Chicago-based artist Sherm has never stopped his relentless pursuit to create and influence since his start in 2014. His artistry and passion has given him global recognition for his accomplishments in the music industry as a DJ, Producer, A&R and Podcast Host. Sherm’s undeniable ability to entertain is what sets him apart. He has a 360 degree skillset including performing in front of thousands at festivals, producing memorable dance music, hosting live podcasts, signing chart-topping tracks, and moderating engaging panels. Check out the exclusive Interview below:
1. Your roots can often shape your journey. Can you share a story or moment from your early life that had a significant impact on your path into music?
SHERM: Ever since I was a little kid, I always loved entertaining my family. My grandma would put on “Mambo No. 5” and I would sing along and dance with her. My grandpa also knew the words to so many songs from musicals and we would watch them together. This connection with them through music and dance has stuck with me ever since. One of the greatest joys in life for me is playing music for people and enjoying it with them. Music is for everyone to enjoy together.
2. Did your musical journey begin with formal training, or was it more of a personal exploration? How has that shaped your unique approach to your craft?
SHERM: The only instrument I’ve ever played was the french horn (and that’s because they ran out of saxophones!). I grew up in the “pass the aux” generation and constantly listened to music with my friends. We loved finding new artists and running through all their music. It created a deep appreciation on the actual creation of music hearing different genres in my teen years. Nowadays, I find inspiration listening to music outside of the dance music world!
3. Who were some of the most influential figures in your early musical life, and how did they inspire your sound? Also, what’s the story behind choosing the name ‘SHERM’?
SHERM: I first heard “Warp 1.9” by Steve Aoki and Bloody Beetroots at a high school party in like 2010… blew my mind. I found myself exploring genres in dance immediately and loved Deadmau5. His track “Brazil” was a massive influence on what my sound would become. Both of these songs also played a role in my live DJ sets. Filled with moments of emotion – all types of emotion. “Sherm” is my nickname that people have been calling me since I was 10! My last name is Sherman.
4. What do you believe sets your music apart? How would you describe your sound to someone discovering you for the first time, and what emotions or experiences do you hope to evoke in your listeners?
SHERM: My music is truly me! What I create is what I intend to play. I am a strong believer in the “oxygen mask” motto – you have to take care, or do things, for yourself before you can help others. My music is for me first because I love to make what makes me happy. My sound is modern but also nostalgic. It is guaranteed to make you move and definitely smile.
5. For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you? How would you describe your own development as an artist and music maker, and the transition towards your own style, which is known as EDM?
SHERM: Absolutely – the saying “nothing is original” is very true especially for DJs and producers. I am a big fan of open-format DJ’s that blend tons of genres like Diplo. The actual journey he takes people on is next level and I still try to emulate that style in my own way today. I’m constantly trying to raise the bar with my sets by never settling for what I’ve already accomplished. I lean into my successes but focus on what I could do better even more.
6. Music often transcends entertainment. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?
SHERM: I think it depends on how the artist wants to express themselves. The opposite of depression for artists is not joy… it’s expression. I express myself through music in a way that I can’t do with just words. That is why I love it so much – it is all of me and then some!
7. Do you feel the rewards of your musical career match the energy and passion you invest in it, or are there different kinds of fulfillment you’re still seeking?
SHERM: You have to find a line to reach every day when it comes to fulfillment. It comes in many shapes and sizes for me. I think a lot of artists get caught up in thinking about success as a level which is partly true.. But feeling fulfilled means that you worked to make something happen that you can be proud of. I already feel fulfilled with what I’ve accomplished and if today was my last day as an artist I’d be proud of what I’ve done. However, I still have so much more that I’m working towards!
8. Can you walk us through your creative process? From the first spark of an idea to the finished track, what’s the most essential part of your process, and how do collaboration or external influences shape your work?
SHERM: Inspiration comes out of nowhere for me when it comes to music. One of the most essential parts of the process for me is knowing where this track needs to end up. Since I started a DJ, I can’t help but think about how will this perform live. What does it need to stand out in a world of so many amazing tracks. It’s hard to describe but I just know what needs to happen. It’s part of the reason I love collaborating – I’ve leaned into the fact that I’m able to finish tracks much better than starting them.
9. What’s been the most challenging hurdle in either your personal life or music career, and how has it shaped you as an artist?
SHERM: Trying to continue pursuing music after the passing of my dad last June was a very difficult time. He was my biggest fan and came to every show he could, listened to every podcast, showed everyone he knows my music and always reminded me to keep going. I knew that even in his death, I owed it to him to see what this could become. He was the hardest working person I’ve ever known and my determination to make an impact comes through his teachings every day.
10. On the flip side, what moment or achievement in your career so far has made you feel the proudest, and why? And let’s talk about your latest release and future plans.
SHERM: Recently playing the main stage at North Coast is a major highlight. It was my 5th North Coast and the biggest stage I’ve ever played on. I’ve worked so hard for years to finally achieve that level and it felt so good. I was super locked in and played an amazing set that people loved. I have 4 release still coming this year… 2 remixes and two originals. You’ll have to stay tuned but I can tell you “96 BullZ” with Rich DietZ is the most energetic track I’ve ever been a part of. It’s NBA season baby!!
11. With social media having a heavy impact on our lives and the music business in general, how do you handle criticism, haters, and/or naysayers in general? Is it something you pay attention to, or simply ignore?
SHERM: I don’t worry too much about the haters. In fact, once you have haters that is how you know things are going well.
12. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?
SHERM: Live audience without a doubt. I thrive off people in person. Extrovert to the max!
13. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?
SHERM: All I ask for people to understand is that my greatest intention is to create art that can seamlessly bring you closer to others and yourself. Interpret however you want to!
KEEP IN TOUCH:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | SPOTIFY | TIKTOK | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE
