Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith – Details, episodes & analysis

In the latest episode of the Electronic Music Life podcast, host James Locksmith sits down with the legendary DJ and producer Osunlade. Renowned for his deep, soulful house music and spiritual approach to his craft, Osunlade shares insights into his musical journey, from his early beginnings to establishing the influential Yoruba Records.

Listeners will discover how his unique blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz, and soulful melodies has carved out a distinctive niche in the electronic music scene. Osunlade delves into his creative process, the importance of authenticity in music, and the spiritual philosophies that guide his work.This episode also explores Osunlade's perspective on the current state of the electronic music industry, his thoughts on cultural influences in music, and his experiences as an artist navigating a global landscape. With his rich storytelling and profound insights, Osunlade offers a captivating and enlightening conversation that not only highlights his illustrious career but also provides inspiration for aspiring artists and fans alike. Whether you're a long-time follower of Osunlade or new to his music, this episode promises a deep and soulful exploration of one of the most influential figures in house music.

FOLLOW OSUNLADE: https://www.instagram.com/the_real_osunlade

In the latest episode of The Electronic Music Life podcast, hosted by DJ and producer James Locksmith, listeners are treated to an in-depth and inspiring conversation with the esteemed UK artist, musician, DJ, and radio broadcaster, Nabihah Iqbal. Delving deep into some of the intricacies of her creative process and professional discipline, the conversation serves as a little masterclass in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of electronic and live music. Nabihah's insights, gleaned from years of immersion in both electronic and live music scenes, transitioning from a radio broadcaster persona to being recognised as an artist, offer a compelling narrative on the challenges and triumphs inherent in the pursuit of sonic innovation.

However, the episode takes on a poignant tone as Nabihah and Locksmith pay homage to the late Scottish luminary, Sophie. Reflecting on Sophie's indelible impact on electronic music and modern art and her untimely departure, Nabihah and James engage in a heartfelt exploration of her groundbreaking contributions and the impact on Nabihah’s life. Amidst the introspection, Nabihah offers a glimpse into her 2023 opus, "Dreamer," illuminating its thematic underpinnings and the creative journey that birthed it. From the intricacies of band leadership, her grandfather’s unconditional love and inspiration, to the adrenaline rush of touring the album for a year, Nabihah's narrative resonates as a testament to the enduring allure of live and electronic music and its capacity to transcend boundaries.

FOLLOW NABIHAH IQBAL:

https://www.instagram.com/nabihahiqbal

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with Astronafrica aka Raphael Ramires, a Sydney based Brazilian born, DJ, producer, radio host, cultural agitator, founder, producer and curator of Mixagi Collective, New Beginnings Festival and Settlement Services International. Raphael and James discuss the cultural boundaries and political challenges with developing diverse music platforms in Sydney Australia during lockout laws and COVID, that existed prior and still exist post the pandemic and the lockout laws. Raphael shares his insight and personal first hand experiences through his music projects working with First Nation and Refugee artists.

FOLLOW ASTRONAFRICA::

https://www.instagram.com/astronafrica/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is Egyptian, Amsterdam based Moataz Rageb aka Disco Arabesquo, who for the last few years, grabbed the attention of music lovers, electronic music, vinyl enthusiasts and the dance music industry.  A sociologist, DJ, researcher and avid collector of Arabic cassettes and vinyl, his DJ sets and mixes have been blowing up dance floors and spreading like wildfire online.  With a rich and deep understanding of sounds from the 70's, 80’s & 90’s of the Middle East, SWANA regions and its diaspora, he’s recognised as a music historian. He’s collaborated with labels such as WeWantsSounds, Habibi Funk Records and has a vinyl release forthcoming featuring edits with Saudi-Irish DJ producer Moving Still. Moataz and James discuss his recent international appeal, 80’s Egyptian love letters on cassettes, ethical licensing and artist acknowledgment.

FOLLOW DISCO ARABESQUO:

https://www.instagram.com/discoarab/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with Martha van Straaten, real name Hannah, recognised internationally for blending her fond love of folkloric, global electronic music. Truly a bright star in her genre, who now continuously travels the world sharing joy through multicultural sounds in clubs and on festival stages, after years of yearning cultural connection. Martha and James discuss how a lack of cultural exposure created a hunger for connection, expression and the reverse positive effects with art and music.

FOLLOW MARTHA VAN STRAATEN:

https://www.instagram.com/marthavanstraaten/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with co-founder and label head of one of the most internationally respected house and electronic record labels over the last decade, Tooli of Local Talk Records, out of Stockholm, Sweden. Tooli is often referred to as “the other guy” of Local Talk, alongside his partner Mad Mats, both of them also co-run Omena Records, a few other labels individually, and Tooli also runs 18437 Records, one of his latest projects since 2020. Tooli and James discuss multiple label management, distribution, A&R, label cycles, keeping focussed, structure and tenacity.

FOLLOW TOOLI (LOCAL TALK):

https://www.instagram.com/__tooli__omena.local.talk/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with Phillip Lembke aka Sticky Dojah, a German DJ and music consultant based in New York.  Phillipp moved to New York over a decade ago, continuing his hip hop dream, after several years, DJing, producing events and booking American artists to perform in Germany and Europe. Today he’s the main force behind the “Touch Of Classics” event, resident DJ for Disco Tehran, a radio presenter on The Lot Radio with his “Records Before Rent” show and more widely recognised internationally for his Instagram ‘7 inch mashup videos that have gone viral in all corners of the world. Sticky Dojah has shared the stage with some of the greatest artists of both yesteryear and today. Phillipp and James talk about finding your way in New York, taking risks and bringing skills forward and social media DJ content advantages.

FOLLOW STICKY DOJAH:

https://www.instagram.com/stickydojah/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with Rob Garza, one half of trailblazing electronic music duo, Thievery Corporation, also known for his standalone project GARZA. Rob discusses his latest project, capturing Yemeni culture, history and displacement through music in an unprecedented expedition organised by the UN’s World Food Program. An Ambassador for the World Food Program, this is the first time Rob Garza, collaborating with musicians on a WFP mission. Rob also share’s insight to Thievery Corporation’s almost 30 years, enduring appeal of sharing music and experiences worldwide, and discusses his solo project GARZA, his label Magnetic Moon and Amplified Yoga.

FOLLOW ROB GARZA:

https://www.instagram.com/robgarzamusic/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith is with Aussie born, London based, Lawrence Millar, Head Of Commercial Partnerships at Earth Music Agency and Founder of Cosmo-Media. With over twenty years of industry experience, Millar is a highly innovative creative thinker, who connects people and music all over the world. Lawrence works closely with agencies, brands, talent, NGO’s and charities, with a balanced and positive approach to various music, and entertainment projects, involving marketing, partnerships, music management, publishing, social media, sync deals, licensing, the list goes on. James and Lawrence discuss how brand partnerships in music have evolved and their thoughts on the current state of festival and club bookings, as they reflect over 2022.

FOLLOW LAWRENCE MILLAR:

https://www.instagram.com/llawrencemillarr/

https://www.cosmo-media.net/

In this episode of Electronic Music Life with James Locksmith, is with Barcelona based Isabelle (Izzy) Naud, former electronic music industry professional in events, marketing and communications. Izzy is now a Tai Ji Quan instructor, physical therapist, Shiatsu and Thai massage therapist, and Third Dan Black Belt Kung Fu fitness coach specifically for electronic music artists and professionals. Izzy's career spans over twenty years combining both electronic music and martial arts experience. It was over a decade ago Izzy transitioned to working as a martial artist instructor, therapist and fitness coach for the electronic music industry, finding purpose serving the electronic music industry to achieve success and high performance. James and Izzy discuss burnout and the widely more accepted and rapidly growing health and wellbeing services for the electronic music industry in today’s current climate.

FOLLOW IZZY NAUD:

https://izzynaudwellbeing.com/