Today we’d like to introduce you to Joel Woods.
Hi Joel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a very musical family where everyone was constantly singing or playing an instrument. It wasn’t until after high school that I thought I could make a career in music. I started pursuing this passion as best I knew how – auditioning for the reality tv shows such as American Idol, AGT, The Voice, along with other talent conventions. Prior to moving to LA, I started working at a studio in Richmond, Virginia called Passion Academy. I taught some younger artists how to play guitar, sing, produce, and engineer themselves. Working there not only helped me get better at my craft but also encouraged me to work with other musicians.
A few years later, my brother, my best friend, and I moved out to LA. I didn’t know exactly how to start, but I tried to meet people in my field as quickly as possible. Even though Los Angeles is such an enormous city, it ends up being quite small once you find your network of friends. I’ve been blessed to be working full-time as a music producer/artist for 4 out of the 5 years that I’ve lived here, and I’ve met and worked with so many talented artists.
Currently, my love for working with artists has turned into more of full development of their sound and brand. My fiancé, Katherine, and I recently started our company, Neon Tears Collective, as a one-stop-shop for artists. We can do anything from photoshoots, music videos, and of course, music production, all within our small team. I’m thrilled to be in a position to help any artist grow without having to sign their life away and at a fair price for everyone.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Wow – has it been a journey! To paraphrase something I heard someone say, “If you think you can do something else for a living, get out now.” That really stuck with me because it’s true for 99% of us trying to “make it” in the industry. The road is long and most of the time, you’re walking on glass with no shoes, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. There’s been many financial struggles, mental challenges, and trust issues that come with the territory, but that’s molded me into who I am today. Still face some of these issues currently, but I’m learning and growing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an artist, I’m currently figuring out my sound. I’m releasing one song per month alongside a music video and seeing what ‘sticks.’ It’s hard to box myself into a particular sound since I’m into a lot of different genres and can produce so many styles that I kinda just go with what inspires me.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I like to think I’m an open book…on the quieter side, but love a good chat. Friends tell me that I’m good at everything, but I don’t know how much I believe them. Also, I can make a pretty good trumpet sound with just my mouth. Take that Charlie Puth!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelwdz/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpMlk7bDq-MowvLUjsxgZ4g
- Other: https://vibe.to/madman
Image Credits
Katherine Mendez Merissa Shaban Christina Nguyen
