Podcast Summary: "The Creative Harmony of Damian Kulash of Ok Go"

Published on April 18, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this episode of the "takin' a walk" MUSIC HISTORY ON FOOT podcast, host Buzz Knight engages in an in-depth conversation with Damian Kulash, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the innovative band Ok Go. Kulash, renowned not only for his musical talents but also for pioneering some of the most creative music videos of the modern era, delves into his artistic journey, the evolution of Ok Go, and the underlying philosophies that drive his work.

Early Influences and Upbringing in Washington, D.C.

Timestamp: [04:45]

Damian Kulash opens up about his formative years in Washington, D.C., highlighting the city's vibrant DIY punk rock scene during his high school years. This environment, characterized by inclusivity and creativity, significantly influenced his decision to pursue a career in music and the arts.

Damian Kulash: "I grew up in Washington, D.C. during my most formative musical period around early high school... It was so inclusive and invited people in so much that I think I really have that to thank for a career in music and a career in the arts in general."
[04:45]

He reflects on the contrast between the electronic perfection of artists like Prince and Depeche Mode and the raw, emotive power of punk bands like Fugazi and Minor Threat. This blend of influences instilled in him a desire to create music that balances technical proficiency with emotional authenticity.

Creative Resilience and Evolution of Ok Go

Timestamp: [13:03] to [19:40]

Kulash discusses the concept of creative resilience, describing it as the ability to push artistic boundaries despite challenges and setbacks. He emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving as artists to stay relevant and innovative.

Damian Kulash: "The most magical stuff is always going to be kind of at the edge of your limits and that means it's always going to require some resiliency to get there."
[13:38]

He touches upon Ok Go's reputation as a "video band," known for their viral and gravity-defying music videos like the Treadmill Dance. Kulash expresses a mix of pride and envy towards bands with a more defined brand, acknowledging the complexity of balancing diverse influences to create a unique sound.

Damian Kulash: "I sometimes envy bands that have a more clear brand... Maybe it's growing up in this era where the past is accessible... it feels so arbitrary to be stuck in one mode."
[16:51]

Kulash also recounts Ok Go's relationship with Capitol Records, detailing their departure from the major label to maintain creative independence. This move allowed the band to continue experimenting with innovative business models, leveraging digital platforms and word-of-mouth promotion over traditional record sales.

Damian Kulash: "We were on the road without ever stopping with that album. And so we were working our asses off and super happy about the success, but also really, really tired."
[22:37]

New Projects: The Adjacent Possible and Tour

Timestamp: [27:16] to [33:29]

Kulash introduces Ok Go's latest album, "The Adjacent Possible," explaining that the project marks a return to their musical roots with a more honest and free-flowing creative process. After a hiatus driven by personal commitments and the pandemic, the band is excited to share their new work with the world.

Damian Kulash: "I am more proud of this record than I have been with any we've made so far because of that. It just feels more like us."
[27:33]

He elaborates on the themes of hope and resilience that permeate the new album, influenced by his experiences as a father and the broader societal challenges posed by the pandemic.

Damian Kulash: "These are prayers for hope in a really dark time... sometimes you need a song that's as sad as you are when you're sad."
[30:09]

Kulash expresses his enthusiasm for the upcoming tour, describing it as a joyous return to performing live. The band plans to embark on short runs across different regions, balancing their passion for music with family life.

Damian Kulash: "It is so, so fun. We've started rehearsals and stuff, and it is just such a joy to be playing these songs in a physical way."
[33:29]

Sandbox Project: Merging Music and Education

Timestamp: [34:14] to [36:57]

One of the standout initiatives discussed is the Sandbox project, an educational platform developed by Ok Go to integrate their music videos with classroom learning. Kulash shares how their creative work unexpectedly found relevance in educational settings, leading them to support teachers by providing instructional and behind-the-scenes content aligned with curricula.

Damian Kulash: "If there are good humans out there taking this selfish stuff we have made and making the world a better place with it, the least we can do is support them."
[34:14]

The Sandbox project, accessible at okgosandbox.org, offers free resources for teachers to engage students with physics, math, art, and resilience through the lens of Ok Go's innovative videos. Collaborating with the Playful Learning Lab at the University of St. Thomas in Twin Cities, the project aims to enhance educational experiences using creative multimedia content.

Damian Kulash: "It's incredible to watch these things take on a life of their own and do something good in the world that we didn't even plan them to do."
[36:57]

Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

Timestamp: [37:06] to [37:13]

As the conversation wraps up, Kulash expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share Ok Go's journey and reiterates his excitement for the band's future projects and tours.

Damian Kulash: "And really appreciate your time and your patience with my long and winding answers."
[37:06]

Conclusion

This episode of "takin' a walk" offers a comprehensive look into Damian Kulash's creative mind and the dynamic evolution of Ok Go. From their roots in the D.C. punk scene to their pioneering approach to music videos and educational projects, Kulash exemplifies the blend of passion, resilience, and innovation that defines modern musicianship. Listeners gain valuable insights into maintaining artistic integrity, adapting to changing landscapes, and leveraging creativity for broader societal impact.

Notable Quotes:

1. On Creative Resilience

   Damian Kulash ([13:38]): "The most magical stuff is always going to be kind of at the edge of your limits and that means it's always going to require some resiliency to get there."

2. On Musical Evolution

   Damian Kulash ([16:51]): "I have this sort of feeling that it feels so arbitrary to be stuck in one mode. As a maker of things, as a consumer of things."

3. On the Sandbox Project

   Damian Kulash ([34:14]): "If there are good humans out there taking this selfish stuff we have made and making the world a better place with it, the least we can do is support them."

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