Amid the draining gloom of the worldwide Covid pandemic, Joel Corry has been a soothing constant: if you have turned on the radio at any time in the past year, there is a huge chance that one of the British pop-house producer’s three big singles will have been playing. “Sorry”, “Lonely” and “Head & Heart” have collectively earned more than a billion streams and made Joel Corry into one of the biggest new dance music stars.
After hitting North America in February, Joel is currently down under for a string of headline shows and OZ EDM were lucky enough to catch up with the dance hit maker to discuss everything from his background and upbringing, to production, upcoming releases and tour life.
Thanks for taking time to speak with us today Joel, how are you today?
I am great thank you! It is so good to be back on tour in Australia and I am loving life down under!
Who were your early influences and what got you into dance music?
I was born and raised in London and my early musical influences were UK Garage and Drum ‘N’ Bass. I started DJing when I was 13 years old, and the UK Garage scene was huge for me growing up. In 2019 I covered a UK Garage classic ‘I’m Sorry’ by Monsta Boy & Denzie with my single ‘Sorry’. My love for House music really kicked off during my first trips to Ibiza. I remember seeing Carl Cox play at Space Ibiza when I was 18 years old and it totally blew my mind.
Since your early days you’ve experienced the world of bodybuilding and reality shows and you’ve since dived deep into music production and DJing. What steered you into the path of electronic dance music?
DJing has always been my main passion in life. My dream was to have hit records, tour the world and make in the music industry. Fitness is also a big part of my life and over the years I have had some amazing experiences in TV that I will always be grateful for. I’m feeling more motivated than ever and I am buzzing for the future!
It’s been a bit of a whirlwind for you these last couple of years. From you massive single “Head & Heart” with MNEK, teaming up with David Guetta and Raye on “BED” and let’s not forget your chart topping hit “I Wish” featuring Mabel. Give us an insight on how things have changed in your world and what’s your experience been like these last two years?
The last few years have been a total rollercoaster and a dream come true! I am lucky to have the opportunity to work with some amazing artists and talent. I have made friendships with people that have been inspirations to me and experienced many surreal moments. I am staying grounded and focussed and ready for more!
You’ve had a smashing run of chart-topping singles, do you have plans for a studio album or EP on the way?
Yes for sure! I have signed a long-term deal with Atlantic Records and I am working towards my album project. I am excited to put together a body of work that represents me as a DJ and artist. Watch this space!
You’ve recently teamed up with Lekota for a new single “What I Need”, tell us a bit about how that track came about?
What I Need is one of my club focussed releases. It is a collaboration with Lekota, who supported me on my UK & Ireland tour. The track samples the dance classic ‘Show Me Love’ by Robin S. It was important to me to release some club records alongside my commercial singles to show people another side to what I do. I am buzzing with the response to these club tracks and it has been awesome playing them out here in Australia.
Two years in now, we are starting to see the world open back up post lockdowns. Festivals are returning, large arena shows are coming back across the globe. What can fans expect when they come to see you perform?
If you come to see me play expect lots of energy, good vibes and unexpected twists. I love playing extended sets and taking a crowd on a proper journey. Longer set times give me the opportunity to show different sides to what I do. Every set I play is important to me and I always want to leave a crowd wanting more!
Finally can you tease us with any upcoming remixes or singles that you may have on the way?
I have been back in the studio with David Guetta working on our new single called ‘What Would You Do?’ featuring the amazing talent Bryson Tiller! This record means so much to me and I hope you guys love it too!
Joel, it’s been a pleasure thanks for the chat and until next time!
Thanks guys, all the best!