| Emily Kokal | |
| Birth Date: | September 30, 1980 |
| Birth Place: | Chico, California, U.S. |
| Years Active: | 2004–present |
Emily Camille Kokal (born September 30, 1980) is an American musician from Chico, California. She is best known as the singer and guitarist of the indie rock band Warpaint. Kokal is one of the founding members of the band.[1] [2]
Kokal was born in Chico, California. At age 10, she moved to Eugene, Oregon, where she met Theresa Wayman, with whom she would later start Warpaint.[3] The two traveled through Europe together in their late teenage years and lived together in New York and Los Angeles.[4] At age 19, Kokal met Jenny Lee Lindberg, another founding member of Warpaint, in LA.[5]
Kokal was the lead singer, guitarist and organist for a project called the Little Two's.[6] [7] In 2001, the band self-released their only album, titled World War IV.[8] In February 2004, Warpaint was formed in Los Angeles, with Kokal singing and playing guitar.[9] As of 2024, Kokal and Warpaint have released four albums and an EP.[10] On the forming of the band, Kokal stated in an interview: "I've always felt this about this band, that it felt blessed. It felt that the right paths were crossing at the right times and the stars were aligned".
Kokal has also made guest appearances as a singer, including singing the chorus in the Red Hot Chili Peppers' song "Desecration Smile".[11]
In 2017, Kokal and bandmate Wayman were voted the "Best Alternative Guitarists in the World Right Now" by MusicRadar and Total Guitar readers.[12]
Kokal was previously in a relationship with Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante.[13] Since 2013, Kokal has been in a relationship with LA-based producer j.franxis, of deafmute[14] and FACIAL, and they have a daughter together.[15] [16]
See main article: Warpaint discography.