After originally breaking through with her vibrant initial offerings 'ALL I WANNA' and 'Say Goodbye' in recent years, New York-based producer and DJ HAI-LIFE recently returned to the fold with her stunning comeback effort 'Call Me Baby'.
Capturing more of that fresh and energetic electronic aesthetic she is known for, 'Call Me Baby' makes for a brilliantly fun and lively return for the artist. With its bright and bouncing flow and killer hooks layered throughout, she is continuing to shine as one of the more progressive names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My mom introduced me to piano at a young age. It was one of the things she taught me before she passed away from cancer when I was 6, so it’s definitely an instrument that holds a lot of meaning for me.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I’m from the south (specifically Georgia), and I listened to the radio a lot when I was younger, so that means a lot of rap and R&B growing up (Ciara, Akon, Lil Wayne, Missy Elliot, 50 Cent). I didn’t discover electronic music until I was in high school, and got into it in college.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Not sure if this is the first album I owned, but I remember playing Hilary Duff’s Metamorphosis album on repeat when I was younger, lol. If you know, you know that the album really slapped back then.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I wish I had written House Every Weekend by David Zowie. It’s such a timeless house anthem and always gets the dancefloor going, no matter where I play it. I am especially obsessed with the bassline and the vocals.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
There are two things that work for me. The first is consistency. I work on music 5 days a week, even if it’s just for 1-2 hours a day. Sometimes, I work for longer (4-5 hours). The point is I’m really committed to carving out a part of my day, everyday, to hone my craft and improve as a music producer. I’ve found that whatever you focus your attention on grows, and ultimately thrives. The second thing is I’ve learned over the years that I’m a morning person. It’s the time of the day when I have the most energy and my brain feels the sharpest. Because I have that knowledge now (through experimenting and experience), I structure my days accordingly, which means I always work on music in the early mornings.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Ewan McVicar (Groove Thang), Joy Anonymous (Head to the Sky), and myself (Call Me Baby + ALL I WANNA).
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Peggy Gou, Honey Dijon, Chris Lake.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Creating art that I believe in. So much so that I’m willing to invest my resources (time, money, energy) into bringing that song to life. And, seeing others also connect with the music brings me so much joy.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Breaking into the music industry while still maintaining my authenticity and integrity. Operating in an industry that’s dominated by white men, and white people in general.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Everyone’s path is different. Everyone’s path to success is different. I’ve studied a lot of music producers and musicians, and everyone has a different story, and that’s a beautiful thing. So don’t be afraid to forge your own path. What works for them might not work for you and vice versa.
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HAI-LIFE's new single 'Call Me Baby' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.