An Interview with Veruca
In the ever-evolving world of electronic music, Portland-based producer and DJ Veruca is carving a unique path with his unique sound and genre-defying style. With nearly two decades of experience in music production, his journey began in 2005 with the intuitive tool FL Studio. He is about to release his most ambitious project yet. In this interview, he shares insights into his creative process, inspirations, and plans for the future.
Hey, thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m 36 years old, a producer and DJ based in Portland, OR.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And when did you start?
I started in 2005 with FL Studio. It was the perfect tool to explore my love for music production.
What is your biggest challenge as an artist?
My biggest challenge is finding a consistent sound. I love experimenting with different styles, which can sometimes make it hard to stick to one genre. Another challenge is finishing tracks. That said, I’ve been doing much better this year because I found someone to consistently master my tracks.
What is your favorite project or single you have released?
My favorite track currently is “You Take Me Higher.”
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
I’m inspired by TokiMonsta, Kaytranada, Brutalismus, Joji, Cobrah, SOPHIE, Charli xcx, A.G. Cook, and Anohni. Their work deeply influences my sound and creativity.
What’s the process behind working on a song like?
Typically, I start with the melody and then add the kick. Lately, I’ve been drawn to 128 BPM. For full tracks, I usually write most or all of the lyrics—especially the hook—and then hire or recruit vocalists to perform them. I’m fortunate to have a home studio, which makes the process smoother.
Tell me about your upcoming music and what inspired you to create it!
I have a group of songs with a darker, techno-ish vibe that I’m going to release as an album called DRIVE. Additionally, I have a few high-energy club tracks and softer, more reflective pieces like “You Take Me Higher.” These will be released as singles since they don’t quite fit the album’s mood.
What are your plans for 2024?
I’ve taken a hiatus from DJ’ing to focus on my debut album, collaborate with more artists, and prepare for music releases in Q4 2024 and Q1 2025.
As Veruca continues to shape his musical identity, 2024 promises to be a defining year with the release of his debut album DRIVE and a lineup of distinctive singles. With influences ranging from TokiMonsta to Charli xcx, he blends darker techno vibes with reflective melodies, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Whether through high-energy club anthems or emotive ballads, his music is set to captivate and inspire. Keep an ear out for this rising talent as he embarks on the next phase of his artistic journey.