From empty venues to vibrant festival scenes, BARKER has adeptly navigated the highs and lows of the Electronic Music industry, showcasing an unwavering passion for his craft. His unique blend of Tech House energy, Classical training, and Hip Hop influences has birthed a sound that is both dynamic and authentically personal. As he continues to carve out his niche, BARKER remains a standout artist to watch within the realm of Electronic Music, consistently presenting a distinctive approach that mirrors his artistic background and creative vision.
Today, we sit down with him for an exclusive interview, exploring his musical journey, creative process, and what lies ahead in his career.
Hi BARKER, how are you?
Hey, thanks for having me! I’m doing well, finally emerging from the frigid temperatures in Chicago and looking forward to the warmer days ahead.
Reflecting on your journey thus far, what would you say have been the most significant turning points for you?
There have been several moments that have provided me with clarity and direction over the past few years. Recently, it’s been the small decisions, like declining a show or trusting my instincts in the DAW instead of worrying about what others might prefer. These choices, where I’ve committed to my vision, have felt particularly impactful.
Playing to an empty room for the first time, despite extensive promotion, humbled me and helped me realize what music truly resonates with me, allowing me to take myself less seriously. Hearing my song played unexpectedly for the first time grounded me and validated my efforts in ways I can hardly articulate. Playing for a huge audience was surreal; it’s mind-bending to know people came specifically to hear what you create. When industry legends compliment my work, it leaves me pondering why certain tracks resonate.
This career isn’t for the faint-hearted—turning points arise frequently, and they should. I can’t pinpoint the biggest ones, but every interaction I have with my music and this scene shapes my approach and future.
As a DJ and producer, how do you maintain your signature sound while continuing to evolve creatively?
The beauty of music lies in its constant evolution. Staying true to your sound involves discovering what you genuinely enjoy in each creative cycle and incorporating that into your work. There aren’t strict rules or playbooks for a signature sound; it’s entirely what I choose it to be. I often encounter young producers crafting groundbreaking sounds, and like any creative, I’m eager to learn from them. Staying authentic while evolving isn’t merely about technique; it’s about taking inspiration from what excites you and molding it to fit your artistic expression. I fully embrace this process.
How has your Classical training influenced your music production and sound design?
Classical training teaches that sometimes, less is more. Allowing space for sounds to breathe is often underrated. While music theory can be complex, it fundamentally rests on simple pillars: melody, harmony, and rhythm. These elements profoundly affect listeners. Technical proficiency in a DAW or plugins is valuable, but nothing compares to mastering melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. I strive to keep my writing simple, focusing on those three elements. As House producers, we create party music—taking it too seriously and obsessing over minute details that only a fraction of the audience will notice detracts from the fun.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about the music industry since you started?
This industry offers lessons daily. Navigating the electronic scene is challenging, but the key takeaway is to stay focused on your goals and be your biggest advocate. Comparing yourself to others or waiting for someone to offer you a break is a recipe for stagnation. Trust yourself, and everything else will follow.
The Electronic Music landscape is always changing. What trends do you believe will shape the coming years, and how do you see yourself fitting into that evolution?
Predicting what will drive change in the electronic landscape is challenging, as new motifs constantly emerge. The resurgence of Afro House and the ‘big room’-ification of Melodic Techno have been notable trends lately. I’ve observed that powerful, emotion-driven melodies are making a comeback, reminiscent of the golden era of Progressive House. I love integrating these sounds and motifs into my work, as they set my style apart from more commercial Tech House. I feel optimistic about where I fit into the larger picture right now.
You draw influence from various genres, including 2000s Hip Hop. Are there any unexpected styles or artists that have influenced your sound?
If only I could name all the 2000s Hip Hop artists who have inspired me! Hip Hop producers were pioneers of electronic sounds back then. Timbaland stands out as one of my biggest melodic influences—perhaps a surprise to some. I also appreciate the arrangement style of Indie Alt-Rock and have incorporated elements from that genre into my tracks, creating something truly unique within the House genre.
If you could collaborate with any artist, from any genre, who would it be and why?
This is a tough choice. Miley Cyrus is at the top of my list. Miley—if you’re interested in laying down some vocals for a Tech House track, drop me a DM!
What’s a piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
You won’t attract collaborators unless you genuinely believe in your work.
Finally, what’s next for you? Any exciting projects, collaborations, or personal goals you’re pursuing?
Summer is the prime season for musicians, with numerous festivals and club sets lined up across the states and beyond that I can’t disclose just yet. I also have three records set to release over the next six weeks, which I’m incredibly excited about. My goal is to release 18 original tracks this year, averaging one every three weeks. It’s ambitious, but I thrive on challenging myself. As a musician, I’m accustomed to navigating obstacles.
As BARKER continues to forge his path in the dynamic Electronic Music scene, his commitment to growth, experimentation, and authenticity remains central to his creative endeavors. With an exciting release schedule and live performances on the horizon, his momentum is unwavering. We appreciate him taking the time to share his insights and encourage you to follow this rising talent across social media.
