Today we’d like to introduce you to Johstin Gary.
Johstin, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’ve spent most of my life catching up to others. As an introvert and fairly reserved person, it is hard for me to put myself out there. To overcome these limitations, in 2012, I decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corps and finally break out of my shell. The skills I learned and the experiences I had shaped me into the musician I am today.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
In 2015 I watched a recap video of a festival called “Ultra Music Festival” which is held in Miami. Ever since then, I have made it my mission to become a DJ/producer that inspires others to follow their dreams. In the beginning of my career I started DJing small house parties and have hosted 2 events in the Los Angeles area. I fell in love with the EDM scene and mainly focused on that while djing. After gaining some experience I began working for a promotion company which has allowed me to perform in some of Hollywood’s biggest night clubs.
I began producing once I grew tired of not having original music in 2016. Since EDM was what got me started, I stuck to that for a while and have released 4 songs under the alias “Toterra” (Toe-Terra). My alias means “two worlds” (to=two, terra=earth) and is catered to the fact that as a musician you cannot hold yourself to one genre. After producing EDM for some time I ventured out into producing hip hop beats, pop instrumentals, and r&b instrumentals. I take pride in learning new tips and tricks from different styles.
All of these different styles have attributed to the artist I am today! I am not classically trained nor have I gone to school for music. Instead, I have taken it upon myself to hustle and work for my knowledge. You can find tutorials and information online, you just have to put in the time to look. This method is tedious, but it is free. I want people to know that you should follow your passion no matter what. Life is too short to simply guess what could have been. Many of my peers have quit because of how cold the music industry is, however, I will not give up because it is what I truly want! There are no short cuts in life, everyone has to take the stairs to success.
What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
The role of the artist has changed indeed. Artists can no longer hide from the world or be inconsiderate to their fans. Since fans are the lifeblood of every artist it is crucial to make sure they are taken care of. I do not feel like my craft is affected by local, national, or international issues. If you want something bad enough, you will find a way and that’s just how it is.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I mainly post on my Instagram: @toterraproductions and the only support I look for is engagement! I enjoy a good conversation and if you just happen to listen to my music that’s cool too. My philosophy is: “Make good music and be kind to others, the rest will come later.”
Contact Info:
- Email: toterraproductions@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toterraproductions/
Image Credit:
PC: Spawnzone & Blugraphy
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