An Interview with Korey Wade

”I started Brunch Collect shortly after which became my label. I’ve been making music for over twenty years now.” - Korey Wade

It was a pleasure to recently interview Korey Wade! We discussed his musical beginnings, his new EP, how he defines success in the music industry, AI music, and so much more! I’ve been a big fan of Korey and his highly influential Brunch Collect record label for years so this was a huge honor. Be sure to stream his brand new EP, the excellent SHINE. It’s a vibe.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

How did you get started making music?

I started out in hardcore bands when I was about 16, then moved into a few indie projects. I was always the one writing or producing behind the scenes, making beats and recording ideas on my own. Once I had my kid, I didn’t have as much time for band practice, so I went all in on solo production. I started with electronic music and a little indie electronic project, which slowly evolved into instrumental hip hop and lo-fi after hitting a few local beat shows in Phoenix. My first solo show was at The Green Room in Flagstaff AZ, and I was hooked. I started Brunch Collect shortly after which became my label. I’ve been making music for over twenty years now.

How does this new album coming out on October 24 differ from your previous work?

This one leans deeper into the bass and electronic side of things.. more low end, vibey drums, and R&B textures. It still feels chilly, but it definitely hits harder. There’s more movement, more energy, and a lot of vocal chop layers that give it that modern bounce.

In the lead-up to an album release, what thoughts are going through your head?

I release a lot of music. I don’t like sitting on tracks for too long but this project feels special. I’m proud of the direction and the sound. It’s the first time in a while where I feel like I’ve captured exactly what’s in my head. Mostly I’m excited, but there’s always that mix of nerves too.

What’s your favorite song from the new album?

LET IT FLOW! I love how it came together so much, the keys, guitars, the melodies, the vocal chops it just feels so right to me.

When it comes to AI music versus human-made music, what gets lost when music loses that human touch?

Human imperfection is the best part of course. The swing, the small timing mistakes, the emotion behind why a note hits a certain way, that’s what connects people I think. AI can mimic sounds for sure, but not feelings.

How do you define success as a musician?

Success is just loving what I do. This is my outlet and my comfort zone. If people connect with it, that’s dope but even if they didn’t, I’d still be making music every day.

If money wasn’t a worry, where would you choose to live?

That’s super tough right now. I actually just made a big move from Phoenix, AZ to southern Maine, near Portland. After spending most of my life in the desert, being surrounded by trees and nature feels perfect. Right now, this is exactly where I want to be.