Exploring Sound and Performance: Andrew Canlon on His Journey in Electronic Music
Andrew Canlon, a rising figure in the Electronic Music scene, joins us to share insights into his latest projects, creative process, and vision for the future. With a Classical Music background and a passion for live performance, Andrew brings a unique perspective to his music, balancing hands-on instrumentation with modern technology. In this interview, he reflects on the success of his live rooftop set, discusses the evolution of his sound, and offers a glimpse into his aspirations for touring and collaboration.
Hi Andrew Canlon, how are you?
Doing well, thank you.
Can you share which of your current projects you’re most excited about?
Yes, I have a live rooftop set that has already been viewed on Youtube over 20,000 times, which is absolutely mindblowing. It was filmed at East Harlem Atrium, which was absolutely gorgeous. The whole thing was done DIY, and we really lucked out because the sunset that night was literally perfect. I also have a new single that has been doing well, called “Liquid Love”. I actually just found out today that it has surpassed 10,000 streams. Thanks so much to all of the kind folks around the world who have taken the time to listen. There are also multiple remixes and collaborations in the works as we speak.
Your Classical Music background plays a key role in your music. How do you think your experiences influence your approach to producing electronic tracks today?
I don’t want this to come across as arrogant, but honestly, having a technical understanding of music theory just makes for a better show. I have seen a wide spectrum of performance techniques in the Electronic Music space. There are some real innovators out there, but sadly there are plenty of people pursuing a music career who don’t even know what music is. I think it only hinders their sustainability in the long run.
What elements of your live performances are you focusing on at the moment?
I’m always focused on my keyboard game. I’m a piano player at heart. I’m not a pianist. I wouldn’t give myself that much credit, but I know my way around a synth the way a motorhead knows his way around a Harley.
Have you made any changes to your setup or style recently?
I’ve added my laptop to my setup recently. It just helps avoid any potential problems of overloading my sampler, especially when you’re playing hour-long mixes.
How do you envision your live performances evolving over the next few years? Do you have any dream venues or new performance ideas you’d like to bring to life?
As much as performing solo has been an incredible journey to this point, I’m never going to deny myself the opportunity to be on stage with other musicians. I can see it evolving by breaking more parts out of the mix and having them be performed live as well.
Dream venues? I do, but I’m waiting on the powers that be to get me booked on a tour first. I’m fortunate to have enlisted some awesome industry professionals who have really supported my vision.
I’m a musician. I make music, but where I play at this point is up to them. I’m looking for a legitimate touring deal.
Any takers?
In terms of sound and creativity, what do you think sets your music apart from others in the Electronic Music scene right now?
May I speak freely? I see and hear a lot of repetition in the Electronic Music scene. That’s not to say the music is bad. It’s not. It’s gorgeous. But there are clearly template mixes being applied to new tracks, which makes everything more or less sound the same. Yes, it’s seamless and beautiful, but it often lacks individuality.
This goes back to my previous point about knowing what music really is, and what it means to perform, with or without laptops and DJ decks.
My mixes are far from perfect, but I apply new instrumentation, new tools, hands-on dynamics, etc. to every mix.
Huge credit should be given to Dmitry Libman, Joey Wunsch and some of the other collaborators I’ve worked with who have helped perfect my mixes. You can’t underestimate the value of collaboration in any musical genre.
Looking ahead, what are some creative goals you’re hoping to achieve in the next year?
One word: Touring.
I’m ready.
I’m practicing patience and waiting for the right opportunity. But I’ve been assured that touring is a realistic possibility in 2025, so let’s see what happens.
Are there any collaborations or partnerships that you’re looking forward to in the near future? How do you see these collaborations shaping your sound?
Yes, and in certain cases, I’m just waiting on the boring contract details to resolve themselves. God help me.
In other cases, it’s more of a collaborative process right now, just sending rough mixes back and forth and trying to appeal to your co-writer’s sensibilities. I’d love to drop some names, but I’ll wait until the people facilitating said collaborations actually finalize the details.
What role do you think technology will play in your future work? Are there any new tools or software you’re eager to incorporate into your production process?
I’m not afraid of technology. As long as I can still play music, I’ll find a way to work with it. What does that mean in literal terms? I have no idea.
But, yeah, I’m always down to try new stuff.
Lastly, where do you see the future of Electronic Music heading, and how do you plan to evolve alongside the changes in the industry?
Hopefully it will start to sway back in the direction of performance. Electronic Music has gotten a bit too removed from actual “playing” music on stage in my personal opinion. There’s far too much automation happening and the audience is catching on. That’s not true across the board. I’ll give credit to any producer who is doing that, but yeah, more music. More performance. Less production. Less distractions. I hope to help be a part of that movement going forward.
As Andrew Canlon continues to develop his sound and explore new opportunities, his focus remains on pushing the boundaries of live performance and maintaining authenticity in a fast-changing industry. With the hope of upcoming collaborations, ambitious touring plans, and a dedication to creative growth, Andrew’s journey remains one to watch, so be sure to stay connected with him via social media to witness how his passion and innovative approach continue to shape his next musical chapter.
Andrew Canlon Online
