Following the release of a brand new album, Las Vegas artist, producer and all-round arts entrepreneur Rawkcztar stopped by an in-depth chat about all things creativity and music. Here’s the conversation in full.
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Hey – great to chat with you, how are things where you are right now?
Hi, things are going well. Staying safe & healthy.
For those who don’t know, how long have you been producing music, and how would you define your style?
I have been producing music now for 10 years. Started in high school after spending some time on drums & wanting to be a “one-man-band” type of producer, but found myself doing electronic music more.
My style is what I am feeling at the time, but I believe my style continues to change as I think about it more. Think like an artist you have these phases of emotions & creativity. That I would take producing too seriously as appose to have fun with it.
What can you tell us about the project Invasion Of Isolation?
I can tell you that the album title came before the virus isolation, haha. But it was an album that was able to help express more creativity than other albums I have made.
You have a fairly unique manner of sound design, a crisp finish but a few retro layers and an overall energizing dance vibe. Who or what would you say has been your greatest inspiration in crafting your sound?
The greatest inspiration for me will always be Joel Zimmerman (AKA Deadmau5) – just the mindset & creative side that he is able to create in his tracks is an inspiration for me. How he approaches producing is something I’ve tried to mirror as much as I can.
What’s your go-to DAW, and do you have a favorite plugin right now?
My go-to DAW is Ableton Live. Has been since I started. Also been wanting to try others as well, just have not made that jump yet. I honestly do not have a favorite plug-in yet.
Is DJing also part of your plans, or live performance?
I’ve dabbled in DJing before with other people’s music, but a live show has been in the works for a LONG time now. Since the quarantine started I’ve been able to start re-creating a live show. Least one that I am happy with.
You’ve recently worked as a producer for some metal projects – how does this experience differ for you when compared to working on various EDM compositions?
Yes, seems like a long time ago at this point. Haha. Would honestly like to do more. The experience is different for sure, it’s not just one cook in the kitchen producing or creating. But I usually let them do what they do best & I’ll do what I do.
Do you prefer collaboration or working alone?
I don’t mind collaborating, but I do prefer to work alone. haha.
Given your strong work ethic and the clear professionalism in your sound, what’s your greatest ambition right now, and where do you hope to take things in 2021?
Honestly, it’s to create that live show & get that rolling. Of course, then release another album in-between now & 2021 since we kinda have so much time on our hands now.
If you could work with any artist, band or producer in the world, who would you choose, and why?
Of course Joel (Zimmerman) or Bob Rock. Just feel like they are the best in the areas they work in. Joel with the dance productions & Bob working with some of the best rock bands on producing albums.
What would you like to see change within the music industry over the coming years?
Would like to see the fans have more say in what is top 40. Feels like so much is controlled by the big dogs in the music industry.
What’s your best piece of advice for up and coming producers who are yet to work out their sound or master their software?
“Fear kills more dreams than failure ever will”.
Even if it doesn’t sound right or feels like it is not a top 40 hit. Just release it, because you never know what might catch next. That & keep practicing. You get better at each practice. Just don’t give up, took me 10 years to get to this point & I still feel like I got room to grow.
What’s something about you that most people don’t know?
That I am a plant guy. haha. I have a green thumb, surprisingly.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
This was fun! I enjoyed the questions.
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A big thank you to Rawkcztar for the time & insight. Find & follow him on Twitter & Instagram or visit his Website.
