We recently connected with Jimmy Sussman and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jimmy, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
For me, overcoming imposter syndrome has been about focusing on the simple goal of my music: making people dance. I realized early on that the only way to move past doubt is to immerse myself in the art and not worry about external judgments. It’s about finding a flow state, where you’re not second-guessing every step but executing your vision. In a way, it’s like the Nike slogan—just do it.
I remind myself that elitism in music, or any form of art, is ridiculous. Art is subjective, and there’s no universal standard to meet. So, I try to stay forward-looking, proud of the progress I’ve made over the last 10 years since I began my journey, and focused on continuing to produce the best music I can. It’s about celebrating how far I’ve come and recognizing that the only growth path is through constant creation.
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 focused on my career as a DJ and music producer, performing under the name ‘susspect.’ My journey started 10 years ago, and since then, I’ve developed a sound rooted in bass music, house, DnB, and other genres. What excites me most is being able to blend these styles in a way that keeps things fresh. Whether it’s heavy basslines or unexpected genre influences, the goal has always been simple—make people dance.
What sets my work apart is the precision and energy I bring to live sets. I’m always looking for ways to push boundaries, both in terms of sound and the experience I create on the dance floor. It’s not just about playing music, but about crafting something that hits hard and keeps the crowd engaged.
Right now, I’m working on an EP and a couple of songs to be released in October and further shaping my brand of bass music; working closely with local talent, collaborating on new projects, and continuing to build my presence both in Chicago and beyond.
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, three qualities have stood out in my journey. First, the ability to never give up has been crucial. The music industry isn’t easy, and there are plenty of moments where doubt creeps in. But giving yourself time to grow, pushing through those challenges, and staying consistent is what makes the difference.
Second, having a solid understanding of music theory—especially knowing an instrument and harmony—has been a major edge for me. It gives you a deeper toolbox to pull from when producing, and it helps you stand out. My background in other areas of audio engineering, like film, radio, and live sound, has also broadened my approach to production, giving me an extra layer of technical knowledge that’s been invaluable.
Lastly, staying curious has always been key. The learning never stops. Everyone is still figuring things out, even after years in the game. So, my advice is to keep exploring, keep pushing your craft, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Taking time to develop your artistry is just as important as any technical skill.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I try to step back and give myself some space to reset. Taking breaks is important, especially in a field like music where creativity can feel like a constant demand. Whether it’s stepping away for a few hours or even a day, I’ve found that giving my mind some breathing room helps me come back with a fresh perspective.
One thing I’ve learned is that, for me, there are only about three hours in the day when I can hit a flow state and be consistently productive. So, I’ve come to accept that and not push myself beyond what’s realistic. When the big picture feels too heavy, focusing on one thing at a time makes it more manageable. It’s also a good reminder that progress happens step by step. Knowing that helps me focus during those peak hours and not stress too much.
Another key thing is to remind myself that not every day has to be productive in the same way. Some days are meant for creating, others for reflecting, and some just for resting. Knowing when to switch gears is important for avoiding burnout. My advice would be to recognize when you need that break and not feel guilty about taking it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_susspect/
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/officialsusspect
Image Credits
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