INTERVIEW: byDJBLVD’s highlights of 2023

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with byDJBLVD to delve into his favourites and highlights from the music scene in 2023. As an accomplished music producer with a distinct style, byDJBLVD shares his thoughts on tracks, emerging artists, and memorable moments that have left an impact on him this year; get ready to discover the tracks, books, movies and trends that have influenced his creative journey, as we get new insights into the world of this dedicated DJ and music Producer.

What is your all-time favourite track that was released this year, and what about it makes it so special for you as a music producer?

My favourite release of 2023 by far was “The Genius is Me,” released under the London-based label Pogo House Records for many reasons. Producing the track was my favourite part – I cried when I finished the song because I loved it that much. On top of that, it was my most successful release of the year, with immense support from so many DJs, radio stations and Traxsource itself. It was the first time in a while where I felt 100% proud of something I produced and the outcome.

Were there any emerging artists or newcomers in the music scene this year who particularly impressed you with their talent or innovation?

Yes! Two artists I’ve been incredibly proud of and following heavily this year are JeSse (formerly known as 67th & Bird) and KA.2.ZU. Both artists are popping heavy on the Garage charts on Traxsource, and their music has inspired me regarding how I produce my tracks, different elements to include and the genre as a whole, in my opinion.

Can you share a favourite musical moment or memory from this year, either in your own career or from the music industry as a whole?

A favourite moment related to music from my 2023 would have to be getting reached out to by Sebb Junior, receiving a follow on Instagram, and showing love to one of my tracks. Sebb is one of my all-time favourite artists, and he actually got me interested in the world of Jackin, Deep and Garage House. Having one of my idols recognise my work and support me really keeps me going and brings everything I’m doing full circle.

Beyond music, what book or piece of literature did you enjoy the most in the past year, and did it have any influence on your creative process?

While in London, I picked up a book called Wabi Sabi by Beth Kempton, and it changed my outlook on life. The book focuses on an ancient philosophy closely tied to Japanese culture, which focuses on the beauty in imperfection, appreciates simplicity, and accepts that change is inevitable. It taught me to slow down, and in terms of my creative process, it helped me to embody that less is more. Many producers will tell you this – the more you try to complicate your music with sounds, the more flawed it gets. Keep it simple and enjoyable, and understand that it’s not meant to be a perfect production. Your music is intended to reflect you and something you’re proud of.

When it comes to films or movies, which one stood out as your favourite from the past year, and did it inspire any of your music or artistic decisions?

I’m a horror movie guy, so I can’t say that any of those definitively influenced my music this year. However, I have to say, some of my favourite movies that have come out this year are Talk to Me, Evil Dead Rise and The Nun II.

Were there any unexpected trends or developments in the music industry that caught your attention and shaped your perspective on the direction of music?

I don’t know if it’s unexpected, but, at least in the U.S., the general media consumption population is becoming more aware of and tuning into subgenres of Electronic music like Deep House, Garage House and more. Many mainstream artists are exploring songs utilising R&B, Hip-hop and other genres on Electronic, 4-on-the-floor, or UKG beats, and they’re very well received here. A recent example of this could be Ice Spice’s collaboration with Pink Panthress on the UKG beat for “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2.” As for the trend shaping my direction on music, if anything, it’s made me want to dive deeper into combining elements of different genres with UKG to appeal to wider audiences. I feel like many genres are in a mid-life crisis right now, where the level of experimentation is so high that it blurs the lines on the genre and creates something new.

Did you experiment with new production techniques or equipment this year, and if so, which ones became your favourites and why?

In terms of experimentation within my music in 2023, I became much more familiar with my MIDI keyboard and several plugins. I feared my MIDI keyboard for the longest just because getting back into instruments and learning can be daunting. I promised myself that this year, I’d stop saying, “I’ll learn later.” Additionally, I dove in further with plugins for mixing and sample creation to improve the sounds and authenticity of my music. iZotope suite has become my favourite plugin set for mixing, just because I’m able to manipulate so many sounds, bring out new ones and give my music an entirely new feel. In 2024, I plan to dive deeper into different ways to set myself apart – that’s the fun part!

Can you name a track from your own discography that holds a special place in your heart from this year, and what was the inspiration behind it?

A track from my 2023 that holds a special place in my heart is “Trials of Love,” which I released at the top of the year under my label, Las Olas Records. I was going through a rough breakup at the time, that had me all over the place. When you listen to the song, it sounds very sad. Even the lyrics reflect its somber feeling. Of course, the inspiration came from all of the emotions I was feeling, and I felt the best way to let it out was through a UKG track. When I relisten to it now, I think back to how bad I was feeling then, and fast forward to now, where I’m finishing the year solid, happy and in a much better place, with better people in my life.

In terms of personal growth and development, what was the most significant lesson or realisation you had as a music producer this year?

One of the most significant realisations I’ve learned this year as a music producer is that people are always watching. When I say that, I’m speaking specifically to the feeling all musicians get when they feel the right folks aren’t hearing their music, or no one is listening. People are listening, and those “right folks” are following and listening silently. When the time is right, they will make themselves known. Keep doing what you’re doing and producing music you’re proud of; the blocks will fall in line accordingly.

As you reflect on the past year, what message or advice would you like to share with emerging producers who look up to you for guidance and inspiration?

It’s always an honour to pass down any advice I wish someone would’ve told me early on — two things for those producers coming up in their careers. One, lean into your creative roadblocks and don’t try to power through them. If you’re having a dry spell and not feeling it, don’t force it. Allow yourself to take breaks. Creativity and inspiration will come to you at the most unconventional moments, and you won’t be able to stop when it hits you. Second, study the music you want to make. Study the culture, the mechanics of the piece, how famed artists in the genre create their tracks and what elements they use. Think of producing like a test. The more you study, the more well-prepared you are for success. Everything I’ve achieved was possible through curiosity and constant studying. Keep on grooving, y’all!

As the year comes to an end and we wrap up this insightful interview with byDJBLVD, we’ve learned more of his musical journey, influences, and reflections on 2023. His passion for music and dedication to his craft shine through, offering valuable advice and inspiration to emerging Producers and music enthusiasts alike. With a promising future ahead and a commitment to continuous growth, byDJBLVD leaves us with a resonating message: Stay true to your creative process, keep studying, and allow inspiration to flow organically; as we eagerly await his upcoming releases and creative endeavours, we wish him the best in the new year. Make sure to follow him across social media to learn more about his releases and new projects.

Listen to his latest release Life Without You below