TFword in Conversation With Paul Mayson
We had a chat with the eclectic Dutch producer about his debut album, his creative process, his influences, his plans for the rest of the year, and lots more.
We had a chat with the eclectic Dutch producer about his debut album, his creative process, his influences, his plans for the rest of the year, and lots more.
Be it emotional, physical, or mental, music has long been an outlet to stimulate release; and as the art of making music gets more technical than ever, the evocative quality has been gradually disappearing. Thankfully, we have producers like Paul Mayson who are keeping the art alive with their ability to mesmerize us through their genre-bending sounds.
Exuding both happy and poignant emotions, the Dutch Producer, DJ and songwriter is at the forefront of delivering timeless, nostalgic and liberating music. After touring internationally as a DJ early on, Paul got his start producing and remixing songs, which eventually led to him making reworks for prominent names like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Far East Movement, Yelawolf and Mariah Carey.
Having signed a major record deal with Sony Music in 2021 and being picked by MTV as their breakthrough artist in Europe, Paul Mayson’s penchant for house music and sampling has culminated into his debut album called ‘One Life.’
Featuring a series of delightful collaborations and solo material in equal measure, Paul Mayson has given us one of the top dance music albums of the year. Following the release, we couldn’t have missed the chance to have a chat with him about the album, and this is what he had to say:
TFword: Congratulations on the release of your stunning debut album. What is the feeling like?
Paul Mayson: Thanks a lot! It’s great! It’s something I’ve wanted to do all my career, a way to solidify what I stand for: my sound, my story. Really grateful to now share this with the world.
TF: When did you begin working on ‘One Life’?
Paul Mayson: Two years ago I started to release more singles and as things progressed the concept of the album started to develop. It’s been a gradual process since then, writing and producing all the music.
TF: The combination of uplifting and somber soundscapes really highlights the album’s title. What was the thought process like while writing the album?
Paul Mayson: The album celebrates life, freedom and diversity, enriched by the sounds and colors of the genres that shaped my childhood. There were no rules for me, it was about celebrating life and creating freely! Embracing things as they come.
TF: There are so many incredible collaborations on ‘One Life.’ Talk us through the experience of working with such a diverse group of artists.
Paul Mayson: I like to be inspired by artists from different genres with a different perspective and heritage. That’s what really makes it exciting for me. What challenges me and what makes me think. When I hear certain sounds and vocals I get inspired and get ideas of fusing that with my world. It’s been a really interesting and eclectic journey.
TF: Who were your biggest influences when you started making music?
Paul Mayson: A lot of the 80s house records, as well as artists like Jamiroquai, Prince, but also Justin Timberlake for example!
TF: Take us back to the time when you made your debut release. How has the journey been for you so far?
Paul Mayson: It’s been an incredible ride so far. Many days and nights in the studio, traveling the world, shaping my sound and collaborating with some really great people. I think the joy of creating something from scratch and the excitement of that will never fade.
TF: Who would you regard as your dream collaboration?
Paul Mayson: I would say Pharrell, Justin Timberlake, Jamiroquai.
TF: How is the rest of the year looking like for Paul Mayson?
Paul Mayson: Very excited to share the album, start writing new music, and also announce new shows! 🙂
