At only 20 years old, Julia Kate is making her mark in the music industry with a distinctive style that blends the inspirations of pop icons such as Taylor Swift, Lorde, Billie Eilish, and Lana Del Rey. Hailing from Sherman Oaks, California, Julia’s journey as a singer-songwriter started in high school, where she honed her abilities with the mentorship of producer Johnny What. Her early works, including the 2022 EP ‘just a kid’ and the 2023 project ‘yearbook’, showcased her development as an artist, while her hit single beverly hills in late 2024 greatly increased her following. Currently a student at Berklee College of Music, she furthers her songwriting skills while performing throughout Los Angeles during her visits home. In her latest single, “Fake Friends,” Julia explores her artistry further, fusing 80s new wave styles with modern lyrical subjects.

Released on January 24th, 2025, Julia Kate’s latest single, “Fake Friends,” presents an exhilarating blend of 80s-inspired new wave and contemporary pop features, establishing it as one of her most engaging releases thus far. The track acts as a rallying cry for a generation facing the difficulties of social media-driven relationships, enveloped in a sound that is equally enthralling and suitable for dancing. From the very first note, “Fake Friends” grabs the audience’s focus with its lively synths and a consistent, pulsating rhythm, crafting a highly immersive experience. Julia Kate has compared the song to a fusion of Deborah Harry’s distinctive charm and Chappell Roan’s dynamic performance, and that analogy is certainly spot-on. It evokes a sense of nostalgia while being refreshingly contemporary, honoring history yet forging its unique identity within the current pop scene.

One of the most compelling elements of “Fake Friends” is its masterfully executed vocal performance. Julia Kate’s voice possesses a unique quality that is both effortless and commanding, pulling the listener into the emotional heart of the song. In the verses, her singing feels cool and detached, reflecting the theme of superficial friendships and the emotional numbness that can come with them. However, as the song advances, her vocals gradually increase in intensity, culminating in a chorus that erupts with frustration and urgency. The delivery of the line “All I know is fake friends make me feel more alone” is especially impactful. Sung with a measured power, it accentuates the sentiment even more. Her skill in balancing restraint and emotional release lends “Fake Friends” an authenticity and relatability, as if she’s addressing the listener’s personal experiences directly.

The instrumentation in “Fake Friends” stands out as one of its key attributes, effectively weaving together classic 80s new wave elements with sleek, contemporary production techniques. The track is characterized by a rhythmic synth pulse that transports listeners into a neon-lit atmosphere reminiscent of Blondie, The Go-Go’s, and The Bangles, yet it manages to avoid feeling like a mere nostalgia trip. The bassline is rich and groovy, contributing an infectious energy that propels the song ahead, while the drum programming is crisp and sharp, maintaining high energy. The incorporation of electric guitars within the mix adds a layer of grit, preventing the track from becoming excessively polished or synthetic. The layering of these components creates a lush, expansive soundscape that is both immersive and exhilarating, making “Fake Friends” an undeniable earworm from beginning to end.

Lyrically, “Fake Friends” offers a pointed and relevant critique of the superficial aspects of contemporary friendships, especially in the age of technology. Although the song does not stem from a specific personal experience, Julia Kate has created lyrics that feel universally relatable, capturing the common sense of disillusionment that many young individuals encounter today. Social media has blurred the distinction between authentic relationships and carefully crafted identities, and “Fake Friends” incisively reflects that conflict. The lyrics examine the concept of individuals who act as supporters publicly but show their real motives when not in view. The song conveys a deep sadness in its message, yet it is presented with a self-awareness that stops it from seeming excessively gloomy. Rather, it transforms into an uplifting anthem, reminding audiences that they are not solitary in facing these challenges.

The production quality of “Fake Friends” is flawless, achieving an ideal harmony between refinement and genuine emotion. Producer and co-writer Nick Rosen has skillfully captured the spirit of 80s new wave while making the song feel contemporary and relevant in 2025. The blend is sharp and harmonious, enabling every instrument to stand out without overshadowing Julia Kate’s singing. The synths drenched in reverb give the track a dreamy essence, whereas the meticulous drum programming maintains a high level of energy. Each aspect of the production appears purposeful and thoughtfully designed, enhancing the song’s overall effect and demonstrating that “Fake Friends” stems from a detailed artistic conception.

Apart from its musical charm, “Fake Friends” serves as a cultural commentary, showcasing the evolving nature of friendship in an ever more digital society. The song explores the shared feeling of being surrounded but still alone, a contradiction that has become increasingly prevalent in the era of social media. The detail that Julia Kate found inspiration from a Blondie concert she went to with her uncle two years ago gives additional depth to the song, marking a significant full-circle moment in her artistic journey. It is evident that she is not just mimicking her influences but instead expressing them through her unique voice and viewpoint. Her talent for merging nostalgia with personal expression is what renders her a fascinating artist, and “Fake Friends” exemplifies her skill in transforming inspiration into something genuinely unique.

In the end, “Fake Friends” is not only an excellent pop track but also a declaration of creative purpose from Julia Kate, demonstrating that she is a formidable presence in the changing music scene. With its captivating energy, clever lyrics, and outstanding production, the track possesses all the qualities of a potential breakout success. This track feels perfect for late-night drives, lively dance floors, and solitary reflective moments with headphones in. By skillfully blending the finest aspects of 80s new wave with contemporary lyrical insights, Julia Kate has created a track that sounds both eternal and strikingly current. Since “Fake Friends” serves as a sign of what lies ahead, then it is clear that Julia Kate is poised to leave a significant mark in the realm of pop music.