Traps N Trees isn’t just another name in the DJ world, he’s a cultural ambassador for Philly Club Music (not Jersey Club music), a genre rooted in the aggressive energy and break-heavy beats that define the Philadelphia sound. In today’s club music scene, it’s easy to confuse various regional styles, but Traps N Trees remains authentic.
“I’m an authentic Philly Club Music producer with my ears to the culture,” he explains. For him, it’s more than just music, it’s a way of life shaped by the unique dance styles that come from the streets of Philly. Today’s exclusive interview will let us get to know the Philly Club legend.
South Jersey Origins, Philly Roots
Despite being born and raised in Woodbury, NJ, a small urban city in Gloucester County, Traps N Trees’ connection to Philly runs deep. South Jersey often falls into the Greater Philadelphia area, and its residents are more influenced by the Philly music scene than North Jersey’s Jersey Club music. “We weren’t listening to the records they were listening to in North Jersey,” he explains. Philly’s club music dominated the airwaves in his youth, laying the foundation for his passion for DJing and producing.
Formative Moments
A transformative moment during high school occurred when a friend introduced Traps to the DMAC dance. He watched and learned the dance moves online, which led him to discover DJ DWIZZ’s track “Get Em“, a song that has held a special place in my heart and in the Jersey Club Music scene. The energy and connection to dances like the sexy walk, top rock, and Wu-Tang became a lasting obsession for Traps.
This moment opened up a new world of club and party music for him. In Woodbury, he met people like DJ Teeb (RIP), who created party music for Power 107.9. From Woodbury to Philly, Traps has been representing his hometown while staying true to the music that shaped him.
A Free-Form Creative Process
Traps N Trees describes his creative process as “in the moment.” Whether he’s at a party or driving around, inspiration can strike anywhere. As a self-taught producer since he was 18, his approach is “very no-rules coded.” His ear is his guide, and his DJ background informs how he wants his records to sound. Sampling and chopping vocals and instrumentals are his forte, combined with heavy use of saturation.
He also notes that gear and technical know-how aren’t the be-all and end-all. One of his favorite quotes comes from DJ Sega, the pioneer of Philly Club Music: “I have one sword, other producers go out and trade their swords in and get fancier swords, whereas me I have one sword, and I’m going to sharpen it and make it the best sword I can.”
Navigating the Current Live Philly Club Music Scene
As a promoter of his own events, Traps N Trees has a front-row view of the evolving live music scene. “It’s a weird time for live music in 2024,” he admits. In an era where social media and streaming dominate, the image often trumps substance. The pressure to look polished and pull a crowd can overshadow the art, leading to a diluted music scene.
“You don’t have to be a great DJ to get booked in 2024,” he laments. But while he’s not a fan of the algorithm-based music culture, his passion for underground dance music remains strong. For Traps N Trees, it’s all about creating spaces where good music, culture, and community thrive.
Shout-Outs to Local Artists
Regarding influences and collaborations, Traps N Trees has plenty of talent to name. DJ Sega, the inventor of Philly Club Music, is a significant influence, along with DJ Reezey, DJ Manny215, and SDOT from Baltimore. Collaborations with artists like 1-800-RAZ, It’s Dynxmite, and Baltimega have produced some of his best work. “I’m not really the biggest collaboration guy,” he confesses, preferring to work solo. However, he shows deep respect for the other artist’s craft when he collaborates.
“Eat It From The Back” A Track You Need to Hear
If you’re looking to dive into Traps N Trees’ world, he recommends checking out his track “Eat It From The Back (Traps N Trees Vocals),” from his mixtape *Pancakes N Patroń Volume 3*. The project as a whole has a cohesive vibe all the way through. Each track has modern and nostalgic samples, a unique character, and drops that make you bounce. This project is a must-listen for anyone in the tri-state area who loves authentic Philly Club music! The track, “Eat It From The Back“, encapsulates his signature style, raw, energetic, and deeply rooted in the Philly Club Music scene.
Traps N Trees isn’t just producing music; he’s preserving and pushing the culture forward, one high-energy track at a time. For those seeking authenticity in an age of surface-level success, he’s the real deal. Check him out on Instagram for live show dates, his Soundcloud for more great music, and his friends at the Philly-based music collective Vitua94. Also, check out our pieces on Virtua94’s Andrea_andrea, local alt rapper JaiDontLeaveMe, and jazz and blues band Blue Street. Stay tuned for more, and as always…
STAY LUCID
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