WonkyWilla x Ghost Lotus Bring the Heat w/ New Stomper “Head Knockin”

WonkyWilla x Ghost Lotus Bring the Heat w/ New Stomper “Head Knockin”

by | May 25, 2023 | PREMIERE

There is nothing that beats a high-energy collaboration between two up-and-coming bass wizards that will have anyone up and bopping around the dancefloor. This is the exact track that heavy hitters WonkyWilla and Ghost Lotus have teamed up to create, leaving many wanting more from this dynamic duo. Our premiere today, “Head Knockin” is an absolute slammer, packing an infectious punch with each bar. This tune is truly a “do not miss” with its booming bassline, and WonkyWilla’s signature drum beats making this the perfect blend of both artists’ styles. This is definitely a collaboration everyone is going to want more of in the future, as “Head Knockin'” will be catching the ears of loyal fans and new listeners all over. There is no doubt that we are going to have this one on repeat for the foreseeable future! Let’s take a deeper dive into why we are calling this heater “Head Knockin'”, a certified bop.

WonkyWilla – “This is a song that just forces you to move your body and get weird”

Ghost Lotus – “WonkyWilla and I linked up for the first time to bring a tune packed with energy and wonk. Will surely make your head KNOCK!”

Diving Deep w/ WonkyWilla and Ghost Lotus

1. How did you decide to get into making music? Was there a certain event in your childhood/life that made you stop and realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

“Very specifically, watching Skrillex from the fence at Made in America Festival 2012 in Philadelphia, PA. I was about 12 years old at the time and just discovered the idea of dubstep and electronic music. Watching from the other side of a fence I knew I had to be here and that I had discovered my dream.” -WonkyWilla

“So I actually have zero musical background, but decided to start producing music after a few years in college when I realized I was not fit to sit in an office and work a 9-5.” -Ghost Lotus

2. Being an artist in the spotlight, you have a continuously growing impact on your fanbase and the scene. Due to the nature of this, have you had any fan interactions that have particularly hit home for you as an artist, and why?

“I have had people come from long distances to catch my set and get the opportunity to meet. Really means so much that the WonkyWilla project inspires others as that it’s a big part and goal of mine.” -WonkyWilla

“This past Halloween I had someone come up to me after my set and take a picture with me, as well as tell me how they love watching my progress as an artist.  That was cool because I didn’t realize people were actually paying attention.” -Ghost Lotus

3. As an artist, you can experience a number of roadblocks along the way to achieving your goals. What motivates you to continue to be creative and make music even when times get tough?

“Creative roadblocks can be super frustrating. I find myself taking a step away from the computer to do something else that still benefits my music. I love to spin on the decks with new music, watch your favorite artists live set, or if available go out and attend a show! These never fail to help me overcome any creative blocks!” -WonkyWilla
“What motivates me to keep going is all of my friends in the industry who are constantly putting out amazing art. It drives me to be better every day.” -Ghost Lotus

4. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned since you started making music? Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring producers hoping to follow in your footsteps?

“The biggest lesson I have learned is the importance of patience as well as continuing to work hard. You can’t expect yourself to dive in and be able to get it instantly. Making music is a never-ending learning experience which can be the most beautiful — bus also frustrating — thing about it. With dedication and hard work, you will continue to progress on this infinite journey.” -WonkyWilla

“The toughest lesson I’ve learned so far is that you are going to be broke af for a long time. Dedicating your life to making art a career is the biggest risk, with the biggest reward. The number one thing I always tell new producers is to keep going, don’t give up, and focus on yourself.” -Ghost Lotus

Z-Dougie Honors Brother w/ Special Teach You How to Dougie 2 Mix

Z-Dougie Honors Brother w/ Special Teach You How to Dougie 2 Mix

by | May 24, 2023 | Festival Exclusives, Releases

Sometimes the best way to express emotions is through music, the universal language that brings thoughts and feelings together in a way that anyone can understand. Sometimes something as simple as a melody, a favorite song, a heavy breakdown, or a calm beat can explain more than words or stories ever will. Music will always be something we as a universe collectively bond over, form memories with, and attribute to different experiences throughout life, and this is what Memphis-based producer, Z-Dougie, has strived to do with the release of Teach You How to Dougie 2, the homage to his brother and biggest inspiration. In honor of his late brother, Kyle, this special exclusive mix has been carefully created to encapsulate not only Kyle’s memory but also his music inspirations on the Z-Dougie project from its creation. “My brother and I were very close, and I’ve learned much of my style, taste in art, and many other things from him. I not only included a bunch of his favorite stuff, but throughout the mix, I’ve included interviews from legendary artists talking about the loss of loved ones to build a story of some sort.”, Z-Dougie stated when he spoke to us about the mix. Not only did this mix create a story, but it truly exemplified the immense impact his brother had on his life through music. Teach You How to Dougie is an emotional journey that everyone should experience, as it brings us back to our roots and reminds us that music is not only a way to express our feelings but to connect, inspire and heal together.

Diving Deep w/ Z-Dougie

1. You put together and released Teach You How to Dougie 2 in honor of your brother, Kyle. How did you incorporate his memory into this extraordinary mix?

This mix series was intended to release on my birthday in January, but he passed a week before and it just wasn’t happening. So I pushed it back to release on his birthday! He would have been 33, partying like he was 23. The Z-Dougie project has always been party bass and rap music, so I knew I couldn’t switch styles and make something sad. Kyle would be so mad if I killed the vibe, that wasn’t his style. In this volume, I included music from other artists I love that we’ve lost like CharlesTheFirst & Big Scarr, and interview clips of legends speaking on love, loss, purpose, legacy, etc. There’s intent behind the messages and the songs they lead into that apply to Kyle, and many others that we’ve lost too soon.

2. How did your brother inspire you in music and daily life? Did he play a big role in your pursuit of music the way you are right now?

Kyle introduced me to a lot of the music that inspires my project. He’s seven years older than me, so I wasn’t really looking for music myself at a young age, but he was always sharing. He got me into hip-hop, punk, jam, dubstep, and everything I draw inspiration from. He also showed me how to party, how to socialize, how to live in the moment, and what it means to really be strong. He was a cancer survivor after fighting for years in his early twenties, and he did it with a smile while cracking jokes. He didn’t make music himself so wasn’t hands-on with my journey, but there’s no limit to the influence he had on me growing up.

3. As you continue your musical journey and put out more music, play more shows, etc, how do you plan to continue incorporating Kyle’s memory since he had such an impact on the journey you have already begun?

I wasn’t able to work on anything for some months and finally knocked out this mix as my first project back. There’s A LOT of music to write, but there’s even more ideas to filter through. I have so many emotions on this it can be hard to translate them, but I’m working it out and the tunes are coming. 

More importantly though, I want to continue his legacy of being a helper. He was always willing to lend a hand, even to a stranger. I’ve done a little fundraising and charity work in my life, but am going to do a lot more. I encourage everyone reading to check out and consider donating to the organization that supported my brother during his fight against cancer (website below) or another in your area. If not that then that’s totally cool, here’s a reminder from Kyle to hug your family tight, call an old friend, and take more pictures! 

Website:

https://www.call-to-duty.org

4. Teach You How to Dougie 1 brought a lot of hype and was stacked with some absolute stompers! What can listeners expect from Teach You How to Dougie 2?

More unreleased music from myself including collabs with Crowell, DrewBeats, SICKISH, and Fringe! Bigger IDs from artists like Super Future, A Hundred Drums, Evalution, Volume Unit, and of course plenty of never heard edits/mashups!

This volume is very much a tribute to my brother and many of my favorite artists who aren’t with us anymore, but it doesn’t stray away from the party even with a sad theme. Kyle would want the party to go on, so I hope everyone turns it all the way up and goes crazy!

Ankou Transcends w/ New Remix of “Rotten in Silver” via Sorza Remix Album “RE IDENTIFY”

Ankou Transcends w/ New Remix of “Rotten in Silver” via Sorza Remix Album “RE IDENTIFY”

by | May 19, 2023 | Festival Exclusives

Finding the perfect remix of a song can be challenging to do when there can literally be hundreds of different artists remixing the same great tunes. The same can’t be said for the remixes of the I IDENTIFY album that Sorza put out to the world in 2021. Inviting artists from all over Europe to participate, the RE IDENTIFY album is full of different soundscapes and emotions, all creating one masterpiece of a 12-track compilation. Our premiere today is none other than Ankou’s remix of “Rotten in Silver”, a glitchy atmospheric tune that will take any listener on a journey through sound. Ankou’s remix of the track adds his own unique sound design, playing on the glitchy nature of the original track and bringing in a darker, tonal sound. There is no doubt that this entire album is an incredible listen from start to finish, so don’t sleep on checking this out. Let’s take a deeper dive into why we are calling Ankou’s remix of “Rotten in Silver” and the rest of the RE IDENTIFY album, a certified bop.

“‘Rotten in Silver’ is my favorite track of Sorza’s ‘I IDENTIFY’ album so I had no doubt which track to choose for my remix. For the last year, I have been very inspired by classic dubstep/140 sound so this was the direction I wanted to go for with my approach on this track but at the same time I didn’t want to lose the cinematic and atmospheric vibe the original track has so I tried combining both styles and I’m really proud of the result!” -Ankou

“With RE IDENTIFY some of my favorite more leftfield electronic acts remixed my personal debut project ‘’I IDENTIFY’’. Like the original project, the remix album is a whole listener experience. this 12-track Remix Album explores various genres within Experimental Bass & Electronics. It has been a long process but I’m so proud of how this remix album turned out and can’t wait to share it.” -Sorza

 

Diving Deep w/ Sorza & Ankou

1. How did you decide to get into making music? Was there a certain event in your childhood/life that made you stop and realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

Ever since I could remember, my mother has been a piano/ pianist teacher, although music has constantly been around me. I’ve been doing creative things as I recall, like making figures, houses, and creatures out of any materials I could find around my house. My mind is cluttered and chaotic, yet it is also highly creative. When I was a kid looking for an outlet, I tried various things, but after discovering music production, I could combine all of my creativity into one craft. My bond with Jozef (the other half of the dnb duo project The Outsiders), whom I met in high school in 2013, has been really valuable on this Journey. We got into production together and there was a competitive atmosphere of constantly pushing one another to the next level. -Sorza

I think I’ve always been into music, it’s hard to tell a specific moment but I remember I was really impressed by my uncle playing the guitar when I was 6 years old so I told my parents that I want to go to music school and learn to play it myself. All my childhood I was into rock and metal music and then in 2011/2012 I discovered Skrillex (pretty cliché) I was so intrigued by all those weird robotic sounds that I started looking for sound design tutorials on YT, downloaded FL Studio, and kept going since then. Pursuing a career in music is a natural result of my passion for sound and I cannot imagine myself doing anything else in life. -Ankou

 

2. You definitely have a very unique name for your project. Does the name have a specific meaning or derived from something in your life? Is there a story fans might not know about how you came to this name for your project?

 

I spent some time trying to come up with a name for my solo project. I used the temporary name Wano, which I still kind of like truthfully, but it didn’t feel right. Wano is also the name of the world association of nuclear operations, so that’s not really something you want to be associated with. One day I was using Google Translate to look up cool name inspiration. I was translating words into different languages eventually I selected Baskisch I never heard of the language before and was translating the word ‘’creation’’ and suddenly I had the word ‘’Sorkuntza’’. I liked the sound of it, but I didn’t like the kunt part (which also sounds like the British term cunt when said in Dutch), so I eliminated it and then I obtained Sorza. The sound was ideal for me. The timbre of the word and the way it looks resonates with me. Sorza sounds similar to ”sorcerer” and ”Source,” both of which are really cool as well, I do feel like a sound sorcerer sometimes. -Sorza

Mythologies have always been very inspiring for me, you can take my EP on Inspected called ‘Cosmogony’ as an example. I have to admit I am pretty bad at coming up with names so I found this website with a list of creatures, demons, and deities in different cultures and beliefs. That’s how I found out about “Ankou” who is a servant of death in Breton, Welsh, Cornish, and Norman folklore. A pretty disturbing creature appearing as a skeleton or simply a shadow (You can refer it to the artwork of my EP ‘Fatum’ by the amazing Kasper Plougmand). Thought it would suit my vision and that’s the whole story. -Ankou

3. As an artist, you can experience a number of roadblocks along the way to achieving your goals. What motivates you to continue to be creative and make music even when times get tough?

Currently, my main motivation now is my vision with Sorza. I’m looking for a balance between experimental bass music and electronic music to listen to. I’m attempting to find the appropriate combination of writing, composition, sound design, and texture. I aim for this balance, which gives me so much energy to work towards it. I feel like I have something new to bring to the table and want to share it with others as quickly as possible. -Sorza

In my opinion, it’s very important to have smaller milestones on the road because it’s insanely satisfying when you’re able to achieve them. For example for me at first, it was released with independent labels in the scene I liked and then things like getting on Noisia Radio (now VISION Radio) because it’s an amazing feeling to be appreciated by your idols. Releasing music with Inspected was a huge milestone for me and they helped me achieve my dream since I got into electronic music which was a premiere on UKF. Definitely, my biggest achievement so far was playing my US debut at Infrasound Music Festival in Minnesota and now I’m working really hard to get back there! -Ankou

4. What’s one cool fact about yourself/or your project that not many fans know about?

Well….. I use FL Studio, and many folks are often startled and occasionally assume I’m joking. There are numerous reasons why this is the ultimate nerd daw for me. I won’t delve into production details, however, I guess it’s a good sign when people can’t hear what programs you use, so I take it as a compliment. -Sorza

 I am a huge fan of FromSoftware and their work. Bloodborne is my favourite game ever and their other games like Dark Souls trilogy, Sekiro and Elden Ring had a huge impact on myself and my music. You can even find easter eggs, samples and references to them in my tracks but I won’t say which ones, I’ll let everyone have fun finding them on their own! -Ankou

Iora Breaks the Matrix w/ New Track “Helix”

Iora Breaks the Matrix w/ New Track “Helix”

by | May 11, 2023 | PREMIERE

Within the electronic bass scene, there is a constant ebb and flow of artists gaining their chance to step into the musical spotlight. Each new release is an opportunity to excel into the forefront of the EDM world and putting their project on the map. This is exactly what bass wizard and producer extraordinaire, IORA, has come to do with his latest stomper of a track, “Helix”, that we have the pleasure of premiering for you all today. With its driving 140 beat, electric synths, and high energy melody, this track is one for the books, captivating anyone who gets the chance to hear it. It’s almost hypnotic sound is one that is not to be missed and is sure to get entire dance floors up and moving. We will definitely have this one on repeat for the foreseeable future. Let’s take a deeper dive into why we are calling this rager, “Helix”, a certified bop. 

“This song is incredibly important to me for two main reasons. The first is that it represents the fusion of an emotionally evocative atmosphere with an energetic, driving beat. The second is that it provided the opportunity to share the stage with Sully at Electric Zoo and ultimately led to our forthcoming collaboration, which we teased together at Evolutions Festival last fall.”

Diving Deep w/ IORA

1. How did you decide to get into making music? Was there a certain event in your childhood/life that made you stop and realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

I didn’t fit in very well at my high school early on, and one of my outlets was listening to electronic music. A childhood buddy of mine showed me “Satisfaction”by Benny Benassi & The Biz back in like 2007 (I was late to that one), and that led to a deep exploration of different genres and styles. In 2010, at the height of my UKF Dubstep era (their YouTube channel was my main source of tunes back then), I stumbled upon the Doctor P remix of “Last Ones Standing” by Example. For some reason, this track above all others piqued my curiosity around how these tracks are made. So I went home from school one day and stole my mom’s Macbook (temporarily) to mess around in GarageBand. The 80s disco loops were great, but I wanted more creative freedom so I did a little research and bought Ableton Live 8 shortly after. I’ve taken a couple years at a time off music here and there since then, but getting laid off during COVID allowed me to rediscover that sense of wonder I had when I first downloaded Ableton. The mentors I connected with during that time rekindled that feeling I had when watching a Mr. Bill tutorial in my bedroom at home, having no idea what the dude was talking about (he’s a genius), but having so much fun just learning something new and dope from an amazing artist. More recently I’ve been feeling trapped in the corporate rat race, and after some soul-searching I realized that I don’t want to one day die knowing I didn’t at least try to realize the dream that I promised myself I’d chase at 14.

2. What has been a personal career struggle that you have battled with the most and how has it helped mold your character for the better good presently?

I think it would be the classic trifecta of perfectionism, fear of failure, and impostor syndrome (I list three because it’s all tied together). I think a major reason I’d take time off making music was due to this. Holding tracks for years because I never thought they were finished, turning down gigs or release opportunities because I didn’t want to make mistakes or be judged, and feeling like everyone in the scene is somehow better or cooler than me — these were massive roadblocks to my enjoyment of taking my music out of the bedroom studio or connecting to other artists and fans. I think these will always be a work in progress, but I’m proud to say that I’ve forced myself out of my comfort zone in all three of these areas with amazing results. I’ve released some music that’s been incredibly well-received and have an upcoming release on my dream label (take that, perfectionism!), I have some really amazing shows and festival bookings coming up this summer (I’d still rather not make mistakes, but I’m doing it!), and I’ve met some of my best friends through networking with other artists, even those who were mentors to begin with (shoutout Sully!). I guess this journey has allowed me to see my own courage and confidence that wasn’t there for a very long time, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

3. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned since you started making music? Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring producers hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Shoot your shot! Reach out to that artist and hit up that promoter! But do it politely, and remember that they are also just a person. The opportunities starting to unfold for me because I learned this lesson are invaluable. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help and find a mentor.

4. What’s next for your project? What plans do you have in the near future that you hope to accomplish as “IORA“?

Write and release a whole bunch of music. That’s the goal. I’m kicking my 2023 release calendar off with Helix, and have a major release next month. Going to keep writing and keep releases consistent going forward. I also want to put out my debut EP this year, so I’m workshopping concepts for that. It’s going to be a fun year!

Manic Focus Explores Mental Health w/ New LP and Exclusive HBS Guest Mix

Manic Focus Explores Mental Health w/ New LP and Exclusive HBS Guest Mix

by | May 8, 2023 | Exclusive

Exploring and supporting mental health in its many facets has been a pinnacle of importance both within the EDM community and around the world as of late. As this topic rises to the forefront of our ever-changing world, it has gained more of a platform for advocacy, especially throughout the music world. Denver-based bass producer, Manic Focus, is using his own artistic license to shed light on the world of mental health. With the release of his most recent LP entitled “Never Not Blue”, Manic Focus dives into his own personal mental health struggles, illustrating them with his music. This album serves as an inspiration to many, showing that though mental health issues can be challenging,  but should never hold anyone back from achieving their dreams.

In light of this motivating release, Manic Focus has put together an absolute heater of a guest mix for us here at Headbang Society. From start to finish this entire mix, packs a punch, exploring many different sounds and styles from Manic Focus and other nasty bass producers in the scene. This mix is a must-listen that we know will be on repeat for the foreseeable future!

Diving Deep w/ Manic Focus

1. Being an artist in the spotlight, you have a continuously growing impact on your fanbase and the scene. Due to the nature of this, have you had any fan interactions that have particularly hit home for you as an artist and why?

In recent years I’ve been more open about having Bipolar I, and that’s led to some very moving interactions with fans. Having discussions with fans about managing mental illness has been really inspiring in recent years. The fans have certainly helped me put things in perspective when I’m down and have kept me going when I’ve felt stuck and depressed.   

2. What has been a personal career struggle that you have battled with the most and how has it helped mold your character for the better good presently?

The touring lifestyle has always been challenging for me. In recent years, the road life has inspired me to quit drinking. I think my fans are incredibly kind, respectful, and welcoming to new fans at my shows, and while they know how to rage and get down, they party responsibly. It’s been a really awesome experience that keeps me on my A game. It’s a driving factor in creating better music and better shows.

3. What’s one cool fact about yourself/or your project that not many fans know about?

That’s a tough one because I think I’ve been pretty open about my life lately. I love magic (sleight of hand) and video games. I’d like to design a video game one day. I’ve been learning a bit more about cinematography and video editing too. I’m also trying to learn cartoon animation.

4. What’s next for your project? What plans do you have in the near future that you hope to accomplish as “Manic Focus“?

I’d like to make and release a ton more music this year. I’d also like to release some really cool video/documentary style content and possibly a cartoon. We also have some new merch coming out and are working on pressing some vinyl of my recent albums.