BEHIND THE SOUND: STREETON
In just three years, STREETON has carved out a space for himself with releases on iconic labels like Dance Regular and Darker Than Wax — epitomising everything we love about Broken Beat.
His grooves are built to move you, with funky basslines, rich chords, and a discography that glides from slow, mesmerising jams to high-energy dancefloor heaters. His recent release on Boogie Café follows this trend, showcasing his unmistakable sound.
We caught up with STREETON to talk about his single ‘STOP IT!’ on ‘We Move as One’, and to dig into what drives him creatively.
Tell us about your song, ‘STOP IT!’, on the compilation.
The framework for my track ‘STOP IT!’ came together pretty quickly, I wanted to create something energetic and fun whilst keeping it soulful and easy on the ears. I was pretty inspired by the concept of the compilation alone as it really resonated with me, and I tried to capture the colourful energy of the scene and the excitement it brings me!
What sounds, and artists do you draw inspiration from normally in your creative process?
Anything rhythmic and interesting! I’m always turning to afro-centric stuff - a lot of older makossa, Congo funk, I was listening to loads of Ebo Taylor at the time of the project and the rhythm and vocal sample was definitely inspired by some of those sounds. I’m also a big fan of Kyoto Jazz massive, big jazz chords and broken beats.
Do you have a fixed way of creating music? Where do you normally start an idea form?
Honestly, it varies, I often start with drums and percs, but sometimes I love just messing around with different synths and laying down some chords that vibe before building around those. For me I normally get most of the track down in one manic messy session, then do the tidying and refining later.
Any words of wisdom for anyone wanting to realise a creative project?
Be real with yourself about its purpose - I’m quickly realising that my best work is when I have something to say, staying true to this I think is the key to meaningful art!
Do you have any upcoming projects we should keep an eye out for?
I’m excited to drop a project with Boogie Cafe in July, as well as a couple of remix projects over the summer. The full length is also very much on its way - been chugging away in the background for a hot sec!
What album or EP will you likely have on repeat for the rest of the summer?
The ‘Silhouettes’ EP by Matters Unknown, easily one of my favourite releases of the past year.
Any books, movies, or series you’re currently watching and would recommend, why?
Ok so without judgement the old Hell’s Kitchen is everything I need to switch off and have a giggle - sh** TV is a necessary evil once in a while, haha!
Check out STREETON’s guest mix from our TPTP x Voices Radio takeover below.