up a real guitar. The first song I learned was 'Back in Black' by AC/DC, and shortly after 'Enter Sandman' by Metallica. I took lessons for a few months and then figured out the rest. Since I had awkward tendencies in elementary school, music was my escape. It was the only thing that didn't care about my social status. I realized I wanted to start a band when I abandoned a game of hide-and-seek at a friend's house to play drums for his brother. I stayed with that kit for 3 hours and knew I needed a battery. After begging my parents incessantly to give me a drum kit for my 12th birthday, they agreed on the condition that I learn to play the guitar. I'm glad they required me to learn how to play the guitar because now I dedicate most of my musical time to it.
What singers/musicians influenced your sound?
Billy Talent, Linkin Park, Three Days Grace, System of a Down and many more… All of these artists had a heavy touch but placed a huge emphasis on writing memorable vocal melodies. System of a Down is one of the most outlandish bands, but everything sounds as hooky as a pop song. We always try to maintain both the musical mastery of our songs and the memorability of a single listen when you listen to Autumn Kings.
What would you say if you had to describe your sound to the uninitiated?
Linkin Park and Fall Out Boy had a baby. Arena Rock with hooks and balls.
Why do you make music?
Because we love it and we can express our emotions and messages more effectively than other means of communication, it is the most fun in the world.
What can you share about your writing process?
It usually starts with a guitar or piano, and I mutter some nonsense, accidentally stumbling on an interesting word, and Joe plays the role of 'shame detector', helping to guide the lyrics. Then we share it with our producer, and he tells us if it's good, great, or terrible and what needs to be perfected to make an idea “great”, then we hone the song and production tirelessly from there until we get it. good.
Which artists, in your opinion, are making waves right now?
NF, Russ, New Medicine, Nic D, Blue Stones, Blink 182. Not only are these artists excellent songwriters, musicians and producers, but most of the aforementioned are independent and DIY pioneers, and we praise that spirit. We are inspired by the entrepreneurial efforts of these artists, not that we rule out the possibility of landing a major label. Still, we firmly believe in having a strong, self-sufficient ecosystem built around the music we make. These artists emulate that spirit.
How do you define success?
They are simply doing what you love to do without compromise while being able to financially support you and your family.
What can your fans expect over the next six months? Live concerts? Music videos?
A TON of new music…. And don't be surprised if you see us in a city near you.
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