Hey, music lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a track that’ll get your heart racing and your body moving, buckle up because Violet Chachki and Gottmik’s debut duo single, TKO, is here to deliver a high-energy punch. This electro-pop banger, infused with bass house and electro house vibes, is the ultimate addition to your workout playlist. It’s fierce, it’s fun, and it’s 100% independent—straight from two of drag’s most iconic queens. Let’s dive into why TKO is the track you didn’t know you needed and why it’s perfect for slaying your gym sesh or dance floor.
A Fierce Collaboration That Packs a Punch
Violet Chachki, the Season 7 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Gottmik, the trailblazing trans star from Season 13, have teamed up for their first-ever joint single, and TKO is a total knockout. Released on July 31, 2025, this track is a vibrant blend of electro-pop’s catchy melodies, bass house’s pulsating low-end, and electro house’s electrifying energy. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to crank up the volume, lace up your sneakers, and strut like you’re on the main stage. The duo’s chemistry—described as family-like, complete with playful bickering—shines through, giving TKO a raw, authentic edge that’s as bold as their drag personas.
The production, helmed by Nightfeelings and Novodor, is a masterclass in high-octane dance music. Nightfeelings, who’s worked with Gottmik on her solo projects, brings a polished yet rebellious sound, while Novodor adds a layer of LA’s underground club energy. The result? A track that’s equal parts glamorous and gritty, with driving beats and synths that hit like a right hook. Violet herself described it as “electroclash” with a modern twist, carving out a unique niche that feels fresh yet nostalgic, perfect for fans of artists like Lady Gaga or Madonna’s dancier eras.
Lyrically and visually, TKO leans into a combat sports theme, inspired by the duo’s playful “fights” and their upcoming Knockout Tour. The music video, a sweaty, corset-clad spectacle shot in sweltering conditions, features Violet and Gottmik throwing punches (and shade) while lifting real weights and rocking Swarovski crystal boxing gloves. It’s camp, it’s fierce, and it’s a testament to their commitment to pushing drag into new artistic territory. If you’re into music that feels like a performance, this is it.
The Artists Behind the Anthem
For those new to the scene, Violet Chachki (aka Jason Dardo) is a drag superstar known for her fetish-inspired aesthetic, aerial performances, and high-fashion collabs with brands like Prada and Jean Paul Gaultier. Since winning Drag Race in 2015, she’s dropped tracks like Bettie and Mistress Violet with Allie X, always blending her love for vintage pin-up vibes with cutting-edge sounds. Gottmik, a makeup artist turned drag icon, made history as the first trans man on Drag Race, bringing a dark-synth edge with tracks like Skullfucker. Together, their No Gorge podcast and joint projects showcase their shared passion for fashion, art, and pushing boundaries.
TKO is a natural extension of their creative synergy, born from late-night studio sessions and a mutual love for queer nightlife culture. As independent artists, they’ve poured their hearts (and wallets) into this project, making your support crucial to keeping their vision alive. The track’s release alongside their Knockout Tour announcement—a 50-city spectacle with aerialists and live vocals—proves they’re not just here to play; they’re here to dominate.
Why TKO Is Your New Workout Playlist Must-Have
Let’s talk about why TKO is tailor-made for your workout routine. Its relentless electro beats and bass-heavy drops provide the perfect tempo for cardio, weightlifting, or even a high-energy dance session. Think of it as the musical equivalent of a pre-workout shot—intense, motivating, and ready to push you through that last set. The song’s infectious energy aligns with the current trend of workout playlists leaning into electronic and dance genres, as seen in popular Spotify curations like Violet’s own MusicMagic.io playlist, packed with electropop and dance pop bangers.
The track’s vibe also taps into the growing popularity of bass house and electro house in fitness culture, where pulsating rhythms keep you locked in. Whether you’re running, cycling, or throwing punches in a boxing class, TKO’s driving beat and fierce attitude will have you feeling like a champion. Plus, its campy, drag-inspired flair adds a layer of fun that makes every rep feel like a performance. Add it to your playlist alongside tracks like Lady Gaga’s Heavy Metal Lover or Madonna’s Celebration (Benny Benassi Remix) for a mix that’s equal parts sweat and slay.
Support Independent Artistry with TKO
As 100% independent artists, Violet and Gottmik are doing it all themselves—from funding the music video to planning their massive tour. Supporting TKO means supporting queer creativity and drag artistry at its boldest. Stream it on Spotify, add it to your workout playlist, and share it with your friends to help these queens keep pushing the envelope. And if you’re an artist looking to get your own music out there, DistroKid makes it easy to distribute your tracks to major platforms—and you’ll get 7% off your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s a win-win for independent musicians everywhere!
Let’s Hear From You!
What do you think of TKO’s high-energy vibes? Is it your new go-to for crushing your workouts or dancing the night away? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s kiki about this fierce track! And if you’re loving Violet and Gottmik’s energy, check out their No Gorge podcast for more tea and inspiration.
