ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: OWNLIFE AND THE JOURNEY OF 'YOU WERE'

With new artists emerging everyday, we see the limits of the industry being shaped and formed in many different and creative ways. We see this in Ownlife, a 19 year old, rising Music Artist and Producer, known for his distinctive blend of synthesised sounds, trap-infused rhythms, resonant basslines, and emotive vocals.

Ownlife’s musical persona is a reflection of himself - bold, unapologetic and unbound by conventions. Born and raised in Perth, he has fostered a musical prowess that extends beyond his years. His musical style is a fusion of various elements, a testament to his versatile taste and creative spirit. Among his signature traits are his affinity for granular synths and innovative processing techniques that infuse his compositions with a sense of uniqueness that is truly his own.

The heart of Ownlife’s artistic expression lies in his latest release, 'You Were'. This evocative song was entirely conceived and produced within the confines of his home studio - a testament to the power of technology and his own skill. 'You Were' is more than just a track; it’s a profound introspection into the act of wholeheartedly dedicating oneself to a purpose and the transformative journey it takes you on.

The songs composition weaves together his characteristic elements, capturing the listeners attention with it’s synthesised layers, trap inspired drum beats and a resonating undercurrent of dark bass. It’s emotive vocals truly add depth to the song's narrative. Ownlife delves into themes of metamorphosis, embracing change, and the intricate dance between dedication and transformation.

Ownlifes musical journal continues to unfold, as he makes his way through the industry. Amongst his creative explorations, Ownlife’s dedication to his craft has led him to several impressive milestones. One of them being July 21st, as he performed at Old Habits’ 'Facsimile' opening. The following day, he took the stage at Badlands Bar, where he supported Koert van der Laan’s 'Liquid Dreams' album launch. The weekend after he continued to shine when he supported LANE's launch of 'Greens' at the Rosemount Four5Nine.

Outside of his commitment to the local scene, Ownlife submitted a creative application on social media to support What So Not on the Perth leg of their tour and won, seizing the opportunity to play alongside influences and in front of an incredible crowd.

How long have you been playing music for? What inspired you to start?
I am fortunate to have been playing music my whole life. The first instrument I learned to play was the piano and it was my parents that encouraged me to start at the age of 4. Playing the piano at that age gave me the foundation I’m so fortunate to have. I then played violin for a couple years, and later played the drums which gave me a huge appreciation for rhythm. I’ve also had guitar and singing lessons.

What is it that draws you to electronic music? 
I think my favourite thing about electronic music and the thing that draws me to it is how beautifully unique it can be, and how powerful it can feel in a live setting. The limit to what you create is truly how long you’re willing to spend exploring. In doing so you can create inexplicably special moments and worlds. 
I remember hearing an 808 in a trap song for the first time in year 6. That was the moment I realised electronic music was something special- I’d never heard anything like it.

Can you tell me a little bit more about the process of your production for 'You Were'?
'You Were' is self produced and mixed and the song was born in January of 2023 during a session in which I was exploring a granular synth called Quanta, which is one of my favourite plugins. Basically what a granular synth does is take little bits or “grains” of audio and repeat’s them really fast, then you choose the position and rate it repeats the audio along with a bunch of other parameters. You can get incredibly unique results with it! Processing audio through this synth laid the foundation for the track. It took another 6 months to finish writing and refining it.

Ownlife stands out as an emerging talent in this industry with his creativity and commendable devotion to his music. With his unique blend of synthesised sounds, trap beats and heartfelt vocals, his track 'You Were', not only encapsulates this but also his own personal growth. As he continues to captivate his audience, Ownlife is undoubtedly an artist to look out for!

Talia Constantine