Julia Kate, a rising singer-songwriter from Sherman Oaks, CA, delivers an electrifying and emotionally charged anthem with her latest single, Fake Friends. Released in January 2025, the track seamlessly blends the infectious energy of 80s female-led New Wave with sharp, contemporary lyricism, creating a song that feels both nostalgic and undeniably relevant. Inspired by Blondie’s Debbie Harry and infused with the theatrical spirit of Chappell Roan, Fake Friends is an unapologetic declaration against the superficiality of modern social dynamics.
At its core, Fake Friends is a love letter to 80s New Wave icons like Blondie, The Go-Go’s, The Bangles, and The Pretenders. Julia Kate’s admiration for these trailblazing artists is evident in the track’s pulsing rhythms, bright synths, and punchy melodies. However, while the song’s sonic landscape evokes the era of big hair and neon lights, its lyrical content is firmly grounded in the complexities of 2025.
With the rise of social media, the concept of “fake friends” has become more relevant than ever—almost everyone has experienced the sting of a two-faced friend, someone who smiles in person but speaks negatively behind the scenes. Julia Kate captures this universal experience with striking honesty, singing, “All I know is fake friends make me feel so alone.”The contrast between the upbeat, danceable instrumentation and the raw, cutting lyrics creates a dynamic listening experience that feels both cathartic and anthemic.
Unlike her previous single Beverly Hills, which was inspired by specific experiences, Julia Kate describes Fake Friendsas a reflection of her broad musical influences rather than a personal incident. The song’s inception traces back to two years ago when her Uncle Craig took her to a Blondie concert at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Already a devoted fan—her Debbie Harry poster has been hanging in her room since high school—this concert reignited her passion for female-led New Wave, setting the creative wheels in motion for what would eventually become Fake Friends.
The track was co-written and produced by Nick Rosen and recorded in Los Angeles during the summer of 2024. With its carefully curated mix of nostalgia and modernity, Fake Friends stands as a testament to Julia Kate’s ability to honor her inspirations while forging a unique artistic identity.
Julia Kate is no stranger to the music scene. A student at Berklee College of Music, she has been steadily building her career, gaining recognition with previous releases like Beverly Hills and her two EPs, Just a Kid (2022) and Yearbook(2023). Her music, influenced by artists like Taylor Swift, Lorde, Billie Eilish, and Lana Del Rey, showcases a wide-ranging sensibility that allows her to experiment while staying true to her storytelling roots.
Fake Friends represents an exciting evolution in her sound—bold, unfiltered, and confident. The song’s release comes at an exciting time, as Julia Kate is set to open for the legendary 80s band Missing Persons at the Whisky a Go-Go in Los Angeles this May. This opportunity further solidifies her connection to the New Wave scene, bridging the gap between past and present.
With Fake Friends, Julia Kate delivers a song that is both a throwback and a statement of modern identity. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance while simultaneously reflecting on the nature of friendships in the digital age. The vibrant production, sharp lyrics, and Julia Kate’s effortlessly cool vocals make this single an undeniable standout in her growing discography.
Whether you’re a fan of 80s New Wave, a lover of introspective pop, or someone navigating the complexities of friendships in the age of social media, Fake Friends is a must-listen. With her ability to blend vintage influences with contemporary themes, Julia Kate is proving that she’s not just an artist to watch—she’s an artist here to stay.
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