Why Leaving Your Studio Might Be Your Best Creative Decision
Last week, something happened that completely shifted my perspective on creativity. My podcast co-host Mordio came back from Amsterdam Dance Event and couldn't stop talking about this mind-blowing experience at ZERØBPM—a 35.5-hour ambient music event in a church. No talking, just candles, meditation monks, and pristine hi-fi sound systems. Pure sonic ceremony.
And honestly? It made me realize how much we're missing by staying glued to our DAWs and studios.
Reclaiming Real Inspiration
Here's the thing: we spend so much time inside our studios, thinking the next plugin or gear piece will unlock our creativity. But what actually sparks something new? Going out. Experiencing art that has nothing to do with music production. Having random conversations with strangers. Visiting museums. Just being bored enough to let your mind wander.
I've been building this new ambient live setup lately—just my Push and a couple of instruments loaded. No pre-recorded patterns, no preparation. Every time I start playing on it, it sparks something completely new. Playing for an hour straight in complete flow state. And you know what fueled that? Not scrolling my Instagram. It was getting inspired by the world outside my studio walls and conversations with people like my friend Fabian Laute about his creative approach.
From Algorithm to Intention
Mordio and I have both moved away from algorithmic music consumption. No more Spotify throwing random tracks at us. Instead, we're deliberately researching artists again, buying specific albums, really diving deep into music we choose. It's like rediscovering why we fell in love with music in the first place.
The ritual matters too. Light a candle. Make your session intentional. Turn music-making into a ceremony rather than just another task on your to-do list.
Your Turn
When was the last time you left your studio to find inspiration? Museum? Art gallery? Random event you said yes to? That's where the magic happens.
We dive deeper into this in our latest Signal Chain Stories episode. Would love to hear your thoughts on this.
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