Check out our interview with Grammy & ASCAP Award-Winning Producer & DJ Damon Sharpe.
Damon recently released his debut record as an Armada Records signed artist titled “Lost Years” featuring Josh Cumbee. The long-awaited track followed his top charting singles like “Fire & Gold”“ When In Rome” and most recently “Under Your Control” to name a few, out via Armanda Records.
Aside from producing music, Damon’s kept busy on the virtual performance side, recently teaming up with DJ/Producer DVRKO on a 1-hour “Back To The Future” special DJ set that featured booming beats and nostalgic treats, which followed close after his last live set from the Brainjack Arcade.
Damon also has his hand in his monthly podcast show, “Damon Sharpe presents Brainjack”, available via Insomniac Radio and all other streaming platforms.
Follow Damon @DamonSharpe
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Driven, positive, balanced
We’re sure you have been asked this a million times, but how did you get into the industry?
I actually started as a street dancer, believe it or not. That sparked my love for music. I’ve worn many hats, such as an actor, dancer, artist, producer, songwriter, and even manager, to get to this place in my career.
Tell us about your debut record with Armada Records, “Lost Years?”
I’ve actually been working with Armada for many years now as a producer and songwriter, and when I started pursuing my DJ and artist career, they were the perfect fit for me. Lost Years is a collaboration with the amazing Josh Cumbee. We ironically wrote this song before Covid, but it really fits the narrative of making up for the lost time once this pandemic comes to an end. But there is a duality to it, which ties into relationships, life, and even my career. I put my own artist career on the back burner, and I am now making up for lost years in this new chapter!
Now tell us about your hit singles “Fire & Gold,” “When In Rome,” and “Under Your Control?”
Fire & Gold is a collaboration with Morgan Page, Vivid, and Alle, all of whom I have collaborated with on other records. It was a top 10 dance radio single and really got a lot of love. When In Rome is now over 35M streams and also was a top 10 dance radio single. Working with the incredible Gattuso was a blast. Under Your Control is a collaboration with awesome Aussie Dave Winnel and the vocal powerhouse Shannon (aka Rani), who I also worked with on the Sunnery James and Ryan Marciano single “Life After You.”
Which artists and styles inspired and influenced you?
I have so many crazy influences all the way from Daft Punk and Eric Prydz to Michael Jackson and Prince to Depeche Mode and Drake. My brain is like a jukebox.
Now tell us about your experience working with big names in the industry like Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, Pitbull, and Alesso?
I’ve been blessed to work with so many A-listers in this business, and my resume keeps expanding. It’s really mind-blowing to have these opportunities.
Tell us about your podcast/radio show “Damon Sharpe presents Brainjack?”
Episode 10 premiered on March 10 on Insomniac radio. Legendary trance DJ Orjan Nilsen whom I have collaborated with in the past, is my guest DJ for that episode. Every week I feature new music that I’m loving and tease pre-releases in the world of dance music.
When did you decide to create your own show?
About a year ago. I always loved listening to radio shows and podcasts to discover new music. I wanted to create a destination not only for new music but to create a sense of community. That is the world of Brainjack.
How often do you release new content?
Social media, constantly. Music, as often as possible! But usually every few months. I’m doing a lot more remixes for other artists as well.
The funniest thing that ever happened to you at an event?
Probably falling off the side of the stage when exiting with a confident walk, lol.
Did you have plans/gigs planned and canceled because of COVID? If so, have you done any online events or interactions with your fans?
Unfortunately, I had a ton of gigs canceled when covid hit. I’ve been doing some really cool-themed live streams you can check out on YouTube or my official website, but I am really excited to start playing in person soon!
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
As cliche as it sounds, I love that music allows me to reach people and change their lives. When I get a DM or meet a fan who has a personal story about how one of my songs has impacted their life somehow, it makes all the hard work worth it!
What’s next for Damon Sharpe in 2021?
Tons more releases! Upcoming collabs with Loud Luxury, CID, VIVID, and others! More Brainjack Radio and live shows!
What book should every entrepreneur read?
I am a fan of All You Need To Know About The Music Business and 48 Laws Of Power.
The best advice ever given?
What’s on their plate, let them have it. There will come a time when they will want what’s on yours. This really resonates now more than ever in the world of social media. It’s easy to see what other people are posting and be envious or feel like you aren’t doing enough. But remember, that’s all a controlled narrative.
Name one of your strengths?
Self-confidence and self deprecation. I know that’s 2, but they go hand in hand.
After working, how do you like to chill out?
Movies, traveling, dining out, lazy Sundays.
Your idea of a perfect Sunday?
If I am in town, I love to make Sunday a relaxing day spent with my loved ones. Really disconnect from work and enjoy life.
What is your own definition of happiness?
A balance between work and play. Music, family, friends.
Do you support any charities?
I am actively involved with The Red Songbird Foundation. My honorary sister Hilary Roberts founded it, and it helps people who are dealing with addiction and trauma.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Sushi.
And your favorite cheat food?
Pizza or Indian food.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Stephen Hawking. I would love to pick his brain and talk about all sorts of random topics.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Continuing this amazing journey! More music! Shows! Maybe my own label?
How would you describe your fashion style?
Eclectic. I love to rock a patterned suit when dressing up but will also wear a retro leather jacket and some jeans.
Where can we follow you?
Pretty much @damonsharpe on most platforms: Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and TikTok on Facebook it’s officialdamonsharpe. Spotify, it’s Damon Sharpe.
My radio show airs on Insomniac Radio the second Friday of every month then, you can find it on Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts, Mixcloud, and 1001 Tracklists.
Favorite…
Quote: With every no, you are that much closer to a yes.
Movie: Star Wars
Travel Destination: Playa Del Carmen
Sports Team: Used to be the Phoenix Suns when I lived in Phoenix.
Photo Credit: Matt Doheny
