Seven Lives Later: Caleb Jackson’s Unconventional Rise

Introduction: The Early Days and Musical Roots

Caleb Jackson’s path to becoming a rising star in the house music universe is as idiosyncratic as his sound. Born and raised in New Zealand, Caleb’s love for music was sparked at a young age by his grandfather, who introduced him to classical compositions. “He’d explain the stories behind the pieces, showing me how music could evoke emotions and tell a narrative without words,” Caleb recalls. This early exposure to classical music developed his appreciation for sound as an expressive medium, a concept that would later become central to his own music.

At 14, Caleb discovered trance music, which he would blast in his car, feeling somewhat like an outsider in the music scene. Later on, he grew to appreciate Disclosure’s complex, emotive sounds after seeing them live. These early musical experiences shaped Caleb’s taste and gave him a broad palette from which to develop his style. Eventually, he found his calling in house music, which he discovered while living in Sydney, Australia.

Career Beginnings: From Arborist to Music Producer

Before he became a DJ, Caleb took an unconventional path that included work as an arborist and a military consideration. After working as a wakeboard instructor in the United States, Caleb returned to New Zealand and briefly thought about joining the military to support a career working with kids. To qualify, he even went back to finish high school at 22. But when faced with the reality of military life, he had a change of heart. “I realized I couldn’t see myself pointing a gun at someone,” he admits. This turning point led him away from a conventional career path and back to his creative roots.

After settling in Sydney, Caleb began immersing himself in house music. A self-taught musician, he spent hours watching YouTube tutorials, mastering the technicalities of music production. “It took me four years to learn how to make music, not just sounds,” he explains. Gradually, Caleb developed his style, which evolved from deep tech to classic house during the pandemic.

Finding Roots in Sydney (and in Trees)

When Caleb Jackson moved from New Zealand to Sydney’s vibrant Eastern Suburbs, he found himself captivated by the city’s energy and diversity. Yet, his first career move was not in music—it was in arboriculture. “Once I was in Sydney, I decided to study to become a tree specialist—an arborist,” he explains. “I spent four years learning everything about trees and their science.”

Working as an arborist taught Caleb valuable lessons in patience, focus, and resilience. He spent hours mastering the complexities of trees and the environment, qualities that would later serve him well in the competitive and challenging music industry. His time as an arborist allowed him to develop a calm, steady approach to his work, skills he would draw upon as he transitioned from tree tops to turntables.

This unusual path also helped ground Caleb in the importance of discipline and growth—a theme that would guide his career in music as he grew his unique sound and presence in the electronic music scene.

Immersion in the Scene: Discovering Lost Sundays and Building a Community

A pivotal moment in Caleb’s career came when he encountered Lost Sundays, a progressive and inclusive party series in Sydney. “I was intimidated at first,” Caleb recalls, remembering how he walked into the party dressed in a mesh crop top and hot shorts, surrounded by his queer friends during Mardi Gras weekend.

But the vibe instantly clicked with him. Inspired, he threw a private party for the Lost Sundays crew, playing a set of original music that received high praise. His style, which was high-energy yet soulful, resonated with the community, and before long, Caleb was welcomed as part of the family.

The crew behind Lost Sundays, Finely Tuned, soon offered him representation. Rather than joining an established agency, Caleb chose to work with them, valuing their supportive approach and “street cred.” As the only domestic artist on their roster, Caleb felt he’d found a home that prioritized authentic connections and fostered a sense of community, aligning with his personal values.

The Process: Translating Emotions into Sound and Groove

Caleb’s studio process reflects his drive to mastering music that resonates emotionally. Influenced by the grooves of old-school funk, disco, and hip-hop, Caleb is obsessed with what he calls the “art of groove”—the infectious rhythm that compels people to dance. He draws from classic sounds but applies modern production techniques, aiming to create music that’s fresh and timeless.

Inspiration also comes from his personal experiences and the energy of his surroundings. Rather than chasing trends, Caleb prefers to tap into moments, whether it’s the vibe of a warehouse party or the sights and sounds of a city. “I don’t make music for a label or to create a hit,” he says. “I try to capture what I’m feeling at that moment and put it into a track.” One of his standout songs, Stylin, on elrow music, was inspired by a night at a warehouse party where he heard a hip-hop-infused electronic set that was “sleazy, low-slung, and rolling.”

Back in the studio, Caleb channeled that energy, blending chopped-up vocals with a rolling groove. The track became a hit and eventually caught the attention of Archie Hamilton.

Collaborating with Archie Hamilton and Joining MicroHertz

Archie Hamilton, a prominent figure in UK house music, had been a longtime inspiration for Caleb. “Archie could make club hits and then switch to something more introspective and emotional,” Caleb says. Releasing music on Archie’s label, MicroHertz, had been a dream of his. Over the years, Caleb sent tracks to Archie without receiving a response. Still, confident in his work, he told himself, “One day, he’ll play my record.”

Check out Caleb Jackson B2B with Archie Hamilton on MicroHertz Radio 003. Stream their set on Rinse FM and experience the synergy firsthand.

That moment came when Caleb’s track Jam Hot was played by Archie at DC-10 in Ibiza. Thrilled, Caleb reached out to thank him, and Archie responded enthusiastically, asking Caleb to send more music.

This exchange ultimately led to the release of Caleb’s Bassface EP on MicroHertz. The EP perfectly showcases Caleb’s signature ‘psychedelic funk’ sound, delivering the bounce and groove listeners love. This milestone brought Caleb closer to his dream of collaborating with a respected artist who shared his vision for emotionally resonant music.

Dance Floors, Big Moments, and European Magic

As Caleb’s reputation grew, so did his opportunities to perform internationally. Playing at fabric in London was a milestone, especially since he shared the stage with the Pitch Records crew, whom he’d only known online.

However, his favorite venue experience so far has been Thuishaven in Amsterdam, an intimate club with an incredible vibe. “It’s sick—like, real vibes. You just have to experience it,” he says enthusiastically.

Caleb was supposed to play in Ibiza that summer but was dropped from the lineup due to a last-minute change. However, promoter Prunk invited him to play at Thuishaven as an apology, and it ended up being an unforgettable 10-hour set, flawless from start to finish. Caleb played only his original music, feeding off the energy of the crowd and going B2B with his friend Kim April.

Check out snippets from the electric night here!

The night generated more connections in the Netherlands, leading to multiple offers from promoters in Amsterdam, further establishing Caleb’s presence in the European music scene.

Reflections on the Music Scene and Humility in the Industry

Throughout his career, Caleb has noticed a common thread among successful artists—humility. Many of the DJs and producers he admires are down-to-earth, often introverted, and deeply passionate about their craft.

Caleb believes that personality matters just as much as talent, especially in an industry where community and collaboration play such significant roles. Reflecting on his journey, he values the artist communities that emphasize authentic connections and mutual support over competition.

Looking Ahead: A Kiwi on the Rise

Caleb Jackson can be seen as someone who has lived many different lives, but he has now found his true calling in music. Continuously evolving as an artist, Caleb has reached significant milestones, including releases on his dream label, performing at some of Europe’s most exciting clubs, playing at his favorite festivals in Australia, and touching base in the United States. His set was even featured on Insomniac’s Radio Show with the House Hats Records Hotline.

Recently, he stirred up an energetic set at Sutra Sunrise in Sydney, once again proving why he stands out as a performer. This past summer, he released fresh tracks on Sweatrz Records, further expanding his artistry and musical style. After spending the last five weeks back home focused on creating new music, Caleb is ready to share what’s next.

We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Caleb as he continues to perform, collaborate, and craft music that reflects his experiences and ideas. His journey—from discovering dance music as an outsider to establishing himself as an artist abroad—demonstrates his drive for growth and creative expression. For Caleb Jackson, each track and performance adds a new chapter to his story, building a connection with listeners and leaving a lasting impression.