We were lucky to catch up with Aspen recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi ASPEN, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic is rooted in a combination of passion, discipline, and the environment I grew up in. Being immersed in Miami’s dynamic and competitive music scene from a young age taught me the importance of dedication and resilience. I’ve always believed that success in music, like any other field, requires not just talent but a relentless commitment to honing your craft every day. I draw inspiration from the challenges I’ve faced and the goals I’ve set for myself, constantly pushing to raise the bar. It’s this blend of passion for music, the pursuit of growth, and a drive to innovate that fuels my work ethic.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a DJ and producer based out of Miami, where I’ve had the privilege of being a key part of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. My music blends a variety of electronic genres, with a focus on creating immersive experiences that connect with listeners on an emotional level. What excites me the most about what I do is the ability to evoke powerful emotions and memories through music, whether it’s on the dance floor of a packed club or through a pair of headphones during a late-night drive.
I’m constantly exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in electronic music. Recently, I’ve been diving into progressive house, which has added a fresh dimension to my artistry. I’m also excited about my latest releases, including “Heal Me Now,” which taps into deep, introspective themes, and “Sweetest Mistake,” a collaboration with JWild that brings a different energy altogether.
Beyond just making music, my brand is about creating a connection—a journey that listeners can feel a part of. I’m passionate about not just the sound, but the story behind each track. Whether it’s through my live performances or my studio work, I aim to bring something unique and authentic to the table every time.
Looking ahead, I’m gearing up for more releases and possibly some exciting collaborations. There’s always something new on the horizon, and I’m thrilled to continue evolving as an artist while sharing that journey with my audience.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I’d say the three qualities that had the most impact on my journey are perseverance, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the craft.
Perseverance is crucial because the music industry is full of challenges, and there will be times when things don’t go as planned. Sticking with it, even when the odds seem stacked against you, is what separates those who succeed from those who don’t. My advice here is to stay focused on your goals, keep pushing forward, and don’t let setbacks define your path.
Adaptability has been key in navigating the ever-changing landscape of music. Styles evolve, technology advances, and audience preferences shift, so being able to adapt while staying true to your core sound is essential. For those early in their journey, I recommend staying open to new experiences and learning from them. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sounds or approaches.
Finally, a deep understanding of the craft—whether it’s music production, DJing, or the business side of things—has been incredibly impactful. The more you know, the more you can innovate and refine your work. To develop this, immerse yourself in learning. Study the techniques of those you admire, take courses, practice relentlessly, and never stop exploring new ways to improve your skills.
For anyone just starting out, focus on these areas and continuously work on them. The journey is long, but these qualities will serve as a solid foundation for whatever you aim to achieve.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
The biggest challenge I’m currently facing is balancing the creative side of my work with the demands of the business side of the music industry. As an artist, it’s easy to get lost in the creative process, but there’s also a need to stay on top of marketing, networking, and the strategic aspects of building a brand.
To overcome this, I’m working on streamlining my processes and surrounding myself with a strong team that can help manage the business side, allowing me to focus more on the music. I’m also learning to set clear priorities and allocate my time more effectively, ensuring that both the creative and business aspects of my career get the attention they need. It’s an ongoing process, but I’m committed to finding that balance.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aspen-music.com
- Instagram: aspenofc
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/aspenrg
Image Credits
Sid Israni
Matt Liebman
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