Welcome to an insightful interview with the emerging force in Electronic Dance music, Drunk & Play. In this conversation, we’ll dive into the artist’s journey, creative and production process, and musical influences, offering a glimpse into the mind behind the beats. The DJ/Producer also shares some insigths and advice for up-and-coming producers starting their journey, and talks about inspiration, overcoming writer’s block, collaboration and more. Without further ado, here’s our exclusive interview with Drunk & Play.
Hi Drunk & Play! How are you?
Hey guys!! I’m good, thanks for asking!
Can you share your journey into Electronic Dance music production, and what inspired you to start the Drunk & Play project?
Of course! What actually inspired me was Amine Edge & Dance tracks, the way they did the famous G-House.
What are some essential pieces of equipment or software that every aspiring music producer should have in their arsenal?
For me is a DAW that you find yourself comfortable in, and a good pair of headphones, that’s the most important. After that, you should look for plugins that you like, learn everything about them and stay working with those. You don’t really need a lot of plugins.
How do you approach the creative process when starting a new track? Are there any specific techniques or rituals you follow?
I always look for some sound that catches my ears, it could be a vocal, an instrument, a melody or a clap.
If I’m inspired I take that catchy sound and do a very big song, when I say ‘big’ I mean something that is full of stuff. Synths, percs, shouts and etc. After that, I start cleaning it up to have a more pleasant track.
In tracks such as ‘101 error’, how do you go about creating that tough but still vibey drum groove?
‘101’ is one of my favorite songs, I love those kinds of vocals. After I found them I tried to craft drums that would dance with the vocal. So, is like a dance with simple drums and a very rich melody vocals.
For many producers, vocals are a huge issue when coming to sourcing high quality samples. What is your method and do you have any recommendations?
I actually have a course where I teach that. But basically, I have a day in the week only for searching vocal samples, and processing and changing the vocal samples are very important steps to have a very good quality material.
How do you come up with bassline patterns and what is your method? are you a fan of sampling or sequencing?
Basslines are my favorite part to do in a song. I do mines on the keyboard, I like to write them myself, and I always check if it can be improved and the DAW after.
Could you explain the importance of sound design in Electronic music production and how it contributes to your unique sonic identity?
Design is everything, not only in music. For me, from my tracks, to my clothes it’s whats defines anyone as an artist. But talking about Eletronic Music, sound design is what usually differences professional music from amateur music. Even in your samples choice.
In House/Tech House production, what do you think are the key elements needed to stand out in today’s highly-competitive market?
Kick, clap and hat. The 3 pillars of the song. Make them sound good together before you start your track. Then, keep your track clean and do a good MIX!! So, drums, mixing and trying to put your energy in the track are the key elements!
What advice would you give to someone looking to develop their skills in mixing and mastering their tracks effectively?
There are many guys that live for this, mixing and mastering is an art in itself. If you don’t like yours, reach out for someone who is very good doing it. That’s what I usually do. But, if you want to develop your mixing and mastering skills, study a lot about it and never stop training your ears.
Many producers struggle with writer’s block, how do you overcome creative blocks when working on music?
Read books, see movies and do workouts! The best way to overcome such thing is working on your own body. But I open my DAW and do a bunch of shit music as well. Because even if you don’t like what you’re doing, you are practicing and developing your production skills.
Collaboration is a significant aspect of the Electronic music industry, can you share your insights on successful collaborations and working with other artists?
I fully agree! Not everyone likes the same procees, for me I just like to collaborate with other artists. Weather in person or sending over the project, is all good to me. But I prefer doing it side by side, it’s just different and I like it more.
What are some common mistakes you’ve seen beginner producers make, and how can they avoid them?
The biggest mistake is copying another artist! Listen to artist that you like and do your own music using parts of what they do. Put your own experience on your tracks, this way, I’m sure you’ll have great tracks.
Technology in music production is constantly evolving, how do you stay updated with the latest trends and tools in the industry?
I keep my DAW updated, but my tools, I don’t change them a lot, I prefer to be really good at some tool and do, sometimes, more work to get a good result.
Can you offer some guidance on how aspiring producers can build their brand and establish a presence in the Electronic music scene?
To start, be yourself, seek what you believe/like on the scene, look up for bigger artists, create goals and stay hungry for knowledge!
Thanks for this interview! Wish all the best to you!!
As we wrap up this interview, we’d like to thank Drunk & Play for sharing his musical journey and insights with us. His drive and dedication to his craft and signature sound act as an inspiration to aspiring artists and music enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned for more from this rising star, as this is only the beginning of his journey.
Drunk & Play Online
Soundcloud | Instagram | Spotify
