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Skrillex: The Electronic Music Prodigy’s Journey Through Time

by Micha
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Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

From Sonny Moore to Skrillex: A Musical Evolution

Skrillex, born Sonny John Moore on January 15, 1988, has become a household name in the world of Electronic Dance Music (EDM). As of 2023, Skrillex is 35 years old, but his impact on the music industry far exceeds his age. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of this talented artist and explore how he transformed from Sonny Moore to the iconic Skrillex we know today.

Table of contents

Early Years and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Northeast Los Angeles, Sonny Moore’s passion for music began at an early age. He attended various schools, including a private academy in the Forest Hills area of Los Angeles. It was during his time at elementary school that Moore first discovered his love for music, particularly guitar.

As a teenager, Moore became involved in the local punk and emo scene. He played guitar for several bands and attended numerous punk gigs, honing his skills and developing his musical taste. This early exposure to different genres would later influence his unique sound as Skrillex.

The Birth of Skrillex: From Post-Hardcore to EDM

From First to Last: The Post-Hardcore Era

In 2004, at the age of 16, Moore auditioned for the post-hardcore band From First to Last. His powerful vocals impressed the band members, and he was quickly brought on as the lead singer. Moore’s time with From First to Last marked a significant chapter in his musical journey.

  • The band released their first album, “Dear Diary, My Teen Angst Has a Body Count,” in 2004
  • Moore contributed to the band’s second album, “Heroine,” released in 2006
  • During this period, Moore toured extensively with the band, gaining valuable experience in the music industry

However, Moore’s time with From First to Last was cut short due to a surgical procedure he needed to undergo for his vocal cords. This unexpected turn of events would eventually lead to his transition into electronic music production.

The Emergence of Skrillex

After leaving From First to Last in 2007, Moore began experimenting with electronic music production. He adopted the stage name “Skrillex” and started creating his own unique sound, blending elements of dubstep, electro house, and other electronic genres.

  • In 2010, Skrillex released his debut EP, “My Name Is Skrillex”
  • His breakthrough came with the release of “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” EP later that year
  • The title track “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” became an instant hit and helped establish Skrillex as a rising star in the EDM scene
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Skrillex’s Rise to Fame: Grammy Awards and Collaborations

Grammy Success and Industry Recognition

Skrillex’s innovative sound and production techniques quickly caught the attention of both fans and industry professionals. His unique style, characterized by heavy bass drops and intricate sound design, set him apart from other electronic music producers.

  • In 2012, Skrillex won three Grammy Awards, including Best Dance Recording and Best Dance/Electronica Album
  • He continued to dominate the Grammy Awards in subsequent years, becoming one of the most decorated electronic music artists
  • Skrillex’s success at the Grammys solidified his position as a leading figure in the EDM world

High-Profile Collaborations

As Skrillex’s popularity grew, so did the opportunities for collaborations with other renowned artists. His versatility as a producer allowed him to work across various genres and with diverse artists.

  • Collaborated with Justin Bieber on the hit songs “Where Are Ü Now” and “Sorry”
  • Worked with Diplo to form the duo Jack Ü, releasing their self-titled album in 2015
  • Produced tracks for artists like Lady Gaga, Ellie Goulding, and Rick Ross

These collaborations not only showcased Skrillex’s versatility but also helped him reach an even wider audience beyond the EDM community.

Skrillex’s Evolving Sound and Studio Albums

Recess: The Debut Studio Album

In 2014, Skrillex released his first full-length studio album, “Recess.” The album featured a diverse range of sounds and collaborations, demonstrating Skrillex’s growth as an artist and producer.

  • “Recess” debuted at number four on the US Billboard 200 chart
  • The album included collaborations with artists like Chance the Rapper, Diplo, and Ragga Twins
  • Tracks like “Ease My Mind” and “Stranger” showcased Skrillex’s ability to create more melodic and radio-friendly tunes

Quest for Fire and Don’t Get Too Close: A Double Album Release

In 2023, Skrillex surprised fans with the release of two studio albums in quick succession: “Quest for Fire” and “Don’t Get Too Close.”

  • “Quest for Fire” was released on February 17, 2023
  • “Don’t Get Too Close” followed just a day later on February 18, 2023
  • These albums featured collaborations with artists like Fred Again.., Flowdan, and Missy Elliott

The double album release marked a new chapter in Skrillex’s career, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist and his ability to push the boundaries of electronic music.

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Beyond Music: Skrillex’s Ventures and Influence

OWSLA Record Label

In 2011, Skrillex founded his own record label, OWSLA. The label has since become a platform for emerging electronic music talent and has helped launch the careers of several notable artists.

  • OWSLA has released music from artists like Porter Robinson, Zedd, and Marshmello
  • The label has expanded beyond music releases to include merchandise and events

Video Game Soundtracks and Theme Songs

Skrillex’s influence extends beyond traditional music releases. He has contributed to various video game soundtracks and theme songs, bringing his unique sound to different media.

  • Composed the theme song for the video game “Kingdom Hearts III” in collaboration with Hikaru Utada
  • Created music for the “Wreck-It Ralph” movie soundtrack
  • Contributed to the “Spring Breakers” film score

Influence on EDM and Pop Culture

Skrillex’s impact on the electronic music scene and popular culture cannot be overstated. His innovative production techniques and genre-blending approach have inspired countless artists and producers.

  • Popularized the “dubstep drop” in mainstream music
  • Influenced the sound of pop music through his high-profile collaborations
  • Helped bring EDM into the mainstream, paving the way for its current popularity

Video: Skrillex – Biography and Origins of the Dubstep Producer

Conclusion: Skrillex’s Ongoing Legacy

As Skrillex continues to evolve and create new music, his influence on the electronic music scene remains strong. From his early days as Sonny Moore in post-hardcore bands to his current status as an EDM icon, Skrillex’s journey is a testament to his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft.

At 35 years old, Skrillex has already achieved more than many artists do in a lifetime. With eight Grammy Awards, numerous hit singles, and a loyal fan base, he has cemented his place in music history. As fans eagerly anticipate what he’ll do next, one thing is certain: Skrillex will continue to push the boundaries of electronic music and inspire the next generation of producers and artists.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, Skrillex’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere. It’s a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a willingness to experiment, anyone can make their mark on the music industry, regardless of age or background.

FAQs

How did Skrillex, originally Sonny Moore, begin his music career?

Skrillex, born Sonny Moore, started his music career in the punk and emo scene of Northeast Los Angeles. He played guitar for several bands and later became the lead singer for the post-hardcore band From First to Last at age 16.

What led to Sonny Moore’s transition from post-hardcore to electronic music?

Sonny Moore transitioned to electronic music after leaving From First to Last in 2007 due to vocal cord surgery. He began experimenting with electronic music production and adopted the stage name Skrillex, creating a unique sound that blended dubstep and electro house.

What was Skrillex’s breakthrough moment in his electronic music career?

Skrillex’s breakthrough came in 2010 with the release of his EP “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites.” The title track became an instant hit, establishing him as a rising star in the EDM scene and setting the stage for his future success.

How has Skrillex been recognized in the music industry?

Skrillex has been highly recognized in the music industry, winning eight Grammy Awards, including Best Dance Recording and Best Dance/Electronica Album. His innovative production techniques and unique sound have solidified his position as a leading figure in EDM.

What are some notable collaborations and ventures by Skrillex?

Skrillex has collaborated with artists like Justin Bieber, Diplo, Lady Gaga, and Ellie Goulding. He founded the record label OWSLA in 2011 and contributed music to video games and films, such as “Kingdom Hearts III” and “Wreck-It Ralph,” showcasing his versatility and influence beyond EDM.