Pacemkr is an emerging DJ and producer based in Reno, Nevada. The talented artist brings on a diverse sound that is fueled by dark tones and emotions. PaceMKR seeks to push the envelope with his sound and bridge various elements from different genres to make a well-rounded, dynamic style that is truly his own.
https://www.instagram.com/PaceMKR
http://www.twitter.com/TheRealPaceMKR
https://youtube.com/channel/UC4HAB3Ep3_CQJPVrtTY-ciw
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0rr9itWNqnQgEbPdHhVdZ7?si=M_7Ag5T7TGGQqMjzCNll-A
1.) What elements and/or characteristics made you say to yourself that you wanted to do music for a living? Who are your influences/heroes/role models?
I wanted to work in the music industry for the sole purpose of expressing myself through music. I love being able to create a story with my songs for people to interpret on their own.
Some of my biggest influences include Skrillex, Kayzo, and Sullivan King.
2.) If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why? If you don’t like to compare yourself, then music-wise, what separates you from other musicians?
I try not to compare myself to other artists but I believe my Horror and Rock influences bring a lot of fresh sounds into the Dubstep Genre setting me apart from others.
3.) Everyone in life goes through adversity of some sort. Is there anything in your life that has any influence on the kind of songs you write? What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure on your path to becoming a musician?
One of the hardest things I ever had to go through in life was almost passing away due to my heart stopping. I am lucky enough to have a pacemaker implanted allowing me to continue on with music and life. This has really shown me to go out and do what you want while you can, life is short. Don’t make music for others, make music for yourself.
4.) How do you prepare yourself to write certain songs? What is your song-writing and recording process?
I start each song with a clear story in my head that I want to convey. From there I start adding layers and elements that help portray the story. Each song is its own story in an overarching combined world.
5.) Unfortunately the music industry is full of talented individuals who just don’t get any recognition for their talent and/or hard work. What do you plan to do to make sure you stand out and get noticed? Would you rather be on a major label or would you rather stay independent? Why or why not? In regards to the music industry itself, do you think that the traditional music industry model as we know it is dead?
As of right now, I am currently releasing my songs through my label PaceMKR Records for more control on the overall productions, but am happy to work with major labels as well. I think the music industry landscape is changing all of the time. And we have to always be ready to adapt with it. Not too long ago iTunes changed a lot of the land scape of the music industry, shortly after streaming has now dominated with sites like Spotify and Apple Music. Artists now have to work with the previous industry model as well as tracking their own way.
6.) Are you able to make a living with your music? If so, how were you able to attain a career doing what you love? If not, what do you do in order to fund your music career? What advice would give to someone who’s interested in pursuing a career in music?
The best advice I can give to any other artists pursuing their music career is to keep trying. Every step is a step to a larger path. Don’t worry about comparing yourself to others success in streaming, shows, or anything else. We all have our own journey and someone else’s may not be like yours. Trust yourself and work at it, with time you will get there.
7.) How do you think the internet and social media affected the music industry and how musicians are able to market themselves? Social media is obviously an extremely important element in today’s world, especially when it comes to business, branding, marketing, etc. With that being said, do you think an artist will be able to survive in today’s music industry if they’re not social media savvy?
Social media has really allowed new and undiscovered artists to really breakthrough into any music scene. It has really become a great mediator for artists with a lot of money and artists with none. That being said, you have to have your branding right. Branding is everything, and your social media is your brand. Your listeners have to connect with your brand the moment they see your profile otherwise that is a lost opportunity.
8.) Artists who try to make music for the general public and make more money are usually seen as “sell-outs.” Do you see it that way and if so, what do you plan to do to make sure your music stays true to your brand and make a good living at the same time without having to “sell out”?
I believe artists are humans, we evolve over time to new sounds, new likes, new interests. When a fan no longer feels connected to the brand, an artist portrays they feel the artist has sold out. I believe all artists have their own reasons for their choices but I try and stay away from any judgement.
9.) Professionally, where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
5 years from now I hope to be playing as many live shows as I can touring nationally and globally. New music all of the time and that will never change. Stay tuned for more!