Can you share your musical journey with us, from when you first discovered your passion for music to where you are today as an independent musician?
My musical journey started when I was very young playing records for my parents in the living room. I was fascinated by the rhythms, the sounds, the beats. I’m still in love with music today and love creating music for my fans.
What motivates you to create music, and how do you stay inspired to continue making new and unique music?
I think what motivates and inspires me to keep making music is finding new sounds or coming up melodies and making something special with it.
As an independent musician, you wear many hats – from composing to marketing. How do you balance these different aspects of your career, and what challenges do you face in the process?
Well, we all know it’s a struggle to be an independent musician. Limited access + limited budget equals limited resources. You make the best of the situation by hoping your true fans and word of mouth spread your brand across to the market. Of course, having quality music helps too.
Could you tell us about your creative process? How do you come up with new ideas for songs, and how do you go about turning those ideas into finished tracks?
My process for making music is all over the place. I will have a melody in my head all day or hear a particular sound around my home or I just sit at the computer or keyboard and play around a bit. I know I have something special when I play the rough draft on loop and my feet start to tap the floor.
Independent musicians often face financial challenges. How do you manage your finances to sustain your music career while also covering your personal expenses?
It’s challenging as an independent musician to finance your dream. Luckily for me I still have a full-time job that helps support it.
Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging experience from your journey as a musician that has had a significant impact on your career and personal growth?
I am a huge Little Brother fan. They are a legendary hip-hop group from North Carolina. I had the pleasure of having one of their members, Rapper Big Pooh bless me with an intro on one of my first album releases. A dream comes true.
With the rise of digital platforms, the music industry has changed significantly. How do you navigate the digital landscape, including streaming services and social media, to promote your music and connect with your audience?
The landscape looks very different and is evolving each year. I have spent tons of money on social media promotions to reach my targeted audience with some success but not the explosion I wanted. But my music has evolved too so I think quality of music is so important in this journey as well.
Collaboration is a key part of the music industry. Have you worked with other musicians or producers, and how have these collaborations influenced your sound and career?
As I mentioned, I have worked with Rapper Big Pooh from Little Brother which we an amazing experience and my collab with my alias Strange Kaoz on some releases as well. Yes, it’s me.
Your music likely reflects your unique style and perspective. Could you describe your musical identity and what makes your sound stand out in a crowded industry?
I am a dance, house, techno music producer. I think my sound is uniquely different because I don’t follow any set style or template like other artists who are stuck in a specific genre. I may release an album or single that is trance or bass heavy, and the next release may be slower and melodic tunes.
What role does live performance play in your music career, and how do you approach planning and executing your live shows, especially in light of recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic?
I have never been on a tour or performed live in a show. I wouldn’t want to do it on a regular basis, but I would like to have that experience. Touring is key to gaining loyal fans for sure.
Many fans are interested in the stories behind the songs. Could you share the backstory or inspiration behind one of your recent tracks that holds special meaning to you?
My latest release RESET is a collection of songs that I made in the mindset of restarting my journey or reintroducing myself to the world. Every song has a meaning and theme that is about cherishing life, earth, and self-love.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations as an independent musician? Are there any upcoming projects or exciting developments in your career that you’d like to share with your fans and the audience?
Go and support my new album RESET in stores January 19th and my single Heavy Hearts on February 9th. Thanks for the opportunity to share my story and thanks again for rocking with me.
