Growing up with music was a natual part of my childhood. I don't come from a famous father or mother, but they always got us exited about being creative. I have always loved listening to other's creative genuis, from the guy next door to Jimi Hendrix.
I was a military brat, so we moved around a bit, but music had always been my niche. It has gotten me through hard times and because of music I have had a common bond with others and have created lifelong friendships. When I was a teenager I picked up the guitar and a microphone. And, although I have never had a formal lesson, nor can I read a note of music, I can hear what I want to play, what sounds I should create, and my brain tells my fingers what to do on the strings, and now on keyboard.
As a teenager I was influenced by some of the greatest in rock and grunge. At this time bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Piolets, amoung others, had what we were all searching for: something in our music that was violent and confused, painful and heartfelt, and somehow described how we all have felt at one time or another in our lives. Something that related to us, would inspire us, take us to another level of heart, soul, mind and music. Something that was NEW.
And, now cut to 10 years later. I am not the same person I was back then. Time has given me maturity and responsiblity. Although I love to listen to the rock'n'roll and punk I used to scream about, I create differently now. I am a DJ, producer, and a member of the electronic music revolution. My music contains my dreams, hopes, and fears. It sings of soul lifting inspiration without speaking a lyric. Not to mention, the beats will get you up off your ass. I am so proud of what I am doing, the best part is that no matter now much electronic music evolves I can still see it in not only my near future but the distant one as well. It will always be NEW.
I have yet to make a dollar off what I do, but trust me, I have been compensated for my efforts. That, I think is the biggest lesson I have learned: success doesn't equal money. In that case, then I must be the most successful SOB out there.