Trackstack Podcast

Trackstack Podcast E39: ARAPU — Why He Never Prepares a DJ Set 03.07.2026 58min

Bucharest-born DJ and producer Arapu joins the Trackstack Podcast for an honest conversation about trusting instinct over strategy. He opens up about the early days moving to Bucharest with no money and no plan, working just one month in his entire life, and surviving purely on his parents' belief in him while he taught himself to produce. From there, he breaks down why he never prepares a DJ set, how he built his label Liniar as a vinyl-only outlet, and why following feeling over formula has shaped everything since. He also gets into the oversupply of music today and his thoughts on AI in production.Follow Arapu: @arapu__

Building Trackstack: The OS for Electronic Music Artists 22.04.2026 41min

In this episode, Trackstack co-founders Cameron and George Perry pull back the curtain on what Trackstack is really becoming. Not just a demo submission tool, but a complete operating system for building a sustainable career in electronic music.They get into the honest truth about what it actually takes to go from making tracks in your bedroom to becoming a working artist: why your first 100 pro fans matter more than chasing the biggest DJs, how to build your network city by city, and why doing it with the people around you beats doing it alone.They also walk through the full Trackstack product suite — Inbox, Studio, Elevate, and the brand new Store — and explain how each one maps to a different stage of the artist journey. Studio is getting a major rebuild away from music education and towards genuine community building. Elevate opens up a marketplace for production coaching, mixing, and mastering. And the Store means no track ever has to disappear into a private SoundCloud link again.Plus — what's coming up at IMS Ibiza and what the rest of 2026 looks like for Trackstack.Chapters:0:00 – What is Trackstack OS?2:40 – Being an artist vs. having a career7:00 – The real purpose of Inbox10:30 – Why your city matters more than the biggest DJs15:30 – Studio rebuilt19:30 – Elevate: the artist services marketplace34:00 – The Store: a home for every track you make40:00 – IMS and what's nextConnect with Trackstack on Instagram: @trackstack.proConnect with Cameron & George on Instagram: @cameronembling @george_trackstack

Industry Experts: How Artists Can Market Themselves on Social Media (with Katie Knight) 02.04.2026 38min

Katie Knight sits down with us to break down how electronic music artists can actually grow on social media without burning out or losing themselves in the algorithm.She shares what's working right now on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, how to create content that doesn't feel forced, and why most artists are wasting time on the wrong platforms.If you're struggling to grow your audience or don't know where to start with content, this conversation will give you a clear path forward.What we cover:Which platforms matter for electronic music artists (and which don't)How to create content that feels authentic, not performativeThe biggest mistakes artists make on social mediaBuilding an audience vs. chasing followersHow to balance content creation with actually making musicPlatform-specific strategies for Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeWhy consistency beats perfection every timeTurning social media presence into real career opportunitiesCONNECT WITH KATIE KNIGHT:Instagram: @katiehayknightYouTube: @KatiehayknightTRACKSTACK:🔗 Website: https://trackstack.app📱 Instagram: @trackstack.pro📲 Submit your demos at trackstack.app

Industry Experts: How To Build Your Audience as an Electronic Musician (with Andrew Leese) 31.03.2026 1t 7min

Andrew Leese is a digital marketing strategist, social media expert, and founder of Socially Sound and UNFILTERED — helping independent electronic music artists build sustainable careers through strategic branding, content, and marketing.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:- The reality of building your audience and going full-time.- Why most artists underestimate how long it takes (and quit too early)- The five revenue streams every electronic musician should build- How to know when you're ready to make the leap (and when you're not)- The biggest mistakes aspiring full-time artists make- Geographic arbitrage: how location affects your ability to go full-time- Building leverage as an artist: systems, content, and long-term strategy- Why consistency and patience matter more than talent- How to stay motivated when results aren't immediate- What labels actually look for in artists (and why DIY often wins)🔗 Connect with Andrew Leese:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewleese89🔗 Connect with Trackstack:Website: https://trackstack.appInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trackstack.pro/

Trackstack Podcast E37: Reviewing 500 Tracks a Week | Oskar (Songstats Co-Founder) 18.03.2026 1t 39min

Oskar (Co-Founder, Songstats) joins us in Bangkok for a wide-ranging conversation about the real mechanics behind building a music career from reading streaming data to embodying your artist identity.We cover the Songstats origin story, what the data actually tells us about how the music industry is changing, and why some of the most important decisions artists can make have nothing to do with algorithms.TOPICS COVERED– How Songstats was built bootstrapped from Bali, and why that shaped everything– What streaming and playlist data reveal about artist growth and label strategy– Why artist-owned labels are replacing the old industry gatekeepe– The economics of labels: Beatport vs streaming, and what actually pays– Oskar's demo curation process — reviewing 500 tracks a week and what he's listening for– DONT BLINK and LOW CEILING Records: running two labels with very different approaches– The 1001Tracklists / Tomorrowland joint venture (1001 Recordings) and how it works– John Summit, Experts Only, and the rise of artist-run labels– Songstats data integration coming to Trackstack — what that means for artists and labels– AI's impact on small dev teams: how Songstats and Trackstack operate at scale with tiny teams– The "artist mindset" shift — embodying your identity before the bookings come– Going full-time in music: ramen profitability, geographic arbitrage, and the real leap– Tour life realities: staying healthy, giving 100% every night, and building markets from scratch– Argentina, Brazil, Korea, US debut: how DONT BLINK approaches new markets– Why storytelling is the most underrated skill in electronic musicCONNECT WITH OSKAR & SONGSTATS🔗 Songstats: https://songstats.com📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/styline/👀 DONT BLINK: https://instagram.com/dontblinkmusic 🎵 LOW CEILING: https://instagram.com/lowceilingmusicCONNECT WITH TRACKSTACK🔗 Website: https://trackstack.app📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trackstack.pro/

Trackstack Podcast E38: MAHONY - The Truth About DJing Nobody Talks About 18.03.2026 1t 12min

Trackstack Podcast E38 | MAHONYRomanian DJ and producer MAHONY sits down with us in Bangkok for one of the most honest conversations we've had on the podcast. From burning out after 14 shows in a summer, to trusting your instincts over your management's opinion, to why he thinks the sync button is killing DJing. If you're an aspiring DJ or producer trying to figure out how to build something real in this industry, this episode is for you. Topics covered:- Burnout, mental health and knowing when to stop- Why your goals should never be about money or lifestyle- The sync button debate and what's lost in modern DJing- Building Take Notes label from zero- Fake followers, booking culture and industry shortcuts- Trusting yourself when everyone around you disagrees- Sunwaves, Romania's scene and why community beats egoConnect with MAHONY on Instagram @mahonyro🎧 Stream on Spotify: Trackstack Podcast📲 Submit your demos at trackstack.app#Mahony #TrackstackPodcast #DJPodcast #ElectronicMusic #TakeNotes

Building Trackstack: 2.0 (UNPACKED) 12.09.2025 57min

We’re transforming Trackstack from a demo inbox into a revenue engine for electronic music professionals. In this episode, we unpack what 2.0 really means — new tools, new features, and a new way for DJs, producers, and curators to build sustainable careers on their own terms.

E35 - Blue Method 08.09.2025 54min

In this episode of the TrackStack podcast, host Presha interviews Blue Method, an artist from Zurich with roots in Cameroon. They discuss Blue's early experiences with music, the challenges of defining his artistic identity, and the creative process behind his track 'Indigo.' Blue shares insights on finding new music, the importance of understanding music's roots, and the vulnerability of being an artist. He emphasizes the importance of intentional listening and connecting with his audience, while also reflecting on the lessons learned throughout his journey. The conversation concludes with Blue's advice for the TrackStack community and his dream collaborations.

GOING SOBER: After The After Party with Sean Willers 03.09.2025 1t 5min

Sean Willers shares his insights on going sober and how to live a balanced lifestyle as a DJ/Producer.

Building Trackstack: The 2025 Roadmap 03.02.2025 1t 11min

Cameron & George sit down in London, January 2025 to talk about their journey building Trackstack. Covering new product announcements, how they handle growth and their view on the future of the electronic music industry. @trackstack.app Get started with Flow Inbox: https//www.trackstack.app

E34 - From Burnley to Beats: Karl Lingard 23.01.2025 1t 10min

Karl Lingard shares his journey from a musical upbringing to becoming a DJ and producer. He discusses the importance of networking in the music scene, the challenges he faced in his career, and the realizations he had about success and self-worth. Karl emphasizes the significance of a creative process that is free from pressure and the balance between his music career and personal life. He also outlines his future plans for career development and the importance of building a sustainable music business. In this conversation, Cameron and Karl Lingard explore the multifaceted journey of a DJ, discussing the importance of building a solid foundation, the unseen work behind music production, and the evolving landscape of social media, particularly TikTok. They delve into the challenges of the electronic music scene, the significance of authenticity, and the necessity of patience and enjoyment in the pursuit of success. Karl shares insights on learning and teaching within the industry, emphasizing the value of free education and personal growth. Takeaways Networking is essential for building relationships in the music scene. Support videos can significantly impact a track's success. Lockdown provided an unexpected opportunity for music production. Success should not be solely measured by external validation. It's important to maintain self-worth independent of industry fluctuations. A creative process should be intuitive and free from pressure. Balancing a music career with personal life is crucial for sustainability. Building a client base can provide financial security. Exploring various genres can enhance artistic expression. Planning and gradual steps are key to transitioning into a full-time music career. It's important to build a solid foundation in your career. Many people don't see the extensive work that goes into being a DJ. Social media, especially TikTok, is crucial for engagement. Authenticity is key in today's music industry. The electronic music scene is rapidly evolving. Getting gigs is becoming increasingly competitive. Free education has transformed music production learning. Patience is essential in the music industry. Enjoy the process of making music and don't rush. Letting go of frustrations is vital for growth.

E33 - RSquared 06.01.2025 1t 1min

Ryan and Rory, two friends who met at Bournemouth University, joined forces to create the duo "RSquared." Taking inspiration from Music On and Paradise, as well as their love of disco, funk, and tech, they nurtured their sound to create a unique, catchy, and energetic vibe. Since releasing their first EP in early 2020, they have gone on to sign with record labels such as Knee Deep in Sound, 303 Lovers, Too Many Rules, and Libero Records, among others. RSquared's sharp percussion and rolling drums have garnered support from DJs such as Hot Since 82, Marco Carola, Jamie Jones, Dennis Cruz, and Paco Osuna. They have also received a significant amount of support on radio stations such as BBC and Kiss FM. With 2023 on the horizon, the young duo is poised to cement their place as rising talents in the tech house scene. Connect with RSquared Website Instagram Soundcloud Twitter Facebook Key Background & Formation: R-squared formed while at Bournemouth University, initially starting as solo artists before coming together The name "R-squared" came after trying various options, chosen for its simplicity They started by DJing before moving into music production Got early studio lessons from established artists like Iglesias which helped accelerate their learning Musical Development & Style: Initially sounded similar to Iglesias but developed their own distinct sound incorporating: 80s influences and disco elements Distinctive use of big snares and percussion Multiple layered baselines created by combining different samples Known for their unique sampling techniques and loop manipulation Career Journey: Took 2-3 years of consistent releases before getting regular gigs Notable breakthrough track "Brown Eyes" released on Knee Deep Records Have upcoming releases planned with Nicole Moudaber's "In The Mood" label Looking to expand into US market and have plans for Miami Music Week Production Insights: Use creative sampling techniques, including: Combining multiple baseline samples Extensive use of percussion due to Rory's drumming background Starting tracks at slower BPM (122-123) before speeding up Focus on finding unique samples from obscure sources Personal Growth: Rory opened up about his sobriety journey (55 days at time of recording) Discussed how sobriety has improved his music production and performance Now taking piano lessons and exploring new creative outlets Emphasized the importance of discussing addiction/recovery in the music industry Industry Insights: Discussed changes in the industry including: Need for social media presence and marketing Importance of consistent releases Evolution of tech house sound Growing US market for their genre Balance between label releases and self-releasing Advice for New Artists: Start producing music alongside DJing rather than waiting Be consistent with releases (aim for monthly if possible) Don't be afraid to start by emulating others before developing your own sound Focus on being creative and finding unique samples Don't be too hard on yourself during the development process

E32 - Oskar Eichler: Building Songstats, 1001Tracklists & touring as DONT BLINK 31.10.2024 1t 43min

Oskar Eichler is a Entrepreneur and DJ / Producer who has built Songstats and 1001Tracklists as well as being one half DONT BLINK @dontblinkmusic Summary 1. **Life as a Digital Nomad in Bali**: Oskar has been living in Bali for almost a decade, enjoying the relaxed, unique lifestyle that combines remote work with island vibes. He describes how Bali offers a distinct experience for digital nomads, comparing it to other hotspots like Thailand. For Oskar, Bali is a haven for those seeking balance between professional and personal life, complete with studios set in scenic villas. 2. **Evolution of the DJ Scene**: Oskar reflects on the transformation of the DJ scene, reminiscing about the days of physical records and vinyl culture. He shares how digital platforms, like YouTube, have reshaped the industry. Back in the day, DJs would dig for music in record stores, building connections through a shared love for music—a very different experience from today’s instant access to digital tracks. 3. **Challenges with Digital Rights and YouTube**: Oskar talks about his journey with a YouTube channel that quickly gained over 100,000 subscribers by sharing DJ mixes, only for it to be abruptly shut down due to licensing issues. Undeterred, he launched another channel, this time negotiating with electronic music labels for proper licensing, which grew to over a million subscribers. He shares the ongoing struggles DJs face with content ID systems, which often block or claim earnings from uploaded mixes. 4. **Nostalgia for Traditional DJ Practices**: Oskar expresses nostalgia for the original, hands-on elements of DJing, like beat matching on vinyl. He discusses how modern DJ software has removed much of the tactile experience, shifting the DJ’s role from crate-digging in record shops to managing playlists on digital platforms. Both he and the host agree that some of the social and creative magic of early DJ culture has been lost in the digital age. 5. **Connecting through Global Festivals**: Oskar highlights the importance of music industry events like ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) as opportunities for connection, collaboration, and celebration within the electronic music scene. Reflecting on his early years of “hustling” for connections, Oskar notes how the tables have turned—now, people seek him out, a testament to his growth and influence within the industry. **Episode Summary**: This episode presents Oskar’s insights and experiences in the evolving world of electronic music and DJing. He shares a mix of personal stories and professional reflections, from adjusting to Bali’s unique lifestyle to navigating the digital challenges in music. Oskar’s perspective underscores the resilience needed to adapt to the fast-paced changes in the industry, all while celebrating the roots of electronic music culture.

E31 - Manunaykene 12.09.2024 1t 11min

Manu Naykene, joins us for the Trackstack Podcast - EP 31. We touched on Manu’s origin story, how he got into DJing and content creation, advice for up-and-coming producers and much more. Send tracks to Manu: https://tstack.app/manu Send demos to KLUB RECORD: https://tstack.app/klub-record Connect with Manu: clozer.io/manunaykene Key takeaways: • Manu ecently completed a mini-tour, including performances in Dubai, Doha, and Mykonos. • Professionalism is crucial in DJing, including staying focused during performances and limiting alcohol consumption while playing. • Manu highlights the importance of "locking in" during performances to ensure the audience has a good time. • DJ etiquette and the balance between appearing as a "party person" while maintaining professionalism behind the scenes. • Manu's background to music starting DJing around 2016, inspired by South African DJs and the Afro house genre. • Getting gigs as a new DJ often requires persistence and "hustling" - reaching out to venues directly and being proactive. • The importance of enjoying the process of learning to DJ, such as the satisfaction of successfully transitioning between tracks. • Electronic music is becoming more global, with pop music increasingly incorporating electronic elements. • Modern DJ sets often include a variety of genres, focusing more on creating a "party vibe" rather than sticking to a single genre. • The value of building a career from the "grassroots" level and how it can help in the long run.

E30 - Sean Willers 08.08.2024 1t 10min

Sean Willers, UK from The Willers Brothers⁠ join us to share his story for life after the party. Having enjoyed a residency at Egg for over four years, we, Sean and Liam Willers, aka The Willers Brothers, became a highly successful DJ act, regularly playing top London clubs, including Ministry of Sound, Tobacco Dock, and more. As regulars on the Berlin music scene, we frequently played hotspots such as Watergate and Tresor. We also hit the decks at high-profile venues like Pacha in Barcelona, The Zoo Project in Ibiza, SWF Festival in Amsterdam, Bit Club in Sao Paulo, plus venues in Tokyo and Moscow. We were the second most listed DJs to play at Egg and were signed by the Watergate agency, which saw us move to Berlin and enthusiastically throw ourselves into the party lifestyle. Throughout our career, we played alongside many big-name DJs, including Darius Syrossian, Kerri Chandler, Waff, and Yousef. As music producers as well as DJs, we achieved several number ones on decks.de and top 10s on Beatport, releasing our catalogue on both vinyl and digital formats to high acclaim. However, the demanding nocturnal lifestyle began to take its toll. I, Sean, became gripped by a vicious drug and alcohol addiction, leaving me feeling like a wreck mentally, physically, and financially. We gained a reputation for excessive consumption, which started breaking down our relationships and negatively affecting our DJing work, causing us to repeatedly fall out with numerous agencies and people within the industry. Learn more about Willers Fitness https://willersfitness.co.uk/ Follow Sean on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willersfitness/

E29 - Kodewerk 11.07.2024 1t 12min

Kodewerk, Georgie Marshall UK joins us on The Trackstack Podcast. Episode Highlights: Miami Music Week Experiences: Recap of events, highlighting the unexpected rain and its impact on their plans. Anecdotes about attending a flooded restaurant and the overall vibe of the week. Professional Reflections: George shares his initial misconceptions about the event being more work-oriented, while it turned out to be largely social. Emphasis on networking and reconnecting with industry peers. Personal Journey: George opens up about his 15.5 months of sobriety and the positive changes it has brought to his life and career. Discussion on the importance of having a clear vision and purpose in his work. Future Aspirations: Plans to be more involved in both the creative and business sides of the music industry. Desire to participate more in conferences and events for professional growth. Aim to bridge the gap between artists and their audience by sharing more personal stories and backgrounds. Key Takeaways Networking and Reconnecting: Events like Miami Music Week are valuable not just for the music but also for the opportunity to reconnect with industry peers from around the world. Sobriety and Clarity: Georgie’s journey towards sobriety has provided him with a clear perspective and renewed focus on his career goals. Importance of Vision: Having a clear and well-defined vision is crucial for professional success and personal fulfilment. Engaging with the Audience: Sharing personal stories and connecting on a deeper level can enhance the audience’s connection with the artist. Future Plans: Continuous learning and involvement in the business side of the industry are key for long-term success. Kodewerk is one of the music scene’s true grafters – he’s spent the last decade immersing himself in dance music, honing his craft with the kind of hands-on shop floor experience that money can’t buy. Connect with Kodewerk ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kodewerk Connect with Trackstack ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/trackstack.app https://trackstack.app/

E28 - Ranger Trucco 11.06.2024 1t 5min

Ranger Trucco is one of house music’s fastest-rising talents. Combining effortless lyricism with infectious basslines, he wasted zero time cultivating a truly unique sound that resonates with electronic music fans globally. Both producer & vocalist - Ranger refused to let growing up 4 hours north of the nearest nightlife impede his plans of a future completely immersed in dance music culture. With performances at festivals and clubs nationwide on the horizon, it’s only up from here. Connect with Ranger https://www.instagram.com/rangertrucco https://www.rangertrucco.com/ Summary Ranger Trucco discusses his approach to collaborating with other artists and the positive impact it has had on his career. He emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and communication in collaborations. He also shares his journey as an artist and the influence of his parents on his music career. Trucco highlights the significance of having fun and not taking music too seriously, as well as the importance of finding inspiration outside of the studio. He discusses the balance between making music and managing social media, emphasizing the importance of being authentic and true to oneself. Ranger Trucco discusses the pressure of posting on social media and the importance of authenticity. He emphasizes the need for artists and brands to be themselves on social media and connect with their audience on a personal level. He also talks about the ego in the DJ industry and the importance of humility. Trucco predicts that minimal and deep tech will continue to grow in the US music scene. He advises DJs to have fun, not take themselves too seriously, and prioritize their mental well-being. Takeaways Collaboration is important for building your own projects and the overall sound Mutual respect and communication are key in successful collaborations Having fun and not taking music too seriously is crucial for creativity Finding inspiration outside of the studio is important for artistic growth Being authentic and true to oneself on social media is essential There is pressure to post on social media, but it's important to be authentic and connect with your audience on a personal level. Humility is crucial in the DJ industry, and the best DJs are often the most humble. Minimal and deep tech music genres are predicted to continue growing in the US music scene. Having fun and prioritising mental well-being are essential for productive and enjoyable music production. Don't take yourself too seriously as a DJ and remember that it's not that deep.

E27 - Yazmina 16.04.2024 1t 9min

Yazmina is a UK based Producer and DJ who grew up in Hackney, London. Her production and sets are a mix of Tech House, Minimal and Bass/Garage House, influenced by 90s through to current day House using a lot of old school Rnb, Hip Hop and Soul vocal samples. Summary Yazmina shares her journey in the music industry, from being in a pop rock band to exploring electronic music and eventually signing tracks to labels like Hottrax and Glasgow Underground. She talks about the importance of self-creation in her music and the balance between using sample packs and creating her own sounds. Yazmina also discusses her approach to making music, including a well organised approach to her files and back ups! She emphasises her key habit as the need to step away from a track and come back to it with fresh ears for better productivity and output. Yazmina shares her approach to managing her time in the studio, emphasizing the importance of stepping away to avoid burnout. She finds it productive to take breaks and engage in activities outside of the studio, as it helps her maintain energy and focus. Being a full-time producer has allowed her to have more flexibility in her schedule and implement a healthier structure. Yazmina also discusses the impact of rejection and how she has learned to handle it better over time. She advises other producers to invest in themselves, avoid comparing themselves to others on social media, and set clear goals. Takeaways Yazmina's approach to making music involves having a well organised file and back up system. Knowing when to away from a track and coming back to it with fresh ears for better productivity and output. Stepping away from the studio can be productive and help prevent burnout. Setting clear goals and creating a visual representation of them can help track progress and stay motivated. Handling rejection is a skill that can be developed over time, and it's important not to take it personally.

E26 - Building Trackstack MMW 2024 08.04.2024 1t 10min

Cameron & George sit down at Miami Music Week 2024 to talk about their journey building Trackstack. Covering new product announcements, how they handle customers and their view on the electronic music industry. @trackstack.app Get started with Flow Inbox: https//www.trackstack.app

E25 - Brendan James 31.01.2024 1t 14min

Brendan James, UK on Stacked. Rising underground house DJ, Brendan James originates from the south west UK with strong roots within the house and techno scene. Brendan also contributes his expertise openly on YouTube and through is 1 to 1 mentoring sessions under the 'Brendan James Music' brand. @brendanjames.music