Joeski is On Top of the World

Joeski is On Top of the World: US artist Joeski says that his journey into DJing and producing began when he was just 13 years old.

“My older sister was dating a disco DJ who lived in our neighborhood,” he says. “He was so taken with my sister that he took a liking to me, her little brother. He invited me over to his place to mess around on his turntables and his impressive record collection. Little did he know, that would spark a lifelong passion for me. From that moment, I was captivated by the art of mixing, and I found myself constantly wanting to do it. As time went on, my infatuation with DJing grew stronger. At the age of 17, I decided to turn my passion into a profession. I ventured into the DJ scene in New York City, where I was determined to make a name for myself. It was a bold move at such a young age, but it proved to be a pivotal decision that set the course for my career. As the ’90s unfolded, the landscape of the music industry began to shift. Producers started gaining recognition and receiving  bookings as DJs. In order to keep my DJ career thriving, I realized that I needed to expand my skill set. That’s when I decided to immerse myself in the world of music production. Little did I know, diving into production would open up a whole new world of creative possibilities. I quickly fell in love with the process of creating music from scratch—the ability to shape melodies, layer sounds, and craft unique sonic experiences. It became an indispensable part of my artistic expression. Looking back, I am grateful for the circumstances that led me to this path.”

Today, he says that his sound fuses percussive elements, Latin influences, and tribal Afro sounds.

“This essence has remained a constant throughout my production career,” he says. “However, as technology has advanced, my sonic palette has evolved and expanded. Over the years, I have embraced new tools and techniques that have allowed me to explore different sonic realms. This has enabled me to incorporate a wider range of textures, and production techniques into my music. While staying true to my percussive and rhythm-driven roots, I have been able to experiment with more intricate sound design. As a result, my sound has grown richer and more diverse. Ultimately, my sound today is a reflection of my passion for rhythm, my appreciation for cultural influences, and my desire to push the boundaries of music production.”

Joeski’s latest release is “Top of the World.”

“‘Top Of The World’ was a solo project that I worked on in the studio,” he says. “At the time, I had been actively exploring tribal Afro sounds in my productions, but I felt inspired to deviate from that style and delve into a different direction. I was seeking to create a track with a more tech house main room vibe, incorporating darker elements. To bring this vision to life, I retreated to the studio to begin my process. Working alone in the studio allowed me to have complete creative control over the track. I could experiment with different sounds, textures, and arrangements, shaping the track exactly the way I envisioned it. It was a deeply personal and intimate process, where I could explore my musical ideas and express my artistic vision without any external influences or collaborations.”

“By working solo, I was able to tap into my own musical instincts and push my boundaries as a producer,” he continues. “This allowed me to create a unique sonic experience, incorporating elements of tech house with a darker, main room vibe, while still drawing from my previous experiences and influences. ‘Top Of The World’ represents a moment of artistic exploration and diversity in my catalog. It showcases my versatility as an artist, as well as my ability to adapt and experiment within different genres and styles.”

Joeski feels that the electronic music scene is moving forward right now.

“The advancements in technology have revolutionized music production, making it more accessible and efficient,” he says. “Tasks that used to take hours can now be accomplished in a fraction of the time, especially when it comes to editing and refining my work. Throughout various trends that have emerged in electronic music, I have remained dedicated to my unique sound. Staying true to my artistic vision has allowed me to carve out my own identity amidst a constantly evolving industry. I believe that embracing the future is essential, as technology continues to evolve and present new creative possibilities.”

“The inclusivity and diversity within the electronic music scene are also worth celebrating,” he continues. “Artists from various backgrounds and perspectives are contributing to a broader range of styles and sounds, enriching the overall landscape. I am particularly excited about the fusion of electronic elements with other genres, as it expands the boundaries of what electronic music can be. This cross-pollination has resulted in captivating and innovative sounds that resonate with a wide audience. Looking ahead, I am eager to explore the emerging technologies and trends that will shape the future of electronic music. By embracing new tools and techniques, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries of my own sound and contributing to the ever-evolving electronic music community. Overall, I am incredibly optimistic about the current state of electronic music and the opportunities it presents for creativity, collaboration, and personal expression.”

Looking ahead, Joeski has plenty planned for 2024.

“In 2024, I have an array of exciting plans and projects in store, all aimed at taking my musical journey to new heights,” he says. “First and foremost, I am thrilled to announce that I will be releasing a solo album for Crosstown Rebels label, curated by the renowned Damian Lazarus. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in my career, as it allows me to explore fresh musical territories and present my artistic vision. In addition to the album, I am truly excited about the forthcoming releases on my own Maya Records imprint. These releases include some highly-anticipated tracks that embody my passion for diverse and innovative sounds. Notable among them are ‘Joeski & Aakan feat Idd Aziz – Mwambi,’ a captivating fusion of unique rhythms and mesmerizing vocals, and ‘Joeski feat Katiie – Mosaic,’ a track that exemplifies my dedication to pushing sonic boundaries and delivering high-quality production.”

“On top of these studio endeavors, I am thrilled to embark on a full European tour during the upcoming summer season,” he adds in conclusion. “This tour will allow me to connect with my fans across various European cities, sharing my latest music, and creating unforgettable experiences through energetic live performances. I am genuinely looking forward to the electric atmosphere and the opportunity to showcase my creativity and passion for music to a diverse and enthusiastic audience. As I continue to carve my path in the electronic music industry, my focus for 2024 is to stay true to my artistic evolution, always seeking new sounds and fresh directions. I am committed to pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and leaving an indelible mark in the electronic music scene. In summary, 2024 holds immense promise with an exciting solo album release, highly-anticipated tracks on Maya Records, and a thrilling European tour. I am grateful for the opportunities that lie ahead and can’t wait to share my music, energy, and creativity with a diverse global audience.”

Joeski is On Top of the World: Joeski’s “Top of the World” is out now.

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