Performing today at LOVE FROM HOME FEST, music artist ESDOTP, is set to make their debut on NAKID but first we wanted to sit down with them for a short interview and feature a new track ‘The Internet – Hold On (BB SP Edit)’! Check him out LIVE! today playing 6:00 – 6:30 PM EST / 3:00 – 3:30 PM PST!
STREAM DAY 2 – LOVE FROM HOME FEST – CLICK HERE!
INTERVIEW:
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. How did your background and culture shape you and what creative expression means to you and why?
I’ve been DJing over 15 years now, with my focus turning to music production and songwriting in the last five years. I come from a mixed background— half Venezuelan and half Jewish-American, which was an interesting experience balancing the two vastly different cultures. Growing up in Miami, the eclectic culture exposed me to a wide variety of musical genres. From reggaeton, dancehall, and disco to an array of electronic music and hip hop.
Artistic expression is beauty in humanity, a way of releasing one’s self from within – was music something that called to you over time more than other artistic avenues or did you just know at some point?
I’ve been DJing over 15 years now, with my focus turning to music production and songwriting in the last five years. I come from a mixed background— half Venezuelan and half Jewish-American, which was an interesting experience balancing the two vastly different cultures. Growing up in Miami, the eclectic culture exposed me to a wide variety of musical genres. From reggaeton, dancehall, and disco to an array of electronic music and hip hop.
What was it like growing up in and around Miami for you? How has that shaped your found talent musically?
Growing up in Miami was a hustle! Always had to be on your toes and ready for action. I loved going to house parties and all-ages club parties in high school, always excited to check the DJs playing at places like Madhouse, 609, and Space 34 (the old club Space). Hearing all the music that was played at those parties in that time definitely shaped my outlook. Stuff like early Sean Paul, Lumidee, Nina Sky, Ivy Queen, and even early Pitbull was huge for me. Surroundings can definitely influence your styles although more often today its a virtual setting on the internet that we surround ourselves with. I’m a bit oldschool and still a big believer in local music scenes and doing what I can to make that pop off.
What are some of your heaviest influences in art, music, just creatively in general, your top three favorites?
Heaviest influences in art/music/creativity— David Bowie, James Brown, Coen Brothers
How has your music process and writing changed from when you started, and what things do you focus on most with respect to your brand or image and music that make up you as a music artist?
My process has changed mainly in that I do things with more intention and tact these days, opposed to doing things impulsively and too randomly, as I did in my younger years. It’s like sailing a ship with no rudder— eventually you’re gonna get stuck in the rocks.
How has COVID-19 affected you & your family personally and your community during this period of lockdown?
My dad and brother actually had the Corona virus and have since recovered with minimal issues. I’m very grateful they’re ok now. It was a bit nerve racking at first but its all good. Other than that, I just have a lot of free time and no work. So it’s equal parts fun and awful. And I’m getting a bit bored.
What have you been doing during the lockdown to stay sane?
I’ve been trying to maintain a somewhat consistent routine and good habits to stay sane and motivated. Breathe work, meditation, yoga, exercise and heathy eating. And lots of coffee.
If you had to take one person alive or dead into quarantine lockdown with you for 30 days and you only got one object to take with you, what would it be and who would you pick?
On a 30 day quarantine I would I would take Bob Marley and a ukulele.
What’s the first thing you wanna do or go to when the lockdown ends, what do you miss most?
First thing Im doing after quarantine is a full workout and sauna at my gym, beach and then hitting Sunday brunch with friends.
What new music do you have on the horizon?
I’m currently working on my new artist project– an experimental fusion of synth-pop, electro, boogie-funk, and future beats with a modern production touch. It’ll be my first musical endeavor that I’m singing on and truly presenting myself as an artist, rather than a DJ. Im super excited, stay tuned for more on that.
What’s your spirit animal?
My spirit animal is Daniel Tosh
What’s your favorite thing about making music and playing music live?
My favorite thing about making music is the endless possibilities and the ability to create something thats never been made before. I love performing live because it puts you in an indescribable flow state.
What’s one thing that was a challenge you had to overcome choosing this music path and how did it affect you and your writing?
A challenge I sometimes face on the musician’s path is from time to time doubting myself, and doubting the path I’ve chosen.
What’s the hardest thing about being a musician?
Hardest thing about being a musician is adapting and learning the music industry.
How do you think the DYI movement through social media and internet in general has changed the industry and changed the way musical artists like yourself get discovered and reach new fans? What’s that kind of personal ability to directly connect to your fans meant to you as an artist and during this time? How do you think this event in history will change the internet and how we interact socially whether it be music or art or just in general?
DIY culture through the internet and social media has definitely opened the doors wider for budding musicians and artists, although it’s also created a lot of noise (and shitty music). Im honestly still working on figuring out my online brand and presence and I’m hoping it’s something I can really hone in on with my new music project.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists and those out there having a hard time during this time?
My advice to aspiring artists is: constantly be taking thoughtful action. Always continue learning and keep an open mind. Be weary of who you teach, work with, and who you put on. Build a mastermind group, take any mentorship opportunities. Don’t give up. That’s it.
Thank you to ESDOTP for sitting down with us and performing at DAY 2 of LOVE FROM HOME FEST – Check him out LIVE! today playing 6:00 – 6:30 PM EST / 3:00 – 3:30 PM PST!
DAY 2 – LOVE FROM HOME FEST // APRIL 11TH, 2020 – STREAM HERE!!
