We all have our little addictions—the things we keep coming back to. I have mine too, but of course, I won’t reveal what here. For Australian DJ/producer Lemonade Baby, it’s making music. “I definitely ‘give up’ from time to time, but I can’t escape the grip it has over me.” That deep connection has fueled his debut album, Stars Stars Stars—a record filled with both nostalgia and positive energy. In our chat, we explore the creative process, the most personal moments on the album, and what drives him forward.
photography by Brannon Hughes
We’ve already spoken in 2023, and in the meantime, you released your debut album Stars Stars Stars, which you worked on for two years. Congratulations! How did you spend the day it finally came out?
I slept in. Updated the gram, went for a coffee… I like to make release days as mundane as possible.
I’m listening to your album right now while putting this interview together, and I absolutely love it. It has such a positive, uplifting vibe—just the kind of music everyone needs. Do you feel the same way, or how would you describe it?
Yeah, I do feel the same way! I’ve been very inspired by the era of the 2000s for the record, so uplifting and nostalgic was what I was going for.
Which song on the album feels the most personal to you, and why?
There are two songs that come to mind…
Yeah Yeah Yeah (Lifestyle) gets me in the feels during the chorus as I dance the melancholy away.
And Afterthought with my friends Brigette (Monets Pond) and Tom (TJTM). I can’t explain it, but it just feels so good when I’m hearing my friends sing. Yeah, it’s a moody song for me.
“Feedback is important, but there comes a point where I have to stop listening and trust myself.”
“Slaaay” is one of my favorites. I love its deep vibe, and I can imagine listening to it on a road trip, just living in the moment. What’s the story behind this track?
I was flipping through these 90s sample CDs for samples and found a sample that, after it had been stretched and warped, sounded like they were saying, “Sssssslllllllllaaaaaaaaaayyyyyy!” I thought, “Wow, this is sick,” so I tried my best to keep that vibe over the whole track. But that’s how it got started.
What motivates you to continue making music?
I think I’m addicted to it… I definitely ‘give up’ from time to time, but I can’t escape the grip it has over me. Like I said, I think it’s an addiction.
How important is feedback to you?
Feedback is important, but there comes a point where I have to stop listening and trust myself. So currently about a 3/10.
What are your hopes or wishes for this year?
Health, wealth, and good memories.
The most important thing in life is? $$$
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