AKA BK is a Los Angeles-based band led by singer and songwriter Brooklynn (BK), with bassist, vocalist, and visual-art collaborator Cecile Herledan.

The project brings together longtime friendship, post-grunge energy, sweet harmonies, and a DIY approach shaped by their roots in Metro Detroit.

Recorded at SXSW 2026, BK and Cecile speak with TMN creator Micah Bierman about knowing each other since kindergarten, playing in their first band as kids, taking different paths, and eventually reconnecting in Los Angeles.

AKA BK grew out of BK’s solo project after Cecile left Chicago to join her—quite literally after being laid off the day after visiting. They discuss building the current band, finding musicians who fit both creatively and personally, and how collaboration has changed the project’s sound.

Cecile’s backing vocals have opened up a new palette for the songs: placing soft, angelic harmonies inside heavier post-grunge and new-wave textures.

AKA BK also shares how its songwriting process is evolving. Their current EP was largely written before the band fully came together, while newer material is being developed more collectively—including “Mush,” which they recorded live in a room, in an old-school rock-band setup.

The conversation moves through the inspirations behind “Mush,” from Taco Bell to Pixies and Gregg Araki’s Nowhere. BK and Cecile also reflect on Detroit’s deeply rooted DIY culture, the differences they found in Los Angeles, and why independent spaces matter for artists and audiences outside the commercial music industry.

They close with a direct message for emerging artists: do not wait for the perfect moment. Make work with your friends, take the leap, embrace the difficult days along with the wins, and keep moving.

Read the full interview with AKA BK on our blog.

📍 Recorded at SXSW 2026

🎙️ Interview by Micah Bierman

📸 Photo by Micah Bierman

🎤 Brooklynn (BK) — Lead singer, songwriter, and creative visionary

🎸 Cecile Herledan — Bassist and co-puppeteer for the project’s visual art

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