Louis The Child: The Rise, Sound, and Influence of a New Generation of Electronic Music Artists
In a music industry increasingly driven by algorithms and cross-genre experimentation, Louis The Child has carved out a distinctive niche — blending youthful energy, indie-pop sensibilities, and electronic production into a signature sound that’s not only instantly recognizable but surprisingly influential.
Formed in 2013, the Chicago-based electronic duo consists of Robby Hauldren and Freddy Kennett. Though both artists were still in their teens when they met at a Madeon concert, their chemistry was immediate — and so was their ambition. Less than a decade later, Louis The Child has become one of the most innovative acts in the modern EDM scene, straddling the line between festival headliners and underground tastemakers.
Early Roots in Chicago’s DIY Scene
Before landing major label support or festival slots, Louis The Child was part of Chicago’s vibrant, DIY electronic and hip-hop underground. Kennett, a classically trained musician, had already been producing under the moniker Fatboy, while Hauldren was DJing house parties and experimenting with mashups. Their shared love of melodic soundscapes and accessible beats made their collaboration feel less like a calculated project and more like an organic evolution.
Their breakout moment came in 2015 with the release of “It’s Strange” featuring K.Flay — a genre-blending track that found viral traction on SoundCloud and eventually earned a placement in a high-profile Apple commercial. Even Taylor Swift gave the song a co-sign, adding it to one of her public playlists. That early attention helped launch Louis The Child into the mainstream consciousness without the need for traditional radio or label hype.
Sound Signature: Emotion, Energy, and Eclecticism
What separates Louis The Child from many of their EDM peers is their focus on emotional resonance over heavy drops or formulaic build-ups. Their production often incorporates airy synths, chopped vocal samples, and live instrumentation. Songs like “Better Not” with Wafia and “Love Is Alive” with Elohim exemplify their feel-good, euphoric aesthetic — accessible but never hollow.
At the same time, they’re not afraid to push boundaries. Tracks like “Little Things” show a darker, more glitch-inspired side, while their 2020 debut album Here for Now explored everything from hip-hop to house to alternative pop. The result is a sound that appeals to Gen Z’s genre-fluid tastes and thrives in both festival environments and headphone playlists.
DIY Ethos in a Corporate World
Despite growing success, Louis The Child has maintained a fiercely independent spirit. They are heavily involved in every aspect of their music — from songwriting and production to visuals and branding. They’ve used their platform to champion lesser-known artists and have collaborated with a diverse list of names including Quinn XCII, RAYE, and Foster the People.
Their live shows are equally distinctive. More than just button-pushers behind a DJ booth, Hauldren and Kennett have elevated their sets with live elements, custom visuals, and a sense of emotional intimacy rarely found in large-scale electronic performances. It’s not just about the bass drop — it’s about the full experience.
Cultural Impact: More Than Just the Music
Louis The Child has resonated with more than just EDM fans. Their music has been featured in commercials, television shows, and influencer-curated social media content. They’ve performed at top festivals including Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo, but have also engaged in philanthropic efforts, such as hosting benefit concerts and partnering with mental health organizations.
As the music industry continues to decentralize and democratize, acts like Louis The Child are redefining what it means to be a successful artist in the 2020s. They don’t rely on hit singles or viral dances — they build communities around vibes, values, and vulnerability.
What’s Next for Louis The Child?
With multiple tours under their belt and new music teased on social media, Louis The Child shows no signs of slowing down. Their adaptability in sound, coupled with their firm grasp on the digital music landscape, positions them to continue evolving alongside their audience — and ahead of the trends.
In an era where attention spans are short and music is commodified, Louis The Child offers something refreshing: authenticity, experimentation, and a genuine love for the craft. They aren’t just DJs. They’re sonic architects of a generation navigating a world that changes as fast as the beat drops.
