Mary Droppinz

IO:

As the Queen of Bass, we have to know: What's your approach to writing basslines?

Alyssa:

I like to write basslines last. I love building my drums and vocals first and then feel out what direction I would like to go in. I even use dance moves and my voice to feel out the space where the bassline should be. It’s more about movement for me than anything.

From there it goes into the sound design space with either Serum or Operator or finding samples that fit the vibe.

I ask myself how I want this bassline to move, and either by creating it out of dance moves or with my voice then I know what direction I would like to go in. From there it goes into the sound design space within serum or operator or finding samples that fit the tone. I love the call and response method alternating between a longer note and shorter ones etc. Keeping the bass simple but groovy is my goal as drums to me are the best part of any track ;)

IO:

We're obsessed with your track “Pop”, and how it has such distinct vocal energy. What sparked the idea for the vocals and how did that element evolve as the track came together?

Alyssa:

'Pop' was originally about telepathy and the demo actually has more lyrics to it but I ended up only using a few bits of the original which took the track into a whole new direction. The cuts I used in the final track are about making you feel the bass go pop pop pop in your hips and bringing the finger guns out.

IO:

Looking back at your time at IO Music Academy, was there a specific moment, class, or breakthrough that influenced your confidence and journey as an artist?

Alyssa:

The one on one sessions with my instructor were super impactful for me.

I really enjoyed getting to share my first creations live in class and receiving feedback. It was freeing to be able to share even if it wasn’t that good but having that safe/comfortable class environment was everything for me to build confidence as a producer.

IO:

As a female artist in electronic music moments that have influenced how you navigate the industry today?

Moments that have shaped how I navigate the industry were honestly connecting more and building deep friendships with other women in the music industry.

The more we come together the more we rise, experiencing it first hand and it’s beautiful to be a part of!

IO:

Any challenges?

Alyssa:

The challenge I have experienced (and almost every female artist I know has) is online haters that create false narratives and claims about you and your art (classic examples: ghost produced, pre recorded, not live mixing, etc.)

When you realize it unfortunately comes with the territory when sharing your art, especially online, you can release yourself from taking it to heart.