AIRPORTS – NEED U HERE

By starrymag | August 22, 2023

By: Dianca Yssel

 

 

Q) Your sound is described as an exploration of different sonic horizons, innovatively combining punk, EDM and drum and bass. How did your sound come about?

A) I used to have a DJ/EDM producer career, but also grew up in punk bands and hip-hop groups and also became a pop producer guy in later years. So, I guess it’s a mixed bag over here!

 

Q) Your music is a journey into self-awareness, telling the story of how you have overcome battles with loss and life-threatening illnesses. How have the challenges of your past influenced the musician you are today?

A) Everything we experience shapes who we become, whether negatively or positively – the music is just the outlet while enduring those challenges and changes.

 

Q) Who are your musical influences and what about these artists resonate with you?

A) I’ve noticed my favorite artists tend to be ones that change the course of sound trends in popular music. It started with Michael Jackson (Thriller & Bad albums specifically), then Blink 182 (changing punk emo) and then Skrillex (changing EDM).

 

Q) What is your creative process when making new music? Do you need lyrics before adding music?

A) It can come either way, but I often like to nail the chorus first!

 

Q) Congratulations on the release of your latest single “NEED U HERE.” This emotion-fuelled song speaks to the theme of loss, both that of a loved one and of identity. What inspired this theme?

A) Thank you. Loss of a person, a relationship and self. Sonically I wanted to mix punk rock with dnb.

 

Q) What advice can you give to others currently dealing with elements of loss in their life?

A) Grief comes in waves, allow yourself to sit in and feel all emotions no matter how hard (this helps it leave your nervous system healthily) and knowing it’s a retraining of your neurplasticity – that that person or thing is not longer accessible how they once were.

 

Q) With “NEED U HERE” you have created a tasteful blend of pop punk and drum and base. Where did the inspiration to combine these two sonic worlds come from for the song?

A) I’ve always loved what Pendulum achieved with their rock meets drum and bass sound. And I always felt Pop Punk and DnB had similar tempos so I wanted to try it for awhile.

 

Q) What do you hope your fans will take away or lingers with them when listening to “NEED U HERE?”

A) As long as they connect with it, what it means to each individual will differ.

 

Q) Will you be releasing a full album or EP in the near future?

A) Yes and Yes, TBC.

 

Q) Your music has garnered acclaim from media outlets like Wonderland, Popdust, Earmilk, Live Nation’s “Ones To Watch” and Culture Collide, as well as plays on leading radio stations including George FM, ZM, Triple J & Kiiss FM. What is your secret to getting people to take note of your music?

A) Having a good product and making the right relationships for sure.

 

Q) You are also a sought-after writer/producer for clients like Multi-Platinum JPOP group ARASHI, award winning projects for viral artists and global brands such as Coca-Cola & Fanta. Is writing/producing for other artists or brands something you will be pursuing more of in future?

A) I definitely like it, but primarily would love to focus on AIRPORTS at the moment.

 

Q) You have collaborated with the likes of RILEY, Kelsey Gill, Roux and YungAaronn. Which artist(s) would you love to collaborate with on a song in future?

A) I’m hoping to collaborate with heavier and/or punk bands and more dance producers tbh.

 

Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters of the music that you make?

A) Thank you for listening to little old me!! :))) It means the world, I appreciate it.