Alexis Chang, DJ + Artist

Interview by Gabrielle Barnes

What inspires you to make music? 

I’m constantly drawing inspiration simply from being a music lover and listening to so many types of music all the time! Sometimes when I listen to songs, I pay close attention to the production techniques, the lyrics, or how the music makes me feel and really try to recreate elements I admire in my own music. More than that though, I’m most inspired by the people in my life; most of my best friends are also musicians, so whenever we are together, we jam and freestyle which really gets my creative juices FLOWING. 

How do you prepare your sets? 

Honestly, I’m still learning what works best for me when preparing my DJ sets, but I usually start with putting together a playlist of songs/artists that have the vibe I want to give to the event/crowd I’m going to be DJing for. After that, I spend time practicing transitions that work well in between those songs. I don’t fully prep the order of the songs in my mixes because that would take away the fun of DJing, but it definitely helps to practice which songs transition well into other songs.

Can you talk more about the creative community at your school [Occidental College]? 

The creative community at my school is super special; ever since I got here in August, it has been super easy to find other students who want to collaborate and make art together. I’m constantly meeting new people through our love for music (whether it’s producing, freestyling, or even DJing) and I’m so grateful for that!

What are you listening to right now? 

I’ve really been into Amaarae lately; I’m in love with her voice and all the beats she sings over because they have so many elements of Afrobeats in them (I looooove Afrobeats). I’ve been listening to a lot of Rema, Wizkid, and Midas the Jagaban (who is one of my favorites). Preparing for this DJ set has also really gotten me back into Kaytranada who is one of my favorite producers OF ALL TIMEEE. 

How do you balance using social media as a creative outlet but also as a workspace? 

Social media is so great for me because it’s such a powerful way to connect and network with other artists. It’s so easy to reach out to people that I want to collaborate with–I live in the New Haven/Hamden area and have been able to meet so many musicians my age who have become some of my best friends just through Instagram. Social media is also a way for me to build my brand by posting content of my music as well as promoting events that I’m going to be a part of!

What have you learned through being a musician? 

I’m always continuing to learn so much through being a musician, but specifically this year I’m learning to remember that everyone goes at their own creative pace, and that I need to take it easy on myself! I used to compare myself to other musicians so much, but I’ve learned that having goals while also moving at my own pace is so valuable. I’ve also learned to not put too much pressure on myself, because I never want to turn my art into something that feels like work. I’m currently working on an EP that I’m hoping to release sometime very soon, but also not trying to rush it; I’m so excited for 2022 and everything that’s gonna come with it!

As told to CWC.