Introducing Breakout Artist Surf Mesa
19-year-old electronic DJ/ producer Surf Mesa is quickly becoming one of music’s hottest new talents. The young artist passion for music started when he was in the 4th grade. Making beats from the comfort of his bedroom, Surf Mesa honed his craft and found his signature sound. Currently based in California, his music has steadily been gaining traction within the social media world. His hit record ‘ily (i love you baby)’ with the vocalist Emilee Flood has generated massive success – with the track garnering almost 60 million streams and earning millions of views on TikTok. With a bright future ahead of him, we can’t wait to hear more from the young music persona.
We were able to chat with Surf Mesa about everything from ‘ily (i love you baby)’, his music production journey, his favourite TikTok trend and more. Check out our interview with the DJ/producer below…
Well, first off congrats on your track ‘ily’ (I love you baby) becoming a viral hit! It’s such a fantastic song! Did you expect for it to have such a big reception when you were creating it?
Thank you! I honestly had no idea how big this track would become when I created it, but am so happy to see so many people really vibing with the song. I love that people are connecting with the bright, happy energy during what is a really dark time; I hope it can give people some comfort.
Can fans expect another collab with fellow Tik Tok star Emilee Flood?
Who knows what the future holds, but I’m super grateful for Emilee’s take on the classic, and she is an amazing friend and collaborator.
Let’s take it back a bit, when did you first start experimenting with music production?
My first interaction with music was just smashing keys on my family’s piano as a toddler; I’m so lucky to have a musically inspired family. My dad is a talented saxophone player and would jam out every night for us… I think this musical exposure sort of allowed me to develop a strong connection with instruments from a super young age.
My older brother helped me load FL Studio (a music production software) onto our family computer when I was in the third grade, so I’ve been at this a very long time. I was first trying to re-create the heavy “wub wub” dubstep sounds like Skrillex, but eventually found my way to new inspirations and artists I look up to. I’d say junior year of high school is when I started taking music seriously.
Do you still have the first song you’ve ever created?
hahaha I just looked and actually, I do! Although I’m not sure that song should see the light of day ; )
Your sound has such a dreamy and atmospheric vibe. How would you personally describe your music?
I’m glad people are picking up that vibe….it’s definitely what I’m going for. Honestly, I want my songs to have a heartbeat…I want them to live…whether that’s through creating a warm, vibrant melody, or processing vocals in a refreshing way.
Is there an artist that’s at the top of your “dream collaborations” list?
Oh man, this is a tough question. I would love to work with Chelsea Cutler, I think she’s so talented.
How have you been spending your time in quarantine?
Eating a lot of Taco Bell. Also, I grew up playing video games like WoW and Runescape…so I’ve been getting back into gaming a little bit when I hit a writing roadblock. I’ve been playing Call of Duty with friends but honestly, everyone is so good that I need to get my skills back up. I’ve also been re-arranging my room a ton – I feel like shifting my environment helps me creatively.
And also have been producing so much music; we have so many ID’s right now I’m not sure which one will come next yet.
Which current Tik Tok trend is your guilty pleasure?
Pets. dogs. puppies. and I’m not afraid to admit it.
And lastly, describe the rest of your 2020 music plans in five words or less.
Top of the charts : )
Make sure to check out Surf Mesa new video for his viral track ‘ily (i love you baby)’ ft. Emilee below.
