Kungs: The French DJ and Producer Behind Global Dance Hits

Kungs is a French DJ and record producer who rose to international fame with his 2016 hit "This Girl." Hailing from the French Riviera, his breakthrough single became a global phenomenon, topping charts across Europe and achieving multi-platinum certifications in several countries, establishing him as a leading name in mainstream house music.

Early Career

Born Valentin Brunel in 1996 in Toulon, France, Kungs began exploring music production in his early teens. He started uploading his early electronic tracks and remixes to online platforms, slowly building an initial following with his blend of house and pop sounds before his career accelerated dramatically.

Breakthrough

Kungs' career exploded in 2016 with the release of "This Girl," a rework of a track by Cookin' on 3 Burners featuring vocals. The song became a viral and radio smash, reaching number one in multiple European countries including France and Germany, and climbing into the Top 10 in the UK. The track's success led to his debut album, "Layers," released later that year, which further solidified his place in the dance music scene.

Key Tracks

This Girl - The track that launched Kungs to global fame, becoming a summer anthem and a multi-platinum chart-topper across Europe.

Never Going Home - A subsequent single that continued his run of success, showcasing his signature blend of upbeat house rhythms and catchy vocal samples.

Disco Night - A track highlighting his ability to craft instrumental dance music with a nostalgic, funky edge.

Following the massive success of "Layers," Kungs continued to release music and perform internationally. He has collaborated with artists like JP Cooper and Julia Church, demonstrating a consistent ability to produce accessible, radio-friendly house music. His sound, while evolving, remains rooted in the sunny, melodic French touch and mainstream house that first defined his career.

Artists with a similar style or trajectory include the French producer Ofenbach, who also blends classic samples with modern house. The Swedish duo Galantis shares a focus on big, melodic dance-pop hooks. For another French act in the electronic space, consider Petit Biscuit, who offers a more downtempo, melodic take.