Eddy P. shares his journey as an artist in the LA dance music scene, talking about what’s next for him and Soundwav Records.
After the pandemic, the Los Angeles house scene has been through a lot of changes, and one of the artists who constantly stands out now is SoCal DJ and producer Eddy P. Growing up, Eddy was surrounded by music thanks to his father’s extensive collection of records, cassette tapes, and CDs. This led him to discover a lot of the music that would later shape his future.
Today, Eddy’s style is a reflection of this upbringing. Influences from artists like Sean Paul and genres like rap and jazz all factor into his productions, and he often plays shows or late-night afters in SoCal and Denver.
Taking this commitment to the LA scene and beyond, Eddy launched Soundwav Records, a label dedicated to originality in house music. This has given him creative freedom in both his own music and in showcasing artists that inspire him. His recent Bad Boy EP, released on his label, speaks to his versatility as a producer. Its tracks range from gritty vocal cuts to heavier tech house.
As he has upcoming releases on tastemaker labels like Repopulate Mars and Baikonur Records early next year, we caught up with Eddy to discuss his journey, creative process, and vision for the future of dance music in LA. Read on below for the exclusive interview and guest mix!
Stream EDMID Guest Mix 448 || Eddy P. on SoundCloud:
What’s the story behind how you first got into music? Was there something specific that sparked your passion for DJing and producing?
I first got into music going through my father’s study when I was younger. He had so many records, cassette tapes, and CDs; it opened my ears to so many sounds growing up. Hearing that my father was a DJ in his younger years is what really opened that door for me to explore my curiosity in making music and playing it live.
Can you walk us through your creative process when working on new music? How do you stay inspired?
When I work on new projects, I definitely like to go in having the same feeling I get when I am at a club or hearing a song that gave me a certain feeling. I stay inspired by going out and seeing other DJs or artists play.
You grew up in Los Angeles. How has the city’s music scene influenced your style?
I grew up on a lot of Sean Paul, rap, and jazz. I feel like everywhere you go in LA, you can definitely find those sounds. I realized when I started making music and my own edits or remixes that I use a lot of what I grew up on in my music, and it has a lot of that LA attitude in it.
What are your thoughts on the current LA (and/or SoCal) dance music scene?
I know a lot of people will agree and a lot of others will disagree when I say this, but I think it’s a scene that really overlooks true talent that should be recognized.
What’s your favorite venue or event for performing in LA, and what makes it special for you?
There are a handful of places I like to go out to when I go out. I do like Spotlight in Hollywood. The sound system there is impeccable, and the talent they’ve been hosting there is amazing as well. Another one of my favorites is Sound Nightclub, a place that never misses when it comes to the talent they book for the night.
You started your own label, Soundwav Records. What inspired you to take that step, and what goals do you have for it moving forward?
I always wanted to have a platform with a lot of music to collect and play. I also want to leave something behind so people will continue to have a place where original records are appreciated.
How has running a label impacted your perspective on the music industry? Have you learned any lessons so far?
Absolutely. The team and I always look out for new, innovative sounds and artists who keep the roots of house alive. It’s all about originality. One lesson I’ve learned is that there is no bad record; there is always a home for a certain sound.
Are you really looking forward to any upcoming releases in particular from you or your label?
I do have some releases I am excited for. I have one dropping soon on Repopulate Mars and Baikonur Records.
Finally, how do you see the dance music landscape evolving in the next few years, both in the USA and in LA?
I do see it evolving, even now. I just hope, in good time, we get back to a place of where it all started, just the love for the music.