Producer Profile Interview: Sun Sun
by Ebonie Smith
Posted on September 22, 2013
Photos by Siddiqui
This profile is dedicated to introducing our readers to Sun Sun. She is a Toronto-based music producer who crafts beats for the band Abstract Random. Abstract Random is a rap electro dub hop mashup trio whose music is infused with feminist politics. Their shows are a multimedia spectacle including visual projections, face paint and costumes. Something different. Sun Sun agreed to answer a few questions about her production work for the Gender Amplified blog. Check it out!
What first sparked your interest in music production?
I’ve always been really into music and often find myself surrounded by musicians. When I lived in NYC (years ago) is when it became clear that I wanted to be part of a musical movement. I guess it wasn’t until I got a computer that I had access to play around with production.
Describe the style of music you create.
I’m in/produce for a band called Abstract Random and we call our music “Electro Dub Hop”. I guess it’s hip hop, dub, trap, experimental mash up, something you can bob your head to and dance. I think I like weird sounds and heavy bass. It’s different and it’s always changing.
Tell us a little about the first track you ever produced.
The first track I produced was a recording I made from a little kid’s piano I found in the trash. I wish I still had that cassette tape. This was pre-computer. When I got a computer, Garageband was my best friend.
What types of gear and software do you use to produce?
I use a Sp-404 and Reason 5 to do my production. I got some random keyboards, effects peddles, a guitar, bass and a kalimba. I’m thinking about getting into drumming too. It’s calling me.
Where are some of your favorite places to find and buy gear?
I don’t think I have found that spot yet. But here in Toronto I go to Long and Mcquade. They are pretty good, not too expensive. They will exchange anything. They let you rent gear freely for cheap, so there is room to try things out before buying.
Describe the movement you’re developing with Abstract Random?
Abstract Random is what it is, very different. It’s often questioned of which box do we fall in. It’s a combination of many things. We call it Elecro Dub Hop – electronic, dub and hip hop. It’s 3 of us, Jamilah Malika, Ayo Leilani and me (Sun Sun). We started in 2009. We paint our faces and wear costumes with paper mache masks. We have played so many shows/festivals. We are part of a hype music DIY collective in T.O: 88 Days Of Fortune. We have toured Europe and opened for Shabazz Palaces and THEESatisfaction. We have a bunch of albums, many music videos…and it’s all DIY. Our first album was called Dis Rupt Dis Reality, and that’s what we aim to do. We write about things that we care about on heavy beats. www.abstractrandom3.com
What are your ultimate goals for your career as a music producer?
I guess to keep growing and to make crazier beats. To keep on collaborating with cool innovative artists.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in music production? What is one piece of advice he/she should know?
Keep at it. Find a program/software that works for you. Youtube is your best friend. When I teach myself how to use gear/programs, I refer to Youtube to find any answers I need when I feel stuck.
Tell us where to find your music online.
abstract random: abstractrandom.
abstract Random website: abstractrandom3.
Sun Sun Dj/beats: loversun.bandcamp.com
Sun Sun beats: soundcloud.com/
88 Days Of Fortune: 88days.bandcamp.com
my art page: www.francescanocerasun.
