SOSA (UK) Speaks: House Music, Hustle, & Headlines

When you hear certain names in the music scene, you instantly get a vibe about their style and think, "Yeah, they're sick." Whether they're tearing it up in the underground or hitting stages worldwide, some artists just have that standout factor. In the world of house music, Liverpool's SOSA is one such name, known for his tasteful tracks and lethal production skills.

In our exclusive interview, SOSA, or Jay Bradford, shares his journey from discovering FL Studio at 14 to being the head huncho of his label and party, COCO. His approach to music and label curation is instinctual, focusing on the vibe and quality of the tracks rather than adhering to a specific sound or genre.

Looking forward, SOSA plans to focus on projects that personally resonate with him in 2024. The full interview offers a deeper look into SOSA's world, blending professional insights with personal stories.

What initially drew you to the music scene, and how has your Liverpool upbringing influenced your sound?

I think what initially drew me to music, especially dance music, was when Swedish house mafia released “One”. I wasn’t the biggest music listener before that but I can remember vividly being on holiday from school staying up super late and the music video was on repeat on MTV.

Can you describe the moment you realized music production was your calling?

A friend showed me FL Studio when I was about 14 years old, and I was instantly hooked. I can remember sitting up for days making noises that sounded terrible but didn’t get bored once. I don’t think I’ve looked back since.

What has been the most challenging aspect of establishing your own record label and party, COCO?

The hardest part I think is actually curating line ups for the party’s. The main thing I wanted for COCO was for it to be its own entity and to try and showcase people whose music I love. It’s been going great so far so I’m very happy.

How do you select artists for your label, and what qualities do you look for?

There’s no selection process really, if the music is good then it’s good. I test it in my sets and then if I feel it’s right I try to sign it.

How do you maintain a balance between producing music and performing live? What’s life like when you’re not touring?

This has been the most difficult for me. Weirdly, before I was touring I used to make music everywhere I could and it wouldn’t matter. Now I struggle to make anything on the road, and also when I get home it’s tough to get back in routine and find the time. When I’m home I’m usually spending time with my family, fitting the studio, and gym in between when I can.

What has been your most memorable performance to date and why? What’s a bucket list venue you want to play?

Tough one! It has to be the last few Creamfields I’ve done for sure. I think it’s always special because I grew up two minutes away from the original festival site. It’s basically a huge hometown gig for me and the sheer volume of people at all my sets there has been unbelievable.

What's the story behind your collaboration with Cloonee on "Weeping Willow"?

Me and Cloonee have spoken for years but over the last few years we’ve really connected so it was a no brainer. I was doing a tour in the states and flew to LA for a few days so we could lay some stuff down and Weeping Willow was the outcome.

How do you feel your sound has evolved since your first release?

To be really honest I don’t feel like I have a “sound”. I’ve struggled with this for years trying to make something stick but sometimes I actually think it’s a good thing. I don’t have any songs that sound similar to the last.

Are there any genres outside of house that influence your music? If you could dive into any other genre for your music career, what would it be?

I’m a massive hip-hop fan so I would have to say that.

Did you have any mentor or role model during your rise in the industry?

There’s a few to mention here. From the start, I was a huge Solid Grooves fan so I’m going to say inspirations were/are PAWSA and Michael Bibi for sure. Another huge inspiration for me is Solomun.

If you were to suggest the ultimate club experience for someone new to minimal or tech house music, which country and club would you recommend for an authentic and unforgettable introduction to this experience?

So many to choose from but one of the first that comes to mind for me is Fabric in London. It’s a real institute and I think it’s a great place to hear new music.

What can fans expect from your upcoming projects or releases in 2024?

I’m just trying to have fun this year and make music that I like myself. It’s going to be a mixture of all kinds.

Outside of music, what are your passions or hobbies?

Music is basically my hobby that I’ve luckily been able to do full time so I basically just do that hahah.

If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be?

I would love to do a song with Travis Scott and dance music wise PAWSA.

For a bit of fun: if you were stranded on a desert island and could only take three records with you, which would they be?

Jamiroquai - Space Cowboy, Love Birds - Want You In My Soul & ANOTR - Relax My Eyes.