Behind the Journey: WLDFLOW3R

I first discovered WLDFLOW3R after having a chat with NAWS about up and coming artists. They said there is a producer/singer songwriter based in Kentucky, USA who is one to watch out for in the deep and melodic house scene.

After speaking to her and listening to her music I was stoked that she agreed to do this interview, but then after reading her answers I quickly realised how much we can all learn from her. She makes music, raises a family, studies and works all at the same time!

Keep reading to see how she does it...

Socials: @wldflow3r

Let's get started, can you tell us where are you in the world right now and what projects are you currently working on?

I currently live on 5 acres of wooded forest in the heart of rural Kentucky where I have a little studio cabin where I make my music. I just finished up a year of online school, where I collaborated and made one song a week for 9 months. Now I am focusing on my own projects, as well as a few collaborations with friends I have made along the way.

What motivates you to keep making music?

I’ve always been a creative and found various outlets to express myself, but music is the closest to my heart. I played piano from a young age, and started vocal lessons as a teenager. I ended up playing music in church for quite awhile before taking the leap into production. I believe creative expression is imperative for all artists (in my case, production and songwriting) and also acts as a therapy to process out complex emotions.

Also, music discovery has always been a motivating factor for me. Anytime I hear something new and beautiful, whether a vocal, or melody, or unique sound design on a bass line... I get a hit of dopamine. Music truly is my safe place. My space to be myself and explore endless possibilities. 

Check out her latest release 'Dive In Deep':

"I currently live on 5 acres of wooded forest in the heart of rural Kentucky where I make music in a little studio cabin"

What’s been your biggest challenge so far within music?

Well, right now only 3% of music producers are female, and in addition to that, my age. I am 41 with a family, so I’m not quite the stereotypical music producer or artist. I also don’t have a very big audience right now and it's quite a challenge to grow.

How did you tackle this challenge?

I think mindset helps a lot, I believe that music is what I was created for so I don’t want to let those things stop me or make me feel insecure. Also remembering that there is room for all of us at the table. No one else has my voice, or my creative vision. I belong, and so do you.

With regards to growing an audience, rather than taking shortcuts or buying into the idea I need instant success, I want to focus on being disciplined, and to continue learning and honing my craft, and most importantly, keeping my work authentic to who I am. 

Have a listen to 'In The Air' released in 2023:

"Only 3% of music producers are female, and I'm also 41 with a family so I’m not quite the stereotypical music producer"

How do you balance pursuing music alongside your other responsibilities and interests?

This has proven so difficult, but I did just graduate two separate schools, one being Laamp, and the other being ICON Collective, where I was also awarded student of the year. If I can make time for music, while raising kids and working two jobs, anyone can can do it! But more specifically, I have to carve out little moments here and there, and make sure I prioritize music when that creative flow state hits. I'm often listening to collab tracks on the way to work, recording voice memos in my car, or playing around with serum when I can’t sleep in the middle of the night. 

Is there anyone who inspires you or has helped you out on this journey?

My husband has certainly given me space to chase this dream, and I am eternally grateful to him. Also a handful of church leaders and my school director who encouraged me when I felt like throwing in the towel. But more than anyone, the artists that I listen to daily whose music takes my breath away. Their music is the reason I keep going. They took their journey and created something that moved me and impacted my life, and I want to carry that same torch. 

 And finally, to finish off - what song you have been listening to most recently?

'Dark In This Room' by CRi is one that has been on repeat lately. 

Three takeaway tips:

• Remember nobody else has your own unique sound, voice, or vision: it may take a while to find and refine these elements, but they are unique to you and reminding yourself of this can help you when it feels like there is so much competition out there. The task is often how do you get your unique qualities across in a way that connects with an audience.

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• Ages doesn't matter: WLDFLOW3R is 41, I'm 32, and Pete Tong is 63. Just do you and keep making music.

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• Don't underestimate the power of 'little and often': if you have other responsibilities (like work, studies or childcare), try carving out small periods of time to pursue music. Planning and prioritizing your time can help you do this (I personally use Google Calendar and Trello).

Insta links:

WLDFLOW3R, NAWS, Priiormusic, Pete Tong

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I'll send you my unreleased music + a few cool extras :)