Andrew W.K.

Andrew W.K. – Life, Music, and Inspiring Words

Andrew W.K. (born May 9, 1979) is an American rock musician, producer, author, and motivational speaker known for his anthemic party-rock style. Discover his journey, creativity, philosophy, and memorable quotes.

Introduction

Andrew Fetterly Wilkes-Krier, better known by his stage name Andrew W.K., is an American musician, songwriter, producer, motivational speaker, and author.

He gained widespread recognition for his energetic, uplifting brand of rock and pop-metal, part philosophy and part party anthem. His music often champions joy, resilience, and transcendence rather than despair.

Beyond music, Andrew W.K. has built a persona around positivity, lectures, writing, and creative ventures that blend performance and philosophy.

Early Life and Family

Andrew W.K. was born on May 9, 1979 in Stanford, California.

When he was about 4 years old, his family moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, which became the formative ground for his musical development.

His father, James E. Krier, is a legal scholar and professor. From an early age, Andrew studied piano—reportedly starting classical piano lessons at around age 5 through a music pedagogy program at the University of Michigan.

In school, he earned the moniker “Andrew W.K.” to distinguish him from other Andrews in his class.

During his teenage years, Andrew participated in various bands and musical experiments—playing drums, keyboards, guitar, collaborating in noise rock, punk, and experimental acts.

Musical Career & Achievements

Breakthrough & Signature Style

Andrew W.K. released his debut EP Girls Own Juice in 2000, introducing a raw, hedonistic rock sound. He rose to greater prominence with his 2001 album I Get Wet, whose lead single “Party Hard” became something of a signature anthem.

His style blends glam, metal, rock, and pop, often with bombastic instrumentation, high energy, and positive lyrical themes.

He followed with albums such as:

• The Wolf (2003)

• Close Calls with Brick Walls (2006)

• 55 Cadillac (2009) — a more introspective instrumental piano album

• You’re Not Alone (2018)

• God Is Partying (2021)

His recent work continues to lean into the philosophy behind the party ethos—celebrating life, connection, and transcendence.

Other Ventures & Creative Projects

Andrew W.K. is not limited to music. Some of his other creative and entrepreneurial ventures:

• Motivational speaking & self-help work: his public persona often blends rock with life philosophy.

• Writing and columns: he’s written advice columns, including one titled Ask Andrew W.K. and published The Party Bible which reflects his philosophy of celebration and resilience.

• Santos Party House: in 2008, Andrew co-founded a multi-level nightclub/live concert venue in Manhattan, designed for dance and live performance.

• Television and media appearances: he has hosted TV shows, appeared in guest spots, and engaged in variety of media roles.

Philosophy & Artistry

A hallmark of Andrew W.K.’s work is celebration as identity. His music often frames life as something to be celebrated, in spite of darkness or challenge.

He often explores the duality between chaos and clarity, authenticity and performance, the personal and the communal.

He dresses in all white (often intentionally messy or stained), a visual signature he maintains.

His public persona balances exuberance with sincerity, avoiding pretension and leaning into vulnerability.

Personal Life

Andrew W.K. was previously married to Cherie Lily (married 2008). They later separated, and as of 2023 he married Kat Dennings.

He has two children, though he keeps his private life relatively guarded.

Famous Quotes

Andrew W.K. is not widely known for short aphorisms, but there are lines from his work and interviews that capture his philosophy:

“Life is not a means to an end—rather, it is its own sacred fullness.” (paraphrase of his worldview)

“You’re here now. Now decide to party, now decide to live.”

“It’s not that you ignore the pain—but you celebrate in spite of it.”

“I believe in intensity — intensity as an antidote to despair.”

These reflect his persistent theme: that to live fully is to celebrate even amid darkness.