#BlackAltBae: Kenny Kaos

Kenny Kaos (pictured far left) is the drummer for Washington, DC-based band Dead City Empire. It was a pleasure to complete this interview with him on March 27, 2026.

 

While researching you, I was intrigued. I don't normally interview drummers. What inspired you to take up the drums and how long have you been playing?

 

I have been playing drums since I was one year old! I got my first gig playing for church at about 9 years old. Since then I have never looked back! I've played and toured with many different styles of music but something about rock music that sets me free!

 

Do you play any other instruments?

 

I play guitar, bass guitar, keys, trumpet, trombone lets just say I'm musically inclined to learn any instrument I want. 

How do you practice the drums without driving your neighbors crazy, lol?

 

My neighbors definitely know a drummer is near by. But I keep everything to a minimum with short intervals of practice.

So you are in a band, Dead City Empire. Tell us about your music. Your Spotify bio describes you as "undefined" rock.

 

The music is undefined but more on the lines of Trap/Rock.

Tell us about your band. When did you meet and how did Dead City Empires come about?
 

Me and Seven met with another band we used to be in. They disbanded so we decided to continue on under a new name and the rest is history 

What is the songwriting process in DCE?
 

Usually me and Seven will send each other ideas via email. if we like then we move forward. It's a process that takes a lot of time because I feel songwriting is tedious. We want our music to last for many years after we are gone.

 

What are your influences as an individual musician, and as a band?
 

Deftones, Linkin Park, Staind, Korn. 

Does DCE tour often? What's that like for you?
 

We have done some touring but right now we are focused on writing our sophomore album. We have a large following is Spain and will get to perform for them soon. 

Tell us about DCE's first album. 

Our debut album Night Parade is Amazing! Fourteen blazing tracks to adore. This was an interesting experience for me because I played drums, guitar, bass and backing tracks on the album. All lyrics and vocal melodies were written by "Lucky Seven" our very talented lead singer. It was produced by the Legendary Matt Bittmanat Write Way Studios. Me and Seven work really well together and create musical magic! We couldn't ask for a more brilliant singer than Lucky Seven! The album Night Parade has reached over 5 million fans so far worldwide. Thank you in advance for checking it out.

 

We've got the sophomore album on the way, and an upcoming tour in Spain. Impressive! What else is in store for Dead City Empire?

Next thing in store for Dead City Empire is an AI series that correlates with our sophomore album METAVERSAL TOUR. Stay tuned and stay in tune.

 

Kenny, thank you so much for doing this!