Interview with DJ & Producer, H4ppy C4mper

By Julian Cuebas

H4ppy C4mper is an EDM artist and we have a mutual friend in Chattanooga's dance artist SpinChilla. Here is a profile interview with the DJ and producer.

Who is H4ppy C4mper? Has your name changed since you started?
C4mper: I'm an electronic DJ and producer currently based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. H4ppy C4mper is my original artist name. Derived from a shirt I bought from Callaway Gardens.

What genre/genre style would you say you fit in?
C4mper: My DJing has been leaning towards deep and dark dubstep lately. Bass heavy tracks that will really put the subs to work. My production takes more of a melodic approach, while still incorporating heavy bass elements.

Who/what inspires you?
C4mper: Seeing growth in the local scene has been really inspiring, Phillip Irwin (Soundsystem Dub Collection) with Soundsytem Cultures has been putting in serious work, bringing crazy talent through Chattanooga. Being able to work with Justin Mathieson (SpinChilla) has also been an inspiration to keep pushing forward.
 
What is a moment in your music career that has been difficult to overcome?
C4mper: Finding my own style and direction has been one of the more difficult parts of the process. Also receiving good, critical feedback can be tough. But it's valuable.

What does your music making process look like?
C4mper: My process for production usually starts with playing around with a few samples to find something I can vibe with. I"ll start arranging and adding other elements to fill out the main sections. From there, I"ll start to pull elements and build the intro/breakdown sections. Once I have the main structure laid out I"ll begin fine tuning everything with automation, sidechains, reverb, delays,, etc.

Who do you make music for?
C4mper: I began DJing out of a frustration with how music was being handled at parties lol. I'd say I produce music for myself and for my friends. I love getting lost in the process and seeing the final product at the end. Being able to share my music at event is an incredible feeling.

How has your music evolved since you first started?
C4mper: I think my tracks are starting to become a little more refined, and a bit more consistent with the style I'm developing. Some of my earlier tracks use some major keys and have a happier feel.. Most of my unreleased stuff lately has been all in minor keys and a bit darker. More dramatic with a use of strings.
 
How do you feel about the Internet and your industry?
C4mper: I think the Internet has really helped bridge a gap and has reduced a barrier to entry for becoming a music producer. Endless tutorials and samples give you many options to create something fun and unique.

What project would you like readers to check out?
C4mper: You can listen to my first album "Wanderlust" on Spotify. Also keep an eye on my SoundCloud for sneak peeks at new music. I have a lot of stuff in the works.
 
Any other comments?
C4mper: Thank you for the opportunity to share. I've had an incredible experience so far and I am grateful to those who have shown me support along the way. Especially my wife Katie, for listening to new tracks "just one more time."

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Music from H4ppy C4mper: