Kungs, the stage name of French DJ and record producer Valentin Brunel, emerged as a global dance music phenomenon in the mid-2010s with his irresistibly sunny and sample-driven house tracks. A native of the south of France, he catapulted to international fame with the chart-topping single "This Girl," a track that defined the sound of a summer and established him as a leading figure in the mainstream electronica scene. His career, marked by platinum records and major festival appearances, showcases his skill at blending classic soul and funk elements with contemporary dance floor energy.
Born on December 17, 1996, in Aix-en-Provence and raised in Toulon, Valentin Brunel developed a passion for music early, learning to play the drums and guitar. His stage name, Kungs, was inspired by a childhood nickname. His foray into music production began as a teenager, experimenting with software in his bedroom. He initially gained some online attention by posting remixes and original productions on platforms like SoundCloud, honing a style that leaned heavily on uplifting piano house and disco-inflected grooves. This groundwork set the stage for his breakthrough.
The turning point arrived in 2016 with the release of "This Girl," a rework of the instrumental "This Girl" by Australian funk band Cookin' on 3 Burners. Kungs' version, which incorporated vocals from the original, became a viral and commercial juggernaut. It topped the charts in multiple countries across Europe, reached number two in the UK, and achieved platinum certifications worldwide. The track's success was rapid and overwhelming, leading to his debut album, Layers, released later that same year. The album capitalized on this momentum, featuring follow-up singles like "Don't You Know" with British singer Jamie N Commons and "I Feel So Bad" featuring Ephemerals.
Following his explosive entry into the music industry, Kungs solidified his status with consistent output and high-profile performances. He played at major festivals including Coachella and Tomorrowland, bringing his vibrant live sets to massive audiences. His subsequent singles, such as "More Mess" with Olly Murs and "Clap Your Hands" with Never Dull, continued to showcase his signature blend of sampled vocals and driving house beats. In 2021, he released his second studio album, Club Azur, which featured collaborations with artists like Channel Tres and Ricky Ducati, exploring slightly deeper and more varied electronic territories while maintaining his accessible, festival-ready sound. Kungs remains a prominent force in dance music, known for crafting anthems that bridge the gap between nostalgic warmth and modern club energy.