Kai Hansen is a founding member of German power metal pioneers Helloween, as well as being a founding member of power metal band Gamma Ray. After starting Helloween in 1983, Kai took a 28-year hiatus from the band. The band reunited in 2017, which resulted in their self-titled album, and they have been going strong ever since. Kai and Helloween have a new album called Giants & Monsters coming out on August 29th via Reigning Phoenix Music.
In this interview, Kai takes us through the writing process for Helloween and its seven band members. he tells us how they decide on songs, guitar parts, and vocal duties. Kai also talks about some of the lyrical themes and the influence of spirituality and sex on some of the songs. We also find out if Gamma Ray is still active, which songs in his historic catalog might best showcase who he is as a musician, and if we will see Helloween touring North America.
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Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!