Kesha’s Taking Control and Dismantling the Music Industry’s Dark Secrets
In a powerful new profile, pop star Kesha opened up about her plans to disrupt the music industry and reclaim her creative freedom. Following the settlement of her long-standing legal battle with Dr. Luke in 2023, Kesha is now free from the contract that stifled her for years. She’s launched her own label, Kesha Records, and is preparing to take the industry by storm.

“I don’t believe you can create if you’re not feeling safe,” Kesha told Elle magazine, as she discussed the creation of a new digital platform with the help of tech industry professionals. The platform, she says, will prioritize artists’ safety in an industry long dominated by secrecy. “The old guard, they’re falling. The old way of doing everything with secrecy—there’s no future there. So, like, those of you with deep, dark secrets, you better f–king run.”
Kesha’s warning to the industry gatekeepers is crystal clear: “The music industry should be f–king terrified of me. I’m about to make some major moves and shift this s–t. I really want to dismantle it piece by piece and shine light into every corner. I hope my legacy is making sure it never happens to anybody ever again.”
Having launched her independent label in partnership with Warner Music’s ADA for distribution, Kesha is now in full control of her music. She’s working with top producers, including A.G. Cook and Zhone, and has already released her new single “Joyride,” which reflects her journey to freedom.
“Joyride” came together shortly after her lawsuit settlement, and in the aftermath of a breakup with someone she believed was using her for fame. “I decided to test that theory and took one of my friends to Taylor Swift’s party instead of him,” Kesha explained. “He came over the next day and broke up with me.”
As she takes full ownership of her narrative, Kesha is determined to shine a light on the darker corners of the music industry, ensuring that future artists signed to her label can work in an environment that values transparency and integrity.
“My name has become synonymous with transparency, integrity, and safety,” Kesha said. “Music has the power to connect the world, and I aspire for my work to be a beacon of light and goodness. I am excited to take control of my narrative and rewrite my story in the music business.”