Setting goals help you focus but without intention, there is no direction. You can be moving but are you moving forward or making progress? ArtistMap member Jonny Maven shares why he’s deliberate in everything he does when it comes to music and why building community is essential to growing as an artist.
I once believed happiness in the music industry came from the glory and fame of being a superstar DJ. Today, I believe true happiness actually comes from finding out what value you were meant to share with the world around you. It always boils down to purpose and intent!
It’s not about the destination but the journey
When did you start ArtistMap and how did you first hear about it?
I started ArtistMap pretty much at the beginning of it’s conception. I think I may have been the first student? Before AM even started, Jia and I would always talk about the principles and theories behind the artist journey.
They say it’s not about the destination but the journey. How have you approached your artist journey? Do you consider yourself on the DJ track or both DJ and producer?
I once believed happiness in the music industry came from the glory and fame of being a superstar DJ. Today, I believe true happiness actually comes from finding out what value you were meant to share with the world around you. It always boils down to purpose and intent!
What have been some of the lessons you’ve learned on your own going through the artist journey over the course of time?
Deliberate practice is everything. Don’t fall into a routine of practicing something you are already pretty good at. If it’s painful to get through, you are probably on the right track.
No question about having a love for the game as it’s what has helped you keep going these last 10 years or so, but what’s your ultimate goal as an artist?
COMMUNITY > EVERYTHING .
Never stop bringing value to those around you in your community. That’s the key.
What workflow or process have worked best for you while balancing music and Life (work, family, friends, etc.)?
Time blocking is a crucial workflow. If your art is important enough to you, your schedule should reflect that as many days as possible.
We all have our inner critics, those little voices sometimes aren’t the nicest. How do you stay motivated when you’re not feeling so hot?
You really never know when you will have that a-ha moment, when everything just starts to click. We must show up every day to put ourselves in the position for that lightning to strike. Trusting in the process is my way of keeping a peace of mind.
While comparison is the thief of joy, it’s always nice to look to our peers for inspiration and to help light a fire under our butts. Any artists you’ve been keeping a close pulse on?
Lately, I’ve been digging into harder and faster techno. Even my productions have been dancing between 134-138 BPM. A few artists that I’ve been keeping a close pulse on are JKS, Alignment, Mall Grab, and Blenk.
What excites you the most when it comes to you and music?
There is no greater feeling than being surrounded by people you love, dancing to the same rhythm. This excitement has only grown stronger since I’ve dedicated myself to this journey and the house + techno community.
If you could name one thing, what’s something you’re particularly proud of since starting this journey?
More than anything, I am proud of the work that I’ve put in with 6AM throughout the years in making a positive impact in our community!
Anything else you’d like to share?
I highly recommend digging deeper into the books that are recommended in Artist Map such as the War of Art or The Obstacle is the Way. In order to condition our minds for the trials that lie ahead in our journey, learning how to be stoic is an essential skill to have.
Jonny Maven (born Jonathan Ahn) is a Los Angeles-based artist. Follow Jonny Maven: SoundCloud
