Kapri On the Making Of “High Stakes (No Wonder)”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "High Stakes (No Wonder)" and the story it tells?
"High Stakes (No Wonder)" is about self-sabotage and self-destruction, and learning how to do better in relationships. It’s about trusting that we can help each other grow and recognizing that not every misstep has to mean the end of something good. Sometimes we trip, but that doesn’t mean we have to fall apart. The song reflects that journey of growth—understanding that vulnerability is strength and learning to stay in the fight instead of walking away.
Can you talk about any collaborations you had while making this single?
I was lucky to collaborate with Indio Downey, whose guitar work truly brought this song to life. His melodic lines are pure magic—he has this incredible ability to express through guitar what I try to express with words. He’s an artist who really understands the emotional core of a song and amplifies it with such finesse. I also worked with Piotr Zegzula, one of Poland’s leading mixing engineers. His knowledge and experience were beyond helpful in achieving the perfect balance between raw emotion and polished pop elements. It was such a privilege to have him help shape the final sound of "High Stakes."
How do you feel "High Stakes (No Wonder)" represents your artistic identity?
This song is a reflection of the new sound I’m exploring as a solo artist. It’s basically a musical introduction to the direction I’m headed with my upcoming releases. Everything will still have that pop vibe, especially in the vocal melodies, but with heavier guitars, more attitude, and a touch of mysticism and magic. In future songs, listeners may even catch elements of Polish folk music and Polish language, though most of my lyrics have been and will continue to be in English.
"High Stakes" is a complete departure from my previous song, "Dollar $ong," which was much more pop-driven. But listeners can still expect some of my signature witty and ironic lyrics—those are my favorite parts to write and the foundation around which I build the rest of the song.
What has been the most memorable experience or achievement in your music career so far?
Winning a Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Lyrics for "Dollar $ong" was definitely a highlight, as was receiving the DCA Mayor of Los Angeles Award for "We Used to Go Outside." Collaborating on "Dollar $ong" with Butch Walker was a dream come true, and working with Indio Downey is always inspiring—I hope he’ll make a guest appearance on some of my future songs!
But honestly, one of the most rewarding parts of this journey is just writing songs and seeing them come to life. Taking something that exists in my head and turning it into something tangible is incredibly fulfilling. And getting to share that with other people is even better.
What is your songwriting process like? How do you usually start crafting a new song?
It always starts with a spark—a lyric, a melody, or even just a vibe I can’t shake. Most of my songs begin with the lyrics—usually the hook, one line that sets the idea and tone for the rest of the song. Sometimes I come up with the lyrics and melody for the hook simultaneously, and those songs tend to come together the fastest.
Once I have the hook, I usually finish the lyrics first and then build the melody around them. When the melody is done, I design the chords and dive into production. That process can take anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the song. The instrumentation and order of creation always vary—it’s different every time! There are definitely songs that start with melody first for me, but it’s more of a surprise than a habit.
