“Who is Andy Murphy?” I asked. With a smile, he replied, “I’m a music producer and DJ who loves mixing both music and fashion with a fun party streak.” His energy was palpable, and it was clear that his passion for his craft ran deep.
Curious about his journey, I inquired, “What made you get into music?” Andy’s eyes lit up as he recounted his early influences. “I’ve always had a love for electronic music, and while all my friends were obsessed with bands, I was completely taken by Daft Punk. Eventually, my parents gave in to my persistent requests and gifted me a set of turntables for my 18th birthday. After years of DJing, it was only natural to move on and start producing my own tracks.”
When I asked him about his happiest moments, he didn’t hesitate. “Nothing beats that moment when I drop a new track I’ve been working on in the studio and see the crowd’s amazing reaction. That’s when everything pays off—you just can’t wipe the smile off my face.” His enthusiasm was infectious.
“Where in the world would you rather be?” I probed next. Andy laughed softly, admitting, “That’s a hard one… there are so many places I’d love to go that I haven’t been yet. I’m planning a trip to Europe in the middle of the year, but honestly, my favorite place so far has been New York. I’d rather be there right now; it’s such an amazing city.”
The conversation then turned to collaborations. “With so many great musicians emerging, who would you like to work with next?” Andy shared his excitement about the talent in Australia and his admiration for international artists. “We’re so lucky to have a growing talent base here, and collaborations are a fantastic way to learn and expand your fan base. Internationally, I’ve always been a massive fan of Boys Noize, and I’d love the chance to work with him. On the vocal side, Kid Cudi would be an incredible partner, especially as Electronic Dance Music is booming in the US right now. I’m also really excited about my recent collaboration as Jam Xpress with Static Revenger.”
Reflecting on a busy past year, I mentioned, “After a massive 2012—and congratulations on the nuptials, by the way—what highlight would you say stands out apart from your wedding?” Andy grinned. “Last year was incredible. I feel like I broke new ground in the studio, and my release of ‘Everybody Get Up’ with Seany B hit number one on the Aria Club Chart. Touring as Jam Xpress and playing at some of the country’s biggest festivals was an absolute blast. And you should definitely stay tuned for my new release and upcoming tour!”
Curious about his summer soundtrack, I asked, “What are your top tunes for the summer?” Without hesitation, he named his favorite track: “My top pick has got to be ‘Benediction’ by Hot Natured—it’s the ultimate summer anthem, perfect for chilling at the beach. On the Australian front, I’m loving ‘The Way You Are’ by Peking Duck, or, to slip in a bit of self-promotion, my upcoming Jam Xpress vs. Static Revenger feat. Livingstone track, ‘All I Need.’”
When I challenged him with, “If you had to describe the year in music in one big word, what would it be?” he confidently declared, “LOUD!” He went on to explain how music had gotten tougher over the past year but was now turning around with solid vocals and melodies making a comeback.
I was intrigued by his creative process and asked, “What are the five must-haves for creating good music?” Andy listed them thoughtfully: “Creativity is key—you have to push the boundaries and come up with new sounds and ideas. Then there’s practice; you don’t need to get it right the first time, but you need to learn and improve. Patience is essential, too, because countless studio hours are necessary to perfect your sound. A good melody is vital—electronic music sometimes loses that, but great music must have one to stand the test of time. And finally, having a dedicated studio space really helps to get the creative juices flowing. I love my studio, where I’ve collected many vintage synths that provide both sound and inspiration.”
Our conversation soon drifted to fashion. “Last year, you were named one of the Friends of the Festival for the L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival. How was that experience?” Andy’s face brightened as he recounted the event. “It was amazing. Fashion and music go hand in hand. I felt incredibly privileged to be part of the festival—from the photo shoots and filming the TV commercial to performing on opening night and attending the parades. It really fueled my passion for fashion and even inspired my new project, Lights Fashion Music, which explores the intrinsic relationship between fashion and music.”
I couldn’t resist asking, “What would you say are the essential items every bloke should have in his wardrobe this year?” Andy laughed and replied, “Every bloke needs a good jacket—it’s the centerpiece of any outfit. I adore my one-off Ksubi denim jacket with rock star detailing, and I never pass up the chance to dress up with a quality dinner jacket, like my Calibre Smoking jacket. Jewellery, too, can add that extra touch—a simple necklace or a good quality watch can really complete a look.”
Before wrapping up, I gave him the floor with, “Anything you’d like to share? Any websites, links, or charity sites?” Andy grinned and announced, “Stay tuned for my upcoming Jam Xpress single, a collaboration with Static Revenger & Livingstone called ‘All I Need.’ And keep an eye out for my new business venture at lightsfashionmusic.com.”
Our conversation with Andy Murphy left me energized by his infectious enthusiasm and passion for blending music and fashion. His journey, filled with creativity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to innovate, truly embodies the loud spirit of today’s music scene.
