Levi’s hit single “Jump” has gained 35 million streams (and counting) on Spotify already alone.
Levi is a breakout DJ/producer based out of New South Wales in Australia, and he’s exploded onto the scene this year with the release of his viral single, “Jump,” on Get Together Records.
Born Levi Neufeld, the 30-year-old isn’t really an overnight sensation, as he’s been producing and playing shows for five years before this year’s single began to dominate the circuit.
From playing events like Ralph Lauren’s Australian Open party, opening for the GRAMMY-nominated Kehlani, an official after-party for Anderson .Paak, and Your Paradise Fiji, Levi is finally able to perform his original music in latest sets, which of course, includes “Jump.” The song was released in late March, just in time for the start of festival season in the U.S., and since then, it’s been streamed more than 35 million times on Spotify alone.
When it comes to influences and music motivators, Levi says he finds inspiration in electronic music that’s heavily influenced by R&B. Discovering artists like Keinemusik, Sonny Fodera, and Jaydon Lewis in addition to acts like Groove Armada, who was his first introduction to electronic music, Levi has developed his production style and honed in on crafting his own Afro-beat-leaning sound. His passion for combining R&B and electronic is apparent on his smash hit “Jump,” which incorporates elements of Ginuwine’s 1996 hit, “Pony.”
DJ LIFE caught up with Levi to chat some more about how he got his start as a DJ and producer, the seemingly overnight success of “Jump,” and where he intends on going from here. Here’s what he had to say upon our recent sit-down…
DJ LIFE: When did you begin to explore electronic music?
Levi: I’ve been heavily influenced by R&B, and through exploring different genres adjacent to R&B, I came across artists like Keinemusik, Jaydon Lewis, Sonny Fodera, and so on. But my first introduction to electronic music was Groove Armada as a child, such a unique sound at the time and really captivating.
DJ LIFE: What came first for you – DJing or producing in the studio?
Levi: Playing the guitar was the first introduction to music, then went into DJing later, as I started to go out more and watch DJs play. That definitely pushed me to dive further into production and producing. DJing allows to create a vibe and producing music allows you to create a moment – both I absolutely love.
DJ LIFE: When it came to your first-ever DJ set-up and DAW, what did you initially learn to DJ with and what was your studio setup like?
Levi: Pioneer DJ’s XDJ-RR [2-channel, all-in-one system] is great to familiarize yourself with Pioneer decks, and Ableton Live for production. I used a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for an interface and KRK monitor speakers. It’s a simple set-up, but it’s literally all you need!
DJ LIFE: Since your recent success, have things changed for you? If so, how?
Levi: A lot more flights now, and a lot more people. It’s really cool travelling around and being able to play in different cities… all this from music that I absolutely love. There are still constants in my life that I enjoy – I love being home.
DJ LIFE: In the studio, what are some of your go-to programs, plug-ins, sample packs, etc.?
Levi: Serum [from Xfer Records] is the go-to for almost all synth sounds – it’s user-friendly and really versatile. I use Omnisphere [from Spectrasonics] for something more detailed, and it has some insanely beautiful sounds. As for samples, ANH, who’s an Australian producer, makes great sample packs.
DJ LIFE: Tell us a little bit about your single “Jump,” which you released earlier this year. What does the song mean to you?
Levi: “Jump” represents my breakthrough into this world of dance music. I was completely floored by the response to it and how well it caught online. I produced it at home and now it takes me around the world, bizarrely enough.
DJ LIFE: Did you have any expectations for the record since its release during this year’s festival season? Any inkling it might do very well?
Levi: No, I had no idea this song would lead to touring Europe and selling out shows. It’s still not lost on me how difficult it is to have songs connect with an audience. You can’t really plan it, nor do I look for it in a song. I just make what I love and share it.
DJ LIFE: Are you frequently playing more shows now? What has that record done for you?
Levi: Oh definitely, more shows. “Jump” has definitely been a catalyst to my growth as an artist. It’s also allowed me to showcase some more of the music in my sets, which has been really rewarding. I have a lot of music still to come, and it’s hard being patient.
DJ LIFE: From release until now, when you play “Jump” during a set, what type of response have you typically been receiving?
Levi: It’s definitely the biggest song in my sets and super engaging from a fan perspective, too. A lot of shows this year have been in some incredibly beautiful outdoor venues. The song captures this little essence of summer that I think people enjoy.
DJ LIFE: When showing up to a gig, what are three songs you always have on your USB?
Levi: “Jump,” of course – that’s obvious! Also, Route 94’s “My Love” featuring Jess Glynne. This song really connects – it’s kinda underappreciated. Jess Glynne’s vocal on it is amazing! Also, “Contesto” by Dos Amis.
Response to this track in my sets has been crazy – just great energy on this record. It can be different countries, but always the same energy.
DJ LIFE: As a breakout DJ/producer currently enjoying a peak, what advice can you offer to those persistently trying to break through?
Levi: Consistency is key and just keep going. It took me four to five years to essentially break through overnight. It takes a lot of patience and a lot of planning, trusting your music, and always loving what you’re putting out first. Don’t do it for hype or attention; do it because you love it.
DJ LIFE: Tell us what we can expect to come from Levi…
Levi: There will be new music with some really big U.K. and U.S. artists. There will be new shows with some beautiful locations. I’m looking to ramp up the amount of music for the end of the year and into 2025. Some releases I’m really excited about with some new soundscapes, always evolving.