Johan van Mullem

RGM INTRODUCING – WE INTERVIEW JOHAN VAN MULLEM 

Hiya Jojan, thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today. Grab a brew and take a seat.

Thanks for joining us today… Tell us bit about where you are from and how you got into music?

So basically, I grew up in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. I’ve always been into music and had written a lot of stuff over the years, but I never released or published anything. That changed when I decided to put one of my songs on TikTok. It got a lot of positive comments and views, which really motivated me to take music more seriously, because I saw that a lot of people genuinely appreciated what I was making.


What’s the live music scene like in (Amsterdam) right now? Anyone we should be looking out for (bar you, of course)?

I’m really inspired by a lot of emerging artists who are just doing their own thing without overthinking trends. There are some great independent musicians coming out of the Netherlands right now, especially in the indie and alternative scene, who are making very honest, DIY-driven music. I always like discovering artists who focus more on emotion and storytelling than chasing numbers.

Do you think it’s easy to become a victim of of our surrounds sometimes?

I think only if you allow it, to be honest. I come from a gypsy culture, and the only chances I didn’t get were the ones I didn’t take. I really believe that where there’s a will, there’s a way. If I want something, I go after it and I am willing to work hard. 

What are your ambitions for the band?

To get heard by as many people as possible, and hopefully bring something to the table that makes people feel good, or at least gives them something they can relate to in one way or another.

Whats your favourite social media platform to use and why?

TikTok, by far. It’s the platform where I first discovered that people really appreciate the music I make. The feedback is super honest and direct. There’s no mercy, and I actually like that.

We believe it’s essential to have a presence on Facebook, Instagram and X to introduce yourself to all the different types of audiences out there, what’s your thoughts on that?

I agree. Nowadays, social media gives you the opportunity to put yourself out there and reach a lot of people, which can really help you build a solid fan base. For a lot of DIY artists, having a presence on different platforms is essential.

Johan van Mullem

What’s your view on the Music industry today?

I think there are a lot of great artists out there today, including many whose foundations were built through social media. It feels like more talented people are getting real chances nowadays, which is a positive shift in the industry.

Whats your thoughts on AI generated music?

For everyone who’s using it and becoming successful with it, touché. For me, it’s a personal no go. I like to develop my own talent and make music that truly represents who I am as a person, and I want to see that reflected in my music and my visuals, including my music videos. I loooove the creative process of making music and the visuals(video clip online Feb 15th.

I’m too involved to just put an idea into an application and see what comes out. No offence to anyone who uses it.

Whats the biggest thing you have learned recently as you progress with your music? 

That’s a good one. I think learning to shift between different vibes(I tend to hold on to what I’m used to) and experimenting more with different sounds during the production of my music has been the biggest lesson for me recently.

What’s currently in your ears and on rotation at the moment? 

Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of alternative and indie music, especially artists who focus on atmosphere and emotion rather than perfection.

What was your worst experience on stage? Any funny stories to share?

Yeah, I once had to check the first line of the song I was about to sing because I completely forgot the lyrics. I just made a joke about it and kept going with the moment.

Got any fun, funny stories from life on the road?

I am not on the road yet.

I hear you have new music. What can you tell us about it?

Basically, I hope people experience it as a vibe. I think the song sits somewhere in the mainstream, but it still has its own character. I tried to reflect that same feeling in the visuals and the music video as well. I really hope people connect with it.

What was the recording process like?

It was actually one of the fastest songs I’ve written. It was one of those creative moments where the ideas and melodies just kept flowing. I consciously kept the vocals simple to maintain the laid back vibe of the track.

Would you change anything now it’s finished?

I like your questions. Yes, there is something I’d like to change, but I prefer people to listen to the song without any pre judgement. If they hear what I hear, I’ll take it as a lesson and carry that into my upcoming projects.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?

I just hope people enjoy the music as much as I enjoy making it. If it makes you feel good or if you can relate to it in any way, then my work is done.

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Cheif