Gold-certified dark alt-pop artist Chri$tian Gate$ just released his latest album, No Strings Attached. The album contains the recent hit, "TOXIC," and eight other new tracks that are sure to delight any new or existing fans. I've honestly had this album on repeat and am a big fan of "TOXIC" and "Saying Goodbye." This album will definitely only further propel his current stardom!
We had the absolute honor of chatting with Christian recently just before the release and discussed the album, his sound, how he measures success, and more!
MSM: You’re about to release your next album, No Strings Attached. How will this album compare to your previous releases?
CHRISTIAN: No Strings Attached takes things up a notch. My past stuff has bounced between different sounds, but this album really hones in on the highs and lows. You’ll get tracks like "TOXIC" that bring that hard energy, and then there’s "Saying Goodbye," which hits deep emotionally. I think it’s got a good mix of what people expect from me and some stuff that’s new. It’s like all these different parts of me coming together to make something that actually feels like one solid project.
If you had to pick out your favorite song or lyrics from the forthcoming album, what would they be?
Right now, "Babydoll" is probably my favorite just because of the vibe—it’s got this energy that feels really fresh. But for lyrics, I’d have to say "Saying Goodbye." I wrote it when my girlfriend and I were going through a rough patch, and I was just imagining what it would be like to lose her. It was one of those songs where you write it and kind of get hit with the emotion yourself. It’s raw, and I think people are gonna feel that.
Your music defies easy categorization, blending elements of different genres and styles. How do you approach genre and style when writing and recording music?
I usually go into a song with a specific vibe in my head, like a niche that might not even be an actual genre yet. I want each song to feel like the best version of whatever style I’m aiming for. Once I feel like I nailed that sound, I’m ready to switch it up and move to something else. It keeps things interesting and makes sure I’m not just repeating myself.
What do you think sets your music apart?
Honestly, I think it’s just that I don’t like being boxed into one thing. My music’s got elements of different genres, and I like taking risks with it. I’m not afraid to put out something that sounds totally different from the last track. It’s all about making something that feels fresh and real, even if it doesn’t fit what people expect.
What does “success” mean to you?
Success is just being able to make stuff I’m proud of and have people actually connect with it. It’s not about numbers or charts; it’s about knowing that my music means something to people. As long as I can keep doing that, I feel like I’m winning.
How do you balance staying true to your artistic vision while also appealing to a wide audience?
I just write what I want and feel. I only really change things up if I’m diving into a genre that’s way out in left field for my listeners. So, I don’t think about the audience much for concepts or lyrics, but I keep them in mind when it comes to style.
When fans recommend you to others, what song do you think would be the best introduction to your music?
If I had to pick one, I’d probably say "Dangerous State of Mind." It’s got a mix of everything—vibes, energy, and lyrics that people can latch onto. It’s one of those tracks that captures a lot of what I try to do with my music.
Your lyrics often touch on deeply personal experiences and emotions. How do you go about writing about such personal topics, and how do you balance being vulnerable with maintaining a sense of privacy?
Writing music is basically therapy for me. It helps me get my thoughts and feelings out, and I know people connect with that honesty. I try to be real about what I’m going through without oversharing every detail. That way, it still feels like I’m sharing, but I keep some things for myself.
What artists have you been listening to lately?
Lately, I’ve been on a mix of stuff. Some older tracks for the nostalgia, mixed with newer artists I’m finding. My playlist’s always changing—there’s too much good music out there to stick to just one thing.
Lastly, do you have anything else that you’d like to share with your fans?
Just a huge thanks to everyone who’s been along for the ride. No Strings Attached has a lot of me in it, and I’m excited for everyone to finally hear it. I’m also working on a little something outside of music that I hope people will love. Stay tuned.
