We’re just days away from our sixth annual Art + Soul celebration. Jillionaire, of electronic dance music trio Major Lazer, will be gracing the decks for a special performance on our waterfront terrace. But the award-winning Trinidadian DJ and music producer isn’t a stranger to the tropics. If you’ve caught his live shows in Miami in the past, then you know what’s in store, and you probably don’t want to miss this. Don’t have your tickets yet? There’s still time to purchase them here.
Jillionaire chatted with PAMM before the big night about his inspirations, his creative process, and more.
PAMM: What inspires you at this moment or in this period of your career/life?
Jillionaire: I’m mostly inspired by younger creatives who have a unique perspective on the world around them—artists and musicians that are re-inventing their craft, finding new ways to interpret it, and constantly challenging their medium.
What tends to be your starting point when it comes to creating a song?
I work with a handful of different producers from all across the world and I’m always listening to demos. I might hear someone on it and reach out directly to the artist. Other times I work with singers and songwriters to put the songs together and then decide if we want to pitch the completed song to someone else, or just release it as is.
Has your creative process changed a lot over the years?
I think it takes time and growth to get to a point where you are comfortable with your own process, but continuous evolution is somewhat part of the process itself.
What have you been listening to lately?
I’ve been in Trinidad for the last few weeks so a lot of 2019 soca.
You’ll be taking over our terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay. Can you spill some details on what you have cooking up for your set at Art + Soul?
I just want people to dance a lot and have a good time.
What can fans expect from Jillionaire in the near future?
I have a few releases lined up on my label Feel Up Records—we’re mostly working with Caribbean artists over the next few months (Rupee, Bunji Garlin, and Fay Ann Lyons) and have a few international acts on the way as well.