We’re often inspired by Millennials’ drive and ambition to achieve their goals. Many young people today are pursuing multiple paths simultaneously so they can reach their ultimate objective. There’s no formula or path one must take to make their dreams reality, which is why young people are hustling and balancing several responsibilities to make things happen. This is the case for Joe Pincus, known by his stage name as Aire Atlantica, a full-time college student and aspiring DJ, who embodies the Gen Y can-do attitude. Millennial contributor Phil chatted with Joe about this balancing act and how it’s reflective of young people today.
Q&A With Aire Atlantica On Millennials Making It In The Music Industry, Balancing Several Responsibilities, And More
Phil Savarese: How did you get into DJing?
Joe Pincus: I got into DJing/music production about two years ago once I entered college. I’ve always been a fan of the nightlife/club scene, but this gave me a good entry point. My dad introduced me to the drums when I was three or four years old, so music is definitely in my blood. I played in countless bands throughout high school and in college, and then electronic music took over. I’ve always been very open to all styles and genres of music, so making EDM my priority was not a big change since I was very familiar with it for years.
PS: Where do you see yourself in the future? Do you take your life as a musician more seriously than your life as a student, or do you think that they complement each other?
JP: That’s a great question because I’m right smack in the middle of my four years at college, which is typically when students decide what they want to do with their career and the rest of their lives. My goal is to always be producing, writing, and playing music for the rest of my life, no questions asked. I can’t see myself doing anything else, or even in any other industry because music is truly my passion. I try to balance being a musician and a student, but it’s super difficult to do both. Sometimes I’ll be at a peak in terms of writing a song, and class or school work gets in the way, and that really sets me off because I begin wondering “does this class even matter?”, which is obviously no good when it comes to grades. But in ways I do think that school has provided me with connections and opportunities that have complimented my aspirations in music too.
PS: What do you think is the most difficult part of making it in the music business today? How are you trying to stand out amongst all the other young aspiring DJs out there?
JP: The most difficult part of making it in the industry is showing people WHY you’re different. There’s a lot of other people trying to do exactly what you’re doing in music or related industries. You always have to be on your toes thinking of new ideas and promoting yourself to gain a new audience. I try to stay different by incorporating different things that people enjoy into one full “package.” Most notably this is through blurring genre boundaries in music, but also in other subliminal ways people may not directly notice.
PS: Can you talk a little bit more about Kodiak Records, the company that you’re signed with, which was created by another student? How did it get started and how is it working with such a small, young company?
JP: Kodiak Records was created by a good friend of mine, Pete, who is a college student and also my manager. He wanted to create a hardworking and fresh record label with diverse releases. He also opened a management firm, which expands the popularity and exposure of artists. He’s been doing a great job with both, and I’m signed for my next Kodiak release in the fall, which will be a single.
I love working with an up and coming company because it is very hands on and accessible which makes everything very comfortable. I look forward to working with Kodiak for a long time.
PS: It seems that you and your friend Pete are doing so much — starting a business, writing, producing, and performing music — all while being enrolled as full-time students.
You both prove that Millennials have the ability to chase their dreams and succeed. If you could give one piece of advice to other students trying to accomplish their dreams, what would you tell them?
JP: I’d let them know that balancing school work and music — like I said — is tough, but both have to get done and therefore, you will make it happen. In terms of following your dreams, don’t let the negative opinion of anyone else get in your way from trying something new or something you’ve always wanted to do. I’ve been chasing a musical dream for years now and every second of effort pays off when you start meeting goals. Work hard, play hard!
Phil Savarese
Phil is a senior marketing student at St. Johns University in New York. He is your typical college student, interested in music, movies, and video games. When he’s not buried under textbooks, he’s probably playing his guitar, on Xbox, or out with friends. His goal is to eventually work in the music industry, helping promote the music that he loves.
