Justin Paul has been in the dance music scene for quite some time, with a very eclectic style and diverse sound. With his recent brand Underground Sol making moves and his recent projects in the works, we are bound to see more of Justin in the near future. Don’t forget to check out Justin Paul Presents The Model, “I Won’t Be Hanging Out” (Underground Sol), the 2nd single to be releasing from his new album on July 8th. You can also catch him playing at Silk City Lounge in Philadelphia that same night, with shows in California to follow!
What are you most excited about or grateful for right now?
I’m grateful my life, health, family, friends, and the new music coming out on Underground Sol!
How long have you been making music? Can you tell us about the different alias you’ve produced under and how each sound differs?
I learned how to make dance music in the late 1990s while living with Philly legends King Britt and Dozia Blakey in Philadelphia. They both taught me a lot about producing and recording. We all had amazing project studios, and great record collections to seek inspiration. I watched Britt make music and remixes on an Akai MPC 2000 that went Gold and Platinum. “Red Shift” in 2005 was my first real commercial release. Carl Cox announced and played it on Global Sessions BBC. It was game changer, and huge motivator to grow more as a record producer. I’m working on a few alias projects, but keeping the names secret for now.
You long have been working on Underground Sol. Tell us more about this project and how it came about!
David Franz and I created the Underground Sol brand around 2014. Usol is the combination of his experience as a next level engineer, songwriter, and my background in electronic music and DJ culture. Usol is the electronic imprint and event division of the parent company Underground Sun (artist development and great songs).
What do you think is the most challenging thing about trying to break through as an artist?
It starts with creating an infectious song or album that music fans connect with on an emotional level. Sometimes it just takes one song, but then you have to keep delivering to the hungry music audience. My friend DJ Caparro once described the music business as a bullet train. It moves so fast now, and the amount of great music out there is mind blowing. The most challenging thing for me is wearing so many hats (artist, business person, engineer, marketing, producer and performer). Also having the capital and great team behind the artist is important. It’s always a balance of creating verses focusing on the business side of the industry.
Tell us about one of the highlights in your career so far.
One of my many highlights is collaborating with Mark Richardson on the THE MODEL album project. I love the new wave 1980s electronic sound. He has the perfect voice and songwriting skills for this project.
What has been your greatest personal accomplishment?
My greatest personal accomplishment is looking after my family, loved ones, friends and students. Also creating a great track that makes people dance during my DJ set is an amazing feeling.
Your sound is quite diverse. Is there a certain genre or specific inspirations that you hold close to your heart?
I’m very eclectic. Classic Funk, Soul, Disco, Rock, Metal, 80s New Wave and Oldies all influence me. A lot of my remixes and songs are in the Nudisco and Indie Dance genre. I have a new techno track with The Model, “I Won’t Be Hanging Out” on Underground Sol coming out on July 8th and I’m DJing a big party in my old town of Philly for that. I’m not capable of being a one trick pony! [laughs]
Is there a message that you are trying to convey to your audience through your music? What do you want them to feel?
I just want people to get lost in the music. I’m more about the feeling, sound design and vibe of a song. Sometimes I just like the texture of a vocal but don’t always pay attention the meaning.
Was there ever a time you felt like giving up on your career in music? Why or why not? If so, what brought you back?
There have been a few times in my artist career that I’ve felt overwhelmed. Sometimes it’s good to take a short break and recalibrate. Everyone for me comes through the filter of joy and excitement. I love music so much and will never stop creating and performing.
What do you think is your greatest strength and weakness?
One of my strengths is reading the sonic energy of a crowd and space. Then selecting the right song for that moment in time. I like to connect with the audience on a spiritual level. You can only learn that from the experience of playing live. My weakness is being a better musician, and getting out of my own way.
How do you think that the Internet along with platforms like Soundcloud have shifted how the music industry works?
The Internet has leveled the playing field for artists and content creators. Everyone can have a voice for better or for worse. The market is also very fragmented. I believe in embracing the future and technology. Quality over quantity usually wins.
What would you like to see more or less of in the music industry?
I’d like to see the trend of healthy lifestyle and spiritual dance parties go more mainstream. Let’s get high on the music.
At Neon Owl, we are all about connecting artists, influencers and fans to give back. Is there a special cause you hold dear to your heart or one you would like to see us get involved with?
I want to bring more awareness to animal adoption, healthy living, solar power and artists being compensated properly for performance and streaming services.
Where can you best be reached?
http://www.justinpaul.com
http://www.undergroundsol.com
http://www.facebook.com/djjustinpaul
http://www.facebook.com/justinpaul
http://www.instagram.com/_justinpaul_
http://www.twitter.com/djjustinpaul
How do you want to be remembered as beyond your time?
As a positive and creative force that touched people’s [lives] via the music, entertainment and helped make the world a better place.
Most recent release:
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