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I sit down with Wez Saunders to explore his remarkable journey from working in a bank to becoming the CEO & Co-Owner of a Defected Records. We talk about his vision for Defected, the challenges of navigating the ever-changing music industry, and how he's managed to balance the label’s rich heritage with forward-thinking innovation.
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Community: How Defected has built an enduring culture around house music that unites fans, artists, and industry professionals worldwide.A&R Strategies That Work: Insights into identifying talent, maintaining artistic integrity, and keeping the label relevant in a crowded market.Lessons in Leadership: Wez shares his approach to steering a global brand, balancing creativity with business acumen.Adapting to Industry Changes: How Defected embraces new technologies like AI and leverages social media to stay ahead.Advice for Aspiring Music Professionals: The importance of focusing on quality, building your identity, and being patient on your journey to success.Wez also opens up about the challenges and opportunities in the modern music industry, from the evolving role of labels to the impact of festivals and events on artist careers. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration to fuel your journey in music.
Defected Records has been a cornerstone of house music its inception in 1999, founded by Simon Dunmore. Since then Defected has evolved, with 26 sub-labels, a thriving events business, an agency, a publishing company, and more, Defected continues to lead from the front.
BEST MOMENTS
"Simon said to me, I believe you could sell me this pen. And I didn't really understand what he meant at the time. Thought he was saying I was a blagger, but probably was."
"Life is short and it's, it's about creating those moments that, that last a lifetime. And I think we've done that a lot and I hope that we continue to do that a lot."
"Be better than the person you were yesterday. That's, for me, has always been the thing that's echoed in my mind. Don't be competitive. Just figure out what you've done and how you can be better."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode Roger Sanchez
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Bexxie is a house music producer and DJ whose 90s-influenced sound is lighting up the electronic music scene. With millions of streams and a reputation for blending modern dance vibes with an old-school edge, Bexxie has built a career defined by passion, persistence, and connection.
In this episode, Bexxie shares her journey from discovering her love for electronic music through her parents' vinyl collection to carving her own path in the industry. We explore how she transitioned from drum and bass to house music, the challenges of re-entering the scene after a hiatus, and the key lessons she's learned along the way.
Key Takeaways
The importance of consistency in music production and social media.Why breaks can lead to renewed focus and creativity.Building connections with labels and the value of networking.How personal growth can impact your music career.Strategies to maintain self-belief and stay grounded in a chaotic industry.Bexxie also opens up about her production techniques, her approach to social media, and her advice for aspiring producers. From overcoming self-doubt to making your music stand out, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone passionate about electronic music.
KEY MOMENTS
"I’ve always just loved music. Even as a kid, I was just very curious about everything music."
"In hindsight, I think I just didn’t have the belief in myself as I do now, coming back into it."
"This industry can be such a roller coaster, but if you can stay grounded within the chaos, it’s going to be so helpful."
"You absolutely have to put in the work. Some days you’re not going to feel like doing it, but you have to grind to make it."
"For me, it’s about the connection I get through music with other people - that’s what keeps me going."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode Made By Pete
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW Instagram
Lex Luca Instagram
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Fehlende Folgen?
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Global DJ and producer Flashmob is best known for his groundbreaking releases on labels like Defected and Hot Creations, Flashmob has built a brilliant career with hit records and club anthems that have shaped Ibiza’s dance floors and the global house music scene. But it wasn’t always a smooth journey - in fact, his path has been one of constant reinvention and resilience.
Flashmob shares his story of rediscovering his passion during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that became a turning point in his life and career. He opens up about stepping back from the relentless pace of touring to reconnect with his purpose, allowing him to dive deeper into music with a fresh perspective. His journey is a testament to the power of authenticity & resilience, and highlights the importance of having the courage to follow your own creative path.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The importance of putting feelings into music and making it personalHow to overcome the pressure of maintaining a specific soundBalancing touring life with creative outputThe power of discipline and hard work in achieving successStrategies for effective collaboration and production workflowsThis episode is about reclaiming your creative freedom and building a career that’s true to who you are. Get ready to redefine what success means on your own terms.
BEST MOMENTS
The mindset is your biggest tool. For me, the mindset of, well, being extremely organized, that's a mindset, it's a job. And you have to believe in what you do and you have to believe that it will work for you and that it will improve everything that you do to oblige yourself to do it.
You're on your own trajectory and like many others, and you just do your own thing. You just do your own thing. No matter how hard it gets, which it does, just always try to refresh the happiness in doing it.
I decided to be faithful to myself and to what I wanted from music and what I wanted from myself once and for all, to be strong enough to say, okay, going to do my own thing. I'm going to do an album that is completely crazy. I'm going to do releases that are just not what you're expecting from me.
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Ros T
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW Instagram
Lex Luca Instagram
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Rinzen is an electronic music producer and DJ known for his cinematic approach to techno and his drive to create immersive, narrative-based worlds through sound. His journey from a college dorm DJ to a sought-after producer offers fascinating insights into the creative process and the mindset needed to succeed in the industry.
We explore Rinzen’s methods for maintaining a high level of creativity, his routines for maximizing focus, and his approach to balancing the demands of touring with the discipline of studio work. He reveals his strategies for consistent artistic growth, including the role of patience, the importance of uninterrupted studio time, and the value of seeking out inspiration across different art forms.
Key Takeaways
Quality Over Quantity in Creative WorkThe Power of Routine for Creative FlowHow to Create with an Audience in Mind—Without Losing Your Artistic IntegrityNetworking and Relationship-Building in the IndustryStaying Grounded and InspiredKey Moments
“Get so good at what you do that they can’t ignore you. Focus on the craft, and the rest will follow.”
"I don't find joy in repeating myself...I need to explore something different every time.
"Patience is everything in this journey. The more you can dedicate yourself to quality, the more fulfilling the path becomes."
For me, the entire journey of a music producer centers around mastering the craft of production of making music. I am a forever student, so I'm constantly learning and developing my skills.
Success is such a paradox because … at a certain point you get successful and you realize you've become like a professional person who responds to email
I'm big into, like, gratitude, practice, and just thinking every day, like, just you're. You're lucky just to be alive, you know, I think any day you have is a blessing. Any, like, extra day or whatever is. It's all a gift.
I'm generally at the mindset most of your goals can be accomplished by getting really f*&king good at making music. You know, that's been my approach my entire career and everything else is usually out of your control.
Amore fati. Like, whatever happens today, I love that this is happening because there's something to be gained from it.
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Made By Pete
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Made By Pete is a London-based producer and DJ who has been rising steadily to the top of the electronic music scene. Made By Pete has set himself apart through a unique approach to music that champions playfulness and exploration.
Expect to learn how he keeps the creative spark alive and navigates industry pressures while staying true to his sound. Made By Pete shares why he’s constantly pushing his own boundaries and what he does to stay inspired. He shares invaluable insights on balancing artistic evolution with audience expectations, the power of a good listening environment, and why playfulness is essential in the studio.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The importance of playfulness and experimentation in music creationStrategies for staying authentic under industry pressuresHow to build a sustainable career without compromising on artistic visionTips for designing a productive and inspiring studio spacePractical advice for aspiring producers and DJs looking to make a markThis episode is packed with actionable advice for you to take into your own creative process.
BEST MOMENTS
"Great music is all about ideas... you can be a perfect technician, but music without emotion falls flat."
“I’ve learned not to pressure myself to make a track every day. Some days, I just create new sounds or make patches—keeping it playful, without the expectation.”
“There’s nothing wrong with breaking rules—just make sure you’re breaking them in ways you believe in.”
"The best ideas are always the simple ones."
"I love photography, I love design. There’s so many times that I’ve looked at an image and thought, 'That’s what I want my music to sound like.'”
"Collaboration is a good way of finding new inspiration and learning new techniques, especially from people who use [tools] differently than you."
"Everyone loves having loads of stuff… but it’s about understanding what you have and knowing the best things you can get out of it."
"Having a source of income outside of music helped me avoid taking gigs I didn’t want or remixes just to pay bills."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Kidnap
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Kidnap is a celebrated electronic music producer known for blending evocative melodies with rich, atmospheric soundscapes. With millions of streams to his name and a reputation for crafting deeply moving tracks, Kidnap has just released his 2nd album Something Lost, Something Gained.
Expect to learn about Kidnap’s creative process, how he finds inspiration beyond music, and the mindset that has driven his journey from a bedroom producer to an internationally recognised artist. Kidnap shares his personal approach to learning and developing his sound including his technique of starting with harmony and melody on the piano to translating those ideas into digital production.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The power of starting with harmony and melody before adding drumsHow to overcome creative blocks and find inspiration beyond musicBalancing technical skills with intuition in the studioThe challenges and rewards of releasing full-length albums in the streaming eraKidnap’s strategies to mastering his artKidnap also opens up about the importance of building a supportive community and shares practical advice for emerging producers. This episode is filled with valuable lessons and real-world insights from one of the most talented music producers on the planet.
BEST MOMENTS
"I like to try to develop this evocative, nostalgic sound. The focus for me is always harmony based. So every piece of music I'm starting starts as a harmonic structure and then I'm fleshing that out first."
"I would say really focus on building community around yourself..... I feel like there's a huge amount of value in ... existing in an ecosystem whereby people around you are ... all involved in the same kind of goal of making and releasing music."
"I always start writing by picking apart other pieces of music. And often I'll do that for two or three pieces. I might just sit down and be like, oh, I heard this, this song that I liked recently. Let's just try and work it out on the piano"
"Never ever start with a blank slate. I feel like if I have a blank piece of paper in front of me, so to speak, it's just quite daunting."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/41TxD7AfLModEzxhb6Tr9k?si=57b83806a4fd4c54
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode Ros T
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The incredible Kelli Leigh, a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter behind some of the biggest dance tracks over the last 10 years is our guest this week.
Kelli Leigh shares her journey as an artist, songwriter, and vocalist, exploring the highs and lows of the music industry, offering invaluable insights on how she's carved out her own path in the industry. She offers practical advice on songwriting, vocal techniques, and maintaining creativity in a demanding industry.for both established and emerging artists.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Kelli Leigh’s pre-recording rituals for vocal and mental preparationTechniques for overcoming self-doubt and staying motivatedThe importance of finding your unique sound and voiceNavigating the challenges of being an uncredited vocalistStrategies for building a successful career as an independent artistThis conversation provides an honest look at the realities of pursuing a career in music and the importance of advocating for yourself as an artist.
BEST MOMENTS
“I wouldn't be here chatting to you today if I hadn't decided to back myself."
"Believe in yourself deeply, because the days when no one else will, you're the one. And your own self belief will be the thing that makes you keep going and step forward."
“How can you, as a creative, create from the ground? It's like, when you're down there and you're so low, how are you supposed to reach places of highs to bring that energy? He was like, you need rest. You need to take this time out and heal yourself and get yourself into a better space so you can rise back up again.”
“Don't wait for someone to open doors. You do need to start creating them. You need to be putting yourself ..... online. And I talk about a lot about self releasing. You know, I was an independent artist for years. I still am an independent artist even though my current single is signed to an indie label itself.”
“The devaluation of singers on dance music has to stop. It's not cool. It doesn't make you look cool. It makes you look like a dickhead, in my opinion.”
VALUABLE RESOURCES
You Know My Voice Podcast
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Camden Cox
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ros T is an electronic music producer from Scotland, whose debut album Teach Me reached #1 on the iTunes chart earlier this year. Ros shares his experiences growing up in a tight-knit island community and how it shaped his musical perspective. Ros talks us through the creative processes behind his music,, the challenges he’s faced, and the pivotal moments that have defined his career.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Ross's unique approach to music production and how he balances emotion with technical skillThe story behind his hit track "Out the Fire" and its journey to successInsights into the making of his debut album and his collaboration with Perfect HavocHow he manages his creative process and maintains productivity in the studioThe impact of personal loss on his music and how he channels emotions into his work"I need to feel something from it. And that's where a lot of my stuff's quite emotive in that, because I need to feel something from it."
Ross T is carving his own path in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration, from one of the industry's most respected. Get inspired to push your own creative boundaries.
BEST MOMENTS
Without [my mum's] knowledge and love of music, like, we wouldn't be having this conversation right now. There'd be no album, there'd be no anything.
Forget about all that rubbish, focus on the music and by all means, promote yourself on socials. But the music's the most important thing.
All you need to do is just make the one tune that connects. Like, you could have 50,000 followers, you can have 20 followers, you could have started making music last week, you could have been making music for 40 years. If you just make that tune, if that tune is good enough, you send it to the label and the label does hear it and it is that good, they will sign it.
Focus wholeheartedly on the music, just enjoying it and doing that before you start really being like, I need to get signed and then free. Don't worry too much about saying I need to be signed because I was unsigned for years, happily just doing my thing
I can't really make happy music because it's, like my outlet, I suppose when I fully get over some stuff. Maybe I'll be like, right, sweet. I can make some really happy stuff.
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode Dave Lee
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Have you ever wondered what it's like to have complete creative control over your music? In this episode, I sit down with the legendary Dave Lee, a true icon in the electronic music scene, know best for his pseudonym Joey Negro to explore the ins and outs of his 30 year career.
Dave shares his journey from the early days of Glam rock to becoming a powerhouse in the house and disco world. He opens up about the freedom he now enjoys in his career, making music on his own terms and bringing his wildest ideas to life.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Insights into Dave's creative process, from initial ideas to finished productsThe art of remixing and re-editing classic tracks for modern dancefloorsThe importance of trusting your instincts and being honest with yourself about your workTips for emerging artists on navigating the music industry and protecting their rightsStrategies for overcoming creative blocks and finding inspiration in unexpected placesThe value of owning your music rights and building a strong back catalogWhether you're an aspiring producer, a seasoned DJ, or simply a music enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration, from one of the industry's most respected figures.
BEST MOMENTS
"I would say the most exciting thing that's happening is that I've got to a point in my career where I'm kind of doing what I want."
"Just to follow your gut. Follow your gut instincts about things. If you've worked on a piece of music and you don't think it's right or you think it's great or there's somebody you're working with, you're not really sure if it's, you know, the synergy's there or you're not happy. You know, I just think, follow your gut instincts."
"I've always been a finisher. I remember the guy when I was signed to a publisher in the early nineties, he said that you're a finisher and I finish off track. My problem is not, oh, I've got lots of half finished tracks on my hard drive."
"One thing is important to know is what you're good at, what you're bad at. And I can play chords, but I know I'm not great. You know, I'm not. My taste in chords is better than my ability to play them."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Roger Sanchez
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Steve Bug uncovers the secrets behind his enduring career in this episode of OpenDAW Talks. The German DJ, producer, and tastemaker has been a driving force in the electronic music world since the early '90s, consistently pushed boundaries and set trends. In conversation with Lex Luca, Steve opens up about his musical journey, from production techniques and mixing secrets to the art of DJing and running the wildly successful label Poker Flat Recordings.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Unlock the secrets of Steve's creative workflow and production methods.Discover mixing techniques that elevate your tracks to professional standards.The importance of staying true to your musical visionStrategies for overcoming creative blocksTips for aspiring DJs on reading the crowd and building a setGain insights into building a successful label and cultivating a loyal fanbase.Explore strategies for staying true to your artistic vision while navigating the industry.“To build a long lasting career. It's important to stay true to yourself. If you like trancey commercial music, if you like big festival stuff, and that's what's you, what, what gets you going, go for it. This is, this is your music. Play it out.”
“I think a good DJ is someone who can really start at some point and then build it up, break it down again, build it up again going in this direction. Go that direction. Play some house. Play some melodic house and techno. Play some, maybe rather hard stuff. Play some deep stuff, like, go all the places.”
“In general, that's maybe one of the things I really like about making music is that you never stop learning. It's just great to explore and get better at things, and I just love it with every new track.”
“To really come up with something that is going to break through or has been, like, bigger or seen is like always something that is different and then maybe it's copied afterwards, but you've been the first and it's getting more and more difficult every year.”
“Really stay positive. Don't let others bring you down and believe in yourself. And again, find the right people that support you. And yeah, don't be put off by not getting any feedback from labels, stuff like that, just keep on going.”
“You're not going to be a great dj from day one. No one was. Take your time.”
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Dave Lee
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This is your guide on how to elevate your music. This week we welcome Canadian DJ and producer Sydney Blu
Sydney has forged an impressive career over the last 20 years. She worked herself up from DJ’ing on her local after hours scene to touring around the world.
She taught herself how to make music and has gone on to release her tracks on some of the key labels from Knee Deep In Sound, Elrow, Desert Hearts and Deadmau5’ Mau5trap records.
She has her own label and legendary Party series. She also recently set up the Change The Beat, a platform to increase the number of female, trans and non-binary producers.
There’s a common theme along Sydney’s journey; creativity, passion, drive and a love of making music.
Sydney’s done a lot! And this one is full of wisdom. We get into her creative practices and rituals, her music making process and favourite plug-ins. We how she handles rejection, rebrand yourself when you want to change your sound and loads more.
https://www.23by23.com/
https://www.instagram.com/djsydneyblu
https://soundcloud.com/sydneyblu
https://www.instagram.com/opendawmusic
https://www.instagram.com/lexluca
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week we have the founder of Music Production For Women, Xylo Aria in conversation.
Xylo’s also a talented artist, producer and songwriter and she shares loads of tips and tricks for you guys to incorporate into your own music.
We discuss a whole range of topics from imposter syndrome, and the importance of just showing.
Xylo shares how she pushes out of comfort zone as well as her approach to writing songs and why it’s important to finish them!
This is a super inspiring talk and I hope you get some value from it
https://musicproductionforwomen.com/
https://instagram.com/musicproductionforwomen/
https://instagram.com/xyloaria
https://instagram.com/opendawmusic
https://instagram.com/lexluca
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are you looking to ditch the day job and make money doing what your love; making music? Have you heard of sync licensing but not sure how it works or how to get into it?
You need to check out this week's episode of OpenDAW Talks - we have special guest, sync agent and sync educator, Eric Campbell in conversation.
Eric runs the sync agency Sus3Music and runs an education platform CNTRL Camp.
As music producer and song-writer, Eric’s music has been featured on Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Love & Hip Hop, Real Housewives and more.
He has also been an on-set songwriter for TV shows Greenleaf and Step Up Highwater and scored a commercial for Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s energy drink, Zoa.
All of that and his songs have been recorded by signed recording artists including Musiq Soulchild, Bootsy Collins, Jekalyn Carr and Roshon Fegan.
Eric shares a wealth of knowledge about sync licensing. He talks all about how to get into sync and he breaks down his creative processes. He also delves into his methods for referencing, talks about the challenges of moving to a new city and how he overcame these obstacles. And he provides some insights into networking.
If you’re wondering what Sync Licensing is, how to get into it and how to get paid. This one is most definitely for you.
Enjoy
Lex
Eric Campbell Instagram
Sus3 Music
CNTRL Camp
Lex Luca Instagram
OpenDAW Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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GRAMMY Award winning producer and DJ Mark Knight joins Lex Luca for a conversation full of wisdom and insights and inspiration.
Mark has notched up over 200 million global streams and has been a cornerstone in electronic music for nearly two decades. His chart-topping hits like 'Man With The Red Face' and 'Alright' and his collaborations go beyond house music, having lent his production and songwriting talents to the like Faithless and Florence & The Machine Calvin Harris and David Guetta, Jennifer Lopez, Flo Rider, Black Eyed Peas, the list goes on...
And that’s before we talk about his Toolroom brand, a record label, radio show and now education platform, which literally started out in the shed of his parent’s house.
Mark has combined an innate passion for music, a clear vision, an exceptional entrepreneurial mindset, self awareness & the foresight to build a strong team around him to create his own unique path to success.
Are you struggling to finish music? Download our free guide; 7 Hacks To Finish More Music
Follow OpenDAW Talks on your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review and for more information and resources head to http://opendawtalks.com/
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Legendary Baltimore producer, songwriter, DJ Spen aka Sean Spencer joins Lex Luca for a fascinating conversation covering 4 decades of dance music.
From crafting mix tapes in Baltimore at just 13, forming Numarx & co-writing the iconic "Girl You Know It's True", to honing his production skills with The Basement Boys and producing iconic house music records under Jasper Street Company.
He's worked with the likes of Ultra Nate, Crystal Waters & remixed the likes of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Toni Braxton and many more. He now runs Quantize Recordings & Unquantize, continues to produce brilliant music & DJ around worldwide.
Spen has an exceptional work ethnic that is inspiring and he shares a wealth of knowledge for us all learn from. This episode is full of take-aways; if you're looking to build any kind of longevity with your career in music, this one is for you. Enjoy.
Are you struggling to finish music? Download our free guide; 7 Hacks To Finish More Music
Follow OpenDAW Talks on your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review and for more information and resources head to http://opendawtalks.com/
Follow OpenDAW at https://www.instagram.com/opendawmusic/
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Follow DJ Spen at https://www.instagram.com/dj_spen/
Follow Quantize Recordings https://www.instagram.com/quantizerecordings/
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This week we welcome a brilliant techno artist, DJ, vocalist and producer, Louisahhhh.
Louisahhh made a name for herself in the New York Underground scene as a teenager and has gone on to release with Bromance, He She They and runs her own label RAAR.
We talk about being kicked off the decks for not playing commercially and the importance of finding your why. Her prolific production partnership with Maelstrom, production and collaboration techniques, working with Dave Pensado and why it’s OK to get weird!
Louisahhh shares some really valuable lessons and insights… and we hope you enjoy this one!!
Follow OpenDAW Talks on your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review and for more information and resources head to http://opendawtalks.com/
Follow OpenDAW at https://www.instagram.com/opendawmusic/
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We're joined by a house music legend Roger Sanchez on OpenDAW Talks.
Roger is a Grammy Award winning producer - he’s probably best known for his tracks Another Chance and Luv Dancin and he’s accomplished so much over the last 30 years.
He’s very much a DJ’s DJ, playing on four decks, is one of the busiest DJs on the scene and is very much the King of the Hustle
This podcast we go deep into his earlier years and influences. Roger shares his production techniques, how to deal with self doubt and how we as music makers are vessels.
We all have a lot to learn from Roger and I think you’ll get a lot from this conversation. Enjoy!
Follow OpenDAW Talks on your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review and for more information and resources head to http://opendawtalks.com/
Get in touch with the show [email protected]
Follow OpenDAW at https://www.instagram.com/opendawmusic/
Follow Lex Luca at https://www.instagram.com/lexluca/
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to make it as a DJ & Artist in the music industry? In this episode I sit down with Nigerian powerhouse DJ Cuppy. We explore her journey from passionate music lover to internationally renowned DJ, artist, and entrepreneur.
Cuppy shares her experiences of breaking into the UK music scene, overcoming challenges as a black woman in the industry, and building a successful brand. S
Key Takeaways:Developing an entrepreneurial mindset in the music businessBalancing artistry with DJing and other creative pursuitsNavigating racism and discrimination in the industryBuilding a strong personal brand and connecting with fansThe importance of education and giving back through philanthropyCuppy's story stresses the power of staying true to yourself, hard work, and passion in achieving success. Whether you're an aspiring DJ, producer, or music entrepreneur, this conversation offers practical advice and inspiration to help you move forward in your music career.
BEST MOMENTS
“I got into music because it was a savior for me. It was an escape route. It made me feel closer to my home, it made me deal with emotions, it helped me grow up."
"Music is escapism. It heals, but it's a tough job."
"Your passion will take you where you need to go because it's so much harder to do it the other way around."
"Creativity is a feeling, not a process."
"I want to be the happiest DJ in the world. I want to love what I do. And when you're happy, naturally things work out."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
Find out more on the Cuppy Foundation
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Camden Cox
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Junior Sanchez, a true icon of the New York music scene. In this episode, we explore Junior's remarkable 30-year career as a globally renowned DJ, artist, record producer, and music exec.
From his early days spinning records at exclusive Manhattan fashion parties to collaborating with industry giants like Masters at Work and Harry Romero, Junior's story is nothing short of inspiring. He shares his experiences remixing for legendary acts such as Daft Punk and Gorillaz, and offers a glimpse into his diverse production credits across various genres.
5 TAKEAWAYS
The value of authenticity and developing your unique "soundprint"How to adapt to technological changes while maintaining artistic integrityThe importance of collaboration and learning from industry peersBalancing creativity with business acumen in the music industryNavigating the ups and downs of a long-term career in musicBEST MOMENTS
“I approach a collaboration with no ego, open to any idea. I'm never one to say, if we were working together, like, hey, let's try this. And even if my heart was set on something, I'll say, hey, let's try it. Why not? What's the worst that could come out of trying?”
“I look at DAW’s as canvases. Sometimes you get a canvas with a colour on it and you got to colour on top of it.”
“I would read liner notes of twelve inches in the bathroom while I was doing my personal business and, you know, till, you know, my legs fell asleep.”
“I love to complete. Even though I love sound design. I was never a modular nerd. I was never a knob tweaker.I had a lot of friends that were just super techno heads, super knob tweakers. And I go into a room and they have amazing module synths, great studios, beautiful stuff. And they never finished anything.”
“It's okay to just be you. Be a person that makes music, and it doesn't have to serve a purpose all the time, you know, just enjoy it"
“Be authentic. Don't let it rule you. Don't let it use you. You use them. So if you are growing up in a generation with all these platforms, you're the user. Don't let these platforms use you, because then… it's just, it's a path to destruction.”
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode Roger Sanchez
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Talented star Camden Cox shares her journey navigating the music industry's twists and turns.
From writing toplines for drum & bass tracks, to scoring major label cuts, being signed as a solo artist to RCA and DJ'ing at top festivals, Camden's path highlights the importance of honing your craft and perseverance. Her story offers a wealth of wisdom for independent artists striving to breakthrough.
5 TAKEAWAYS
Discover Camden's unconventional vocal techniques to unlock fresh melodies.Learn strategies for overcoming setbacks and maintaining motivation.Gain insights into finding your unique sound and building a consistent brand. Understand the value of collaborations and writing camps for networking.Receive Camden's top 3 tips for independent musicians looking to make their mark.BEST MOMENTS
“I think it's just important to believe in your own vision, and to lead with that.”
“I got the word patience tattooed on my arm just to remind myself, like, when things aren't going too well or I've had a setback, then it's just about trusting the process and I look down at my wrist and see that patience was tattooed on there for a reason when I was feeling optimistic.”
“It's not going to happen overnight. It takes 10,000 hours to be an overnight success. And you'll come from absolutely nowhere to most people, but little do they know you've been grafting at it for ten years.”
“There are so many setbacks in this industry. It's just. I just don't think it would be this industry without the setbacks and the moments of, what the hell am I doing?”
“I've always been really good at listening to my body. So as tempting as it is, you're out in Ibiza, you've just played a set, you've got friends there, or other dj's turn up....the tequila's out, everyone's just getting on it, and as tempting as it is to, like, stick around, have fun with all these incredible people, if I'm exhausted, I will have to just sacrifice that fun and say, I'm really sorry, guys, but I need to go back to my hotel and sleep.
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Check out our Spotify Playlist
EPISODE TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Louisahhh
ABOUT THE HOST
Lex Luca is a London-based DJ, producer, and tastemaker, known for his infectious energy both behind the decks and in the studio. With releases on Snatch!, Nervous, and his own label In Tune, Lex has garnered support from industry heavyweights like Pete Tong, Annie Mac, and Claude von Stroke. A former BBC Radio 1 producer, he brings a wealth of experience to his craft, delivering a unique blend of house, disco, and techno that has taken him from London to Ibiza and beyond. Lex founded OpenDAW Songwriting camps, bringing together independent musicians to collaborate. And now, as the host of OpenDAW Talks, Lex shares his journey and insights with the next generation of music creators.
CONNECT & CONTACT
OpenDAW
Lex Luca
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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