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ArtistMap by 6AM Presents: The Struggle Is Real feat. Friz of Soul
From creative blocks to networking challenges we dive in with ArtistMap Members to see how they deal with these struggles.
All artists at every level go through a variety of struggles. Some challenges are easier than others, some harder for others. Artistmap by 6AM Presents: The Struggle Is Real, covers how Artistmap Game Changer members deal with everything that comes with an artist's journey from creative blocks to networking struggles and how they overcome or work on them. These artists come from all walks of life and want to let you know that you are not alone and that "the struggle is real". This installment features Friz of Soul.
Friz of Soul, a Los Angeles techno powerhouse, stands as a paragon of innovation that transcends the conventional boundaries of the genre. This enigmatic artist's ascension in the techno scene is marked by a relentless pursuit of sonic exploration. On his journey thus far, Friz of Soul has premiered and released music on acclaimed techno labels ranging from HATE, 6AM Group, MOTZ Berlin, OBSCUUR, and Techno Wereld. His dynamic performances at renowned clubs and festivals include Lehmann Club in Germany, RE/FORM Festival, Avalon Hollywood, The Globe Theatre, Exchange LA, and other sold-out clubs and warehouses. In addition to these esteemed performances, Friz of Soul embarked on the Wide Awake tour throughout the United States.
Friz of Soul's discography reflects a commitment to pushing boundaries and a dedication to the craft that resonates with fans and critics alike. The name, Friz of Soul, signifies the belief that the essence of human creativity stems from the soul and an embrace of authenticity in the modern world. His music serves as a vessel for conveying the dualistic nature of consciousness and technology. With a style shaped by industrial basslines, powerful grooves, and transcendental melodies, Friz of Soul's music showcases his unique talent for balancing contrasts—melding darkness with light, brutality with beauty, and creating a dynamic experience that reflects the complexity of human emotions. Friz of Soul continues to rise in the techno realm and pioneer his signature sound through his forthcoming releases.
Artistmap by 6AM asks Friz of Soul to share his story and how he deals with a variety of necessary challenges for the artist journey.
How Do You Overcome Creative Blocks?
I let go and don't take things so seriously. I get in the studio and create whatever I'm feeling without any expectation or care what comes of it. I don't think about it, I just start finding sounds, pressing keys and eventually I find something that inspires me. Doing this again and again has led me to creating some of my favorite work.
How Are You Finding Your Voice as an Artist?
Repetition. Continuing to create what drives me and makes me feel. I pay attention to what I find inspiring, then I recreate that through my productions. It's really important to create so much art to find your voice. Once I create a lot of new work, I share it with the world and see what the community connects with. This is where I find the intersection of what inspires me, and what inspires others, which is my voice and where I'm able to add value to the world.
How Do You Work Towards Self Promotion?
I connect with as many people as I can. Peers, artists, labels, promoters, fans, anyone who may connect with my music. I reach out to these people on a daily basis, even if it's cold outreach. I also have a rigorous schedule and structure for myself. For example, I do 30 day challenges. Last year I challenged myself to email a new label every day for 30 days in a row. This led to four label premieres on my top 10 goal labels. I'm doing another challenge right now where I'm sending my unreleased track downloads to artist peers for 15 minutes a day. So far, this has led to my music being played in countries such as France, England, Iran, Austria, and more.
Connecting with people no matter how you're doing it is really important for promotion. I invite whoever I can to my events when I'm booked for a new show regardless of what city it's in. I send peers my new music when I make it. I like to think about promotion as a real human-to-human connection. There are artists that want new music to play, people that want events to go to, and fans looking for new music and forms of entertainment. I share what I put out consistently, and over time these interactions have built a ton of organic relationships.
How Do You Network With Others?
The best way to network is by saying hello. Be the first person to say hi whether it's on the internet or in person. Some life long friends and collaborators have come from me tapping someone on the shoulder backstage and saying "that's a dope photo", or by messaging someone on Instagram and letting them know I think their art is amazing. I genuinely care about human connection, and I've naturally met a lot of people over time because of this. Most people are too afraid to say the first hello whether they want to admit it or not, so if you can master the skill of saying hi and breaking that ice you'll become a master networker.
