During the Nexus Lounge ADE Edition’s Technics Space, we sat down with Tensteps for an inspiring chat. The New York-born, Las Vegas-based producer has been making waves in the electronic music scene, and as they delved into his journey, it became clear just how unique his path has been.
Tensteps, known for his sonic shift, started the conversation with an anecdote about his name. “In my old apartment,” Tensteps recalled, “I was rolling out of bed and counted the steps to my studio desk. It was ten.” What seems like a trivial detail sets the tone for an artist guided by spontaneity and intuition.
A conversation about sobriety unfolded between the host Davis and Tensteps—a shared experience that added a layer of depth to the dialogue. “I stopped because I no longer enjoyed spending the money on it,” Tensteps revealed, emphasizing how personal decisions outside of music influence his artistry. This newfound clarity seemed to coincide with his evolving musical style.
In this new sonic chapter, Tensteps has left behind the trance sounds of his debut 2023 album “Infinite” in favor of something edgier. “I totally changed my sound this year,” he said. “It’s more of a techno-influenced, big roomy, rave-y kind of sound.” This shift was born not just from necessity but an authentic pull towards the energy and freedom found in these genres.
His inspiration, as he described, wasn't derived from live shows but rather from the digital realm. "I was finding stuff on Spotify and hearing tracks my friends were circulating in group chats," he shared. The motto seemed to be: music doesn't always have to be consumed in nighttime venues to have an impact.
Tensteps emphasized the fun in the music, which he believes is crucial. With his viral remix on TikTok amassing millions of views, he reminded aspiring creators not to take themselves too seriously. “We have a lot of serious shit in this world,” he stated candidly. “Not all music has to be so serious.”
As the interview wrapped up, the significance of ADE as a nexus for artists became apparent. For Tensteps, it was less about showcasing his work and more about reconnecting with the community that drives this vibrant scene. “For every ADE, I’m always happy to reconnect with people I don’t see often,” he enthused.
To experience the full spectrum of Tensteps’ story, make sure to catch the complete interview. It’s an unfiltered glimpse into an artist who’s unafraid to evolve and push boundaries, all the while keeping the fun and flair at the forefront of his creative journey.
