Once upon a time (approximately six months ago), I proclaimed that 2026 would be “the year of the solo artist”; this week’s Under Exposed featured artist is here to make that a reality. JulianGK is a solo pop-punk act currently based in London, who hails originally from sunny Costa Rica. Julian finds his roots deep in Costa Rican “pura vida” culture, but noticed in his youth that sometimes life will throw curve balls into even the most beautiful places. He ultimately found a home in California pop-punk’s positive disposition and honest approach to understanding the world. In his time as a musician, Julian has moved country three times; he has worked as a guitar tech, production assistant, and has played guitar for a number of groups across the globe. Recently, Julian returned to producing his solo work, releasing a handful of singles each filled with character and reflecting Julian’s unique life experience.
Keep scrolling to check out my lightning round interview with JulianGK; be sure to follow along on Instagram @julian.gonzalez.kitsing, and tune in to Spotify. Don’t forget to save the Under Exposed playlist on Spotify to listen to my favorites from JulianGK and the rest of the Under Exposed lineup!
Interview
Cameron Conrad sits down with JulianGK
What’s your dream venue, the place that will feel like you’ve “made it” once you've played there?
The O2
If you could pick any band or artist, past or present, to tour with, who would it be?
Green Day
If you were a Disney character, who would you be?
The Torch from Fantastic 4
What’s the craziest, cringiest thing you’ve done for the sake of your music?
Oh... so many dumb TikTok videos.
If we gave out high-school superlatives today, what would you win?
Best skateboarder, surfer and football player
Any new music or upcoming tours we should know about? Anything brewing behind the scenes you can give a hint about?
I'm working on a few singles with producer Alex Copp. The songs are hitting super hard and getting a really good blend of that pop punk sound with a hard edge of hardcore. Think The Bronx/Gallows/Black Flag on the verses + AFI/The Used, Green Day on the choruses.
I'm also touring as guitarist with one of my favourite artists at the moment. I'm super stoked to hit the road and do some major festivals. Look out on my socials for the announcement.