Joe Kay, the founder of Soulection, launched the collective in 2011 as a college radio show, showcasing underground music and innovative beats. Over fifteen years, Soulection evolved into a cultural movement with a substantial presence on platforms like Apple Music and collaborations with artists such as Kaytranada and Brent Faiyaz before they became known.
Celebrating Soulection’s 15th anniversary, Kay reflects on building a community that supports emerging talent while aiming for higher goals, akin to striving for a championship. The collective combines music, fashion, and live events, creating a platform for the next generation of artists.
In the conversation leading up to their festival event in Atwater Village, Kay discusses collaboration dynamics, his filtering process for talent, and his upcoming dance music concept, “Tempo,” aimed at merging various electronic genres. Despite the saturated market for artists today, he emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and focused on evolving.
As Kay prepares for this anniversary celebration, he acknowledges both the meaningful connections he’s built and the continued desire to inspire others, drawing parallels to the impact of long-standing labels like Stones Throw and their legacy. He remains optimistic and excited for what the future holds for Soulection and its mission in the music landscape.
