EP.125 I went from Resident DJ to Record Label Owner - R3Wire
Feb 6, 2025
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Dive into the dynamic world of R3WIRE, who transitioned from resident DJ to record label owner at Stereohype. He shares insights on what labels seek in artists and the day-to-day life in the industry. Hear about his experiences touring with James Hype, the challenges of securing a DJ visa for the U.S., and balancing technical skills with crowd energy. R3WIRE also reflects on the evolving landscape of DJ content creation and the unpredictable journey to musical success. Get ready for a glimpse into his upcoming U.S. tour!
R3WIRE emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability in building a DJ career through understanding audience preferences and overcoming personal challenges.
He highlights the shift towards independent label management as a path for creative freedom and sustainable growth, particularly after the limitations faced with major brands.
Deep dives
The Journey of Dedication
The speaker emphasizes the challenges faced while building a career as a DJ, particularly the long hours and minimal financial rewards. Despite working tirelessly, performing for low pay, and initially feeling stagnant in growth, a pivotal moment of realization motivated a shift in focus. Gaining a significant following through live streams showcased the power of reaching a broader audience, ultimately leading to international bookings. This dedication to the craft, despite setbacks and criticisms, formed the foundation of a successful DJ career.
Learning from Experience
Early experiences in the DJ scene, including performing poorly in front of live audiences, contributed to professional growth and the honing of skills. Transitioning from mixing in private to performing in various settings, including club nights and party islands, taught the importance of understanding audience preferences. The speaker reflects on the difficult lessons learned during these formative years, such as adapting to different crowds and styles while overcoming personal insecurities. These experiences, though challenging, built resilience and laid the groundwork for future successes.
The Importance of Brand Building
The speaker discusses the crucial realization that aligning with major brands restricted personal growth and creative freedom. Initially believing that joining prominent labels would elevate their career, the reality proved disappointing due to limited opportunities for individual advancement. The COVID-19 lockdown served as a turning point, prompting a reassessment of priorities and the decision to pursue independent projects. Collaborating with a fellow DJ to launch their label presented a new path that aligned more closely with personal aspirations and allowed for sustainable growth.
Evolving with the Industry
The speaker highlights the dynamic changes in the DJ industry, particularly a shift towards more accessible performance times and diverse public engagement. Innovations like day parties and livestreams have expanded the potential for outreach and audience connectivity while promoting healthier lifestyles among DJs and attendees. Building an online presence through consistent content creation has not only enhanced visibility but also facilitated networking opportunities necessary for global bookings. Embracing these modern changes is essential for continued relevance and success in the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Join us for an exclusive deep dive into the career of R3WIRE – DJ, producer, and label manager at Stereohype. From his early days as a resident DJ to dominating the decks on party islands across the world, R3WIRE shares how he built his career and developed his signature high-energy style.
We explore his transition into working with James Hype, how he became label manager of Stereohype, and what it takes to get your track signed to a major label. Aspiring producers, take notes! R3WIRE breaks down the day-to-day life of a label manager, offering insight into what labels look for in new artists.
A true DJ’s DJ, R3WIRE has always pushed technical performance in his sets, showcasing insane skills on Instagram. But does this translate to big-stage performances? We get his thoughts on balancing technicality with crowd energy.
Plus, with a U.S. tour on the horizon, we discuss how he landed the opportunity, where he’s playing, and his goals for the future. He also reflects on touring with James Hype on the Get Closer tour and shares what life on the road is really like.
Timestamps
00:00 Grinding through the early days 02:05 First DJ setup at 14 04:50 First club gig at 16 07:30 Learning the club scene abroad 10:45 Joining Ministry of Sound 13:05 Touring with MTV 16:50 Starting Stereohype with James Hype 21:45 What labels look for in artists 29:10 The importance of DJ content 39:50 Touring the U.S. in 2025