Today we’d like to introduce you to Dustin Skiles.
Hi Dustin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started djing in high school after becoming completely infatuated with rave music. The summer after I graduated, i went to a local community college and learned about digital audio recording and midi. I started my first dj residency the end of that year at The Wreckroom, Oklahoma City. After a two year run, I shifted to another club for about two years then back to the Wreck for another two years. In this time, I was playing regularly at raves, had a radio show, and promoted events. I started making edits and mashups to play in my sets and eventually started making original tracks.
My wife and I moved to Florida in 2001 so I could attend Full Sail. My entire goal was to learn how to make my music sound better. I fell in love with the entire recording process, went on to work in studios and live music production, took on loads of different roles throughout the years.
In the last few years, I’ve really dug my heels into the concept of playing music live by syncing up synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers. This year has seen the first few shows and starting to book dates for next year.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s never been smooth but I’ve had an amazing support system. Ive always been able to work and do what I love. The biggest obstacle I still face is my mental health. Imposter syndrome, losing gigs, not getting the gig, a remix not coming out, song not getting the reaction I hoped for… all this stuff has had me playing such weird mind tricks on myself.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I perform live, improvised electronic music with synthesizers, drum machines, samplers and other hardware. By design, no two shows are ever the same. Sometimes it’s a dj-style set with club music blended seamlessly. Sometimes it’s eclectic and sort of all over the genre map. Im still at the very early stages of this and really excited it’s coming together so quickly. Just a few years ago, I was trying to make music in real time without a computer. To see it grow from that to actually playing shows is a wonderful feeling.
What does success mean to you?
Giving something your best efforts whilst keeping your integrity is one way I see it. If I can look back and say I did those things, I know I succeeded to some degree.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://dustinskiles.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/skilesmusic
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/dustinskilesmusic
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@skilesmusic
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/dustinskiles
- Other: http://dustinskiles.bandcamp.com
Image Credits
Ed Chapowski
Breana Skiles
