Channel Tres, the genre-bending producer from California, is carving out his own path in the music industry. Blending the sounds of funk, hip-hop, and pop, he coined the term Compton House, creating a style that resonates across diverse audiences. Since his breakout single “Controller” in 2018, Tres has captivated listeners with his unique groove and fearless approach, collaborating with heavyweights like Tyler The Creator, Disclosure, and Robyn. His latest album, Head Rush, sees him pushing boundaries even further, channeling personal experiences into an eclectic mix that showcases his evolving artistry. He has also announced a run of EU/UK shows for later this year, kicking off in London, November 28th at Here at Outernet with stops in Berlin, Paris, Cologne, and Utrecht.
INTERVIEWS
Head Rush is an introspective 17-track exploration of Tres’ life. The album documents his rise from challenging beginnings to a thriving career, featuring contributions from Teezo Touchdown, Ravyn Lenae, Estelle, and Ty Dolla Sign. In this exclusive interview by editor Anastasija Pavic for DSCENE Magazine, Channel Tres shares insights into his creative journey, how he navigates vulnerability in his music, and the inspiration behind his most ambitious project yet.
Who were the musicians that had the biggest impact on you growing up, and how have they influenced your ability to merge different genres?
Prince, Andre 3000, Pharrell and George Clinton. Everyone was pretty eclectic , on speakerboxx/love below on Andre’s side of the album it starts off with this Jazz number, and prince mixing rock and roll with funk, Pharrell merging skate culture with hiphop, it’s just been a part of me from day one.
Your debut album Head Rush feels like a deeply personal project. What led you to finally feel ready to share this chapter of your life through a full-length LP?
It could have been the need for an outlet also this moment felt pivotal in my development. I had something to say so I just said it and it took 17 songs to say it.
“I just developed so many skills and I met so many people I just know how to read a room and try to do what I do but also mold it to whatever audience I’m in front of.”
As you experiment with different sounds, how do you ensure that your music remains authentic to who you are?
By never losing the love and remembering why I started which was to have fun and be able to support myself doing something I love.
In your music, you often revisit and reconnect with your history. How does Compton continue to influence your sound, and in what ways have your roots shaped the themes in Head Rush?
There’s a lot to explore in your childhood and things come up and I’ll get memories here and there and that always sparks a thought. My roots shaped the language and the beat of Head Rush a lot of the language and production was inspired by sounds of my city, DJ Quik plays the bass on “Gold Daytonas” and Terrace Martin on the leads in “Here” and Thundercat on “Candy Paint” that’s all my city and I was able to create my own version of the sound from my city.
You’ve played at iconic venues like Berghain and Boiler Room, as well as major festivals around the world. How do you adapt your live performance to fit such different environments?
It came from having “be ready for anything” mentality. I had to do so many things to “stay in the room” and to keep a job in music. So in that I just developed so many skills and I met so many people I just know how to read a room and try to do what I do but also mold it to whatever audience I’m in front of.
“If I start thinking too much then it’s not good because I usually forget to have fun.”
Touring with Kaytranada has been a huge highlight of your year. How has this experience shaped your outlook on performing and collaborating?
This tour helped me to create new goals for myself , I was feeling a little stagnant before this tour and it was very inspiring and fun to be around my friend and go on this journey together the shows have been magical.
What goes through your mind when you’re on stage, and how do you keep the energy fresh night after night?
Nothing goes through my head really; I usually just black out and get to it. If I start thinking too much then it’s not good because I usually forget to have fun. I keep it fresh by sleeping and watching “Rick and Morty” after.
With a EU/UK ahead, how do you maintain your creativity and inspiration on the road?
By talking to people, journaling , and taking pictures.
How do you handle the pressure of constantly evolving as an artist?
By looking at my victories and managing my mental and not being hard on myself and having goals that will eventually lead to my bigger goals.
What advice would you give your younger self, especially when you were first starting out in the music industry?
Practice more.
oh love channel tres! Amazing from DSCENE for giving him a spotlight! <3