Photo Courtesy of Justin Tempo
Justin Tempo is an emerging DJ and music producer whose journey into music began at an impressively young age. Starting behind the decks at just eight years old, he has spent years honing his craft—evolving from a passionate young DJ into a dynamic artist with a sound that blends energy, emotion, and versatility.
Now stepping further into the spotlight, Justin continues to shape his identity in the electronic music scene through a genre-fluid approach, seamlessly weaving together elements of EDM, drum and bass, pop, and trap. His music reflects not only his technical growth but also his desire to connect with listeners on a deeper, more personal level.
In this exclusive interview, Justin Tempo shares insights into his early beginnings, creative process, and the inspiration behind his sound—offering a closer look at the artist behind the music and what lies ahead in his ever-evolving journey.
Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Justin Tempo, a DJ and producer based in San Francisco, known for my energetic blend of EDM and house music.
When did you first start producing music and DJing?
I began DJing at just eight years old, quickly developing a deep passion for the craft and the connection it creates between music and the audience. Over more than a decade behind the decks, I’ve refined my style through countless hours of practice and live performance.
In 2020, I expanded my creative journey into music production, creating original releases and remixes across multiple platforms. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with talented artists such as DJ38SUN, ASHA, JMAYE, and more.
I’ve also performed at shows across the San Francisco Bay Area as well as in the Philippines, bringing my dynamic sets to diverse crowds and dance floors. With every performance and every release, I continue to evolve as an artist by staying open to new influences while remaining true to the music that moves me.
What inspired you to pursue electronic dance music as your main genre?
What inspired me to pursue EDM was the emotional connection I felt whenever I listened to it. The music has a way of building energy and telling a story that really resonates with me.
One genre in particular, progressive house, has always stood out to me. It is a style I constantly find myself drawn to because of its uplifting melodies, powerful energy, and the way it creates a deep emotional atmosphere.
Who were the artists or producers that influenced your sound the most growing up?
Growing up, one of my favorite artists was Martin Garrix. I was always drawn to the emotions he brings into his music and the way his tracks can make people feel something powerful. His style has been a big inspiration for me, and it helped shape the direction of my own sound. I try to create music that captures a similar emotional energy and connection with listeners.
What was the moment you realized you wanted to take music seriously?
After having a couple of shows in the Philippines recently, where my heritage comes from, I felt a strong and meaningful connection with the people there.
Performing for a crowd that shares my culture made the experience even more special and personal. The energy from the audience and the love they showed for the music reminded me why I started DJing in the first place.
It inspired me to continue sharing my talent with them and to bring the music I love to more people in the Philippines.
As a DJ, being able to connect with a crowd through music is one of the most powerful feelings, and performing there made me realize how important it is for me to stay connected to my roots while doing what I love. I hope to keep returning, performing, and growing my audience there while creating unforgettable moments on the dance floor.
How would you describe your signature sound as a producer?
I would describe my signature sound as music that tells a story and brings out different emotions through a dance track. Whether it is happiness, nostalgia, or even a sense of sadness, I aim to create songs that people can truly feel.
My goal is to combine energy and emotion so that when someone listens or hears it on the dance floor, they are not just dancing, but also connecting with the music on a deeper level.
What usually comes first when you create a track — the melody, beat, or concept?
My priority is questioning how I want my listeners to feel when listening to my track. Do I want it to be a melodic song with a piano or a happy song with a guitar?
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest release “Echoes”?
I created Echoes to bring a nostalgic feeling of remembering how you felt when you were with someone you loved or cared for.
There is a part before the drop where it solos out the guitar and this was a moment where I bring the listeners to a place of looking back.
Many fans enjoy your remixes. What makes a song perfect for a remix in your opinion?
I believe that what makes a perfect remix is when you are able to implement part of the instrumental of the original song into the remix; whether it be the guitar, the drums, or the effects.
How long does it typically take you to finish a track?
Some tracks can take up to a year or a few weeks depending on how I feel about if the track is ready to be released.
Sometimes I would sit on a song, listen to it for weeks, and polish it as much as I can to my liking. There are also times where I would not release a song at all as I don’t feel comfortable pursuing it.
What’s the most memorable DJ set you’ve performed so far?
My recent show in Pasay City, Philippines at the club Aqua Plus where I played a one hour set with the majority being my music.
From meeting the staff and other DJs there, I was very welcomed and felt like I was at home. The crowd was so amazing and I am forever grateful to have met everyone there!
How do you prepare your set before performing at a club or festival?
What I like to do before any set at a club or festival is research what kind of dance music the crowd is into. There are many genres of EDM and house out there and I try my best to cater my set to the community!
What kind of energy do you want people to feel when they hear a Justin Tempo set?
I want to bring people on a journey with my sets. I try to create an opening track to begin with a feeling of welcoming and take them on a journey of happiness, nostalgia, and joy.
Do you prefer performing live or producing music in the studio?
That’s a tough one! But if I had to pick, it would be performing live because DJing is in my roots and that’s how I started my music journey.
What are some challenges independent EDM producers face today?
Depending on where you live, it can be difficult for EDM producers to promote their music in a predominantly hiphop/indie/pop cultured city. I live in San Francisco and the majority of music played here is hip hop or pop.
Ways in which I promote my music in this city is through clubs or bars that cater their music style to EDM or House and I connect with people who are interested in that genre.
Are there any artists or vocalists you would love to collaborate with in the future?
First, I would love to create a song with my idol Martin Garrix. He has taught me what I know about music and I believe with my style of music and his style, we would create an amazing track together. Another would be Justin Bieber. On the go, I would listen to his album “Justice” and I believe he would fit right into my style of bringing an emotional/nostalgic track.
How important are platforms like streaming and social media for independent DJs today?
Streaming and social media for independent DJs today is very important because this is a way for you to show who you are as a person and as an artist.
Outside of music, what are some things that inspire you creatively?
Some of the things that are inspiring me creatively are looking at art. In San Francisco, there is a museum called SF MOMA and sometimes I go there to get inspiration on what kind of music I want to make.
What goals do you hope to achieve in the next few years as an artist?
I hope to release an album in the coming years, and I am currently in the process of making one with a ton of new artists. I can’t wait for you all to listen to it!
Finally, do you have a message for your fans and for readers discovering your music for the first time?
Hello everyone. I am Justin Tempo, a producer and DJ from San Francisco. My goal for each listener listening to music is to have a feeling of connection with my music; whether it be feelings of happiness, nostalgia, or joy! Thank you so much for reading and I hope to meet you all soon!
Stay connected with Justin Tempo and be part of his musical journey
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