The Knocks: The Architects of Modern Dance-Pop

The Knocks are an American electronic music production and DJ duo from New York City. Known for their slick, sample-heavy sound, they have carved out a distinct space in the dance-pop landscape through a consistent stream of infectious singles and high-profile collaborations.

Early career

Formed in 2008, the duo consists of Ben "B-Roc" Ruttner and James "JPatt" Patterson, who met while studying at The New School in Manhattan. They derived their name from early complaints about the loud knock of their bass-heavy productions disturbing neighbors. Their initial rise was fueled by a series of popular remixes for artists like Foster the People and Ellie Goulding, establishing their reputation as skilled studio craftsmen.

Breakthrough

The Knocks' breakthrough into mainstream recognition accelerated with the release of their 2016 debut album, 55, on HeavyRoc Music. The album featured the singles Classic with Powers and I Wish (My Taylor Swift), which showcased their signature blend of funky disco-house and modern pop sensibilities. This period solidified their status as go-to producers and performers within the electronic music scene.

Key tracks

Classic - This 2014 single became their signature anthem, perfectly encapsulating their retro-futuristic disco sound and earning widespread club and radio play.

I Wish (My Taylor Swift) - A standout from their debut album, this track demonstrated their knack for witty, sample-driven pop hooks.

Ride or Die featuring Foster the People - This 2018 collaboration highlighted their ability to merge indie-pop appeal with dancefloor-ready production.

Bodies featuring MUNA - A later release that underscored their continued relevance in crafting sleek, vocal-forward dance music.

The duo has maintained a prolific output, following 55 with albums like New York Narcotic in 2018 and History in 2022. Their work is characterized by a wide array of collaborations with vocalists and artists across genres, including Sofi Tukker, Walk the Moon, and Cold War Kids. This collaborative approach has been central to The Knocks' evolving sound, allowing them to explore variations within their established dance-pop framework while consistently delivering polished, energetic records.

Fans of The Knocks' vibrant, collaborative style may also enjoy the dance-pop fusion of R3HAB, the upbeat electronic productions of Gryffin, the funky disco-house vibe of Purple Disco Machine, and the catchy, sample-based pop of Saint Motel.