Rising Stars: Meet Robert Powell of New York

Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Powell.

Hi Robert, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My DJ journey began in Los Angeles when I was 28. I had started building momentum, booking gigs, and finding my sound, but everything came to a sudden halt when the COVID-19 pandemic shut the world down.

In 2020, I relocated to Atlanta, where I spent about a year navigating the uncertainty while the country was on pause. That time gave me space to reflect, grow, and realize that if I truly wanted to take my career to the next level, I needed to be in a city with the right energy, opportunities, and community.

Once things began reopening, I made the decision to move to New York City. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to perform at major events, build relationships within the house music community, earn residencies, and play internationally. Every city I’ve lived in has shaped me as both an artist and a person, but New York has become the place where my career has truly been able to soar. At 40, I’m more focused than ever on continuing to grow, evolve, and share my passion for music with people around the world.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Early on, I was very intentional about only playing predominantly straight events because I didn’t want to be labeled as just a “gay DJ” or feel like my career was confined to one scene. When I moved to New York City, my perspective completely changed. I realized there was nothing wrong with embracing both worlds. Playing LGBTQIA+ events opened so many doors, introduced me to incredible communities, and made me a more well-rounded artist.

Another challenge was finding my musical identity. I started out playing almost exclusively techno, but over time I discovered that I genuinely love house, Afro house, and techno. I didn’t want to be boxed into one genre simply because that’s what people expected from me. My biggest struggle has been getting people to understand that my versatility is my strength. I want to be respected for my ability to tell a story through different styles of music, not for fitting into one category.

Looking back, those challenges helped me find my voice. Today, I’m confident in who I am as an artist, and I no longer feel the need to choose between communities or genres. I embrace them all because that’s what makes me, me.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a DJ and producer whose passion is creating experiences through music. I specialize in techno, house, Afro house, and dance music, curating sets that keep people moving while introducing them to sounds they may have never heard before. I love taking listeners on a journey, blending genres, building emotion, and creating unforgettable moments on the dance floor.

What I’m most proud of is my willingness to push the envelope creatively. I never want to play it safe or be confined to one sound. Every set is an opportunity to tell a different story and challenge both myself and the audience.

Two of my proudest performances are my Nocturnal Emission set in Brooklyn, where I explored a techno-infused trance sound, and my Liberation set in Atlanta, where I leaned into high-energy dance and circuit music. Those sets represent two completely different sides of me as an artist, yet both are authentic expressions of who I am.

What sets me apart is my versatility. I’m not interested in being known for just one genre or one scene. Whether I’m playing techno, Afro house, house, or dance music, my goal is always the same: to create an emotional connection, introduce people to new music, and leave them with an experience they’ll remember long after the night ends.

Any big plans?
I’m excited about continuing to grow as both a DJ and producer. One of my biggest goals is to explore my artistic side even further by producing more original music and developing a sound that’s unmistakably my own.

I’m also looking forward to traveling the world, sharing my gift with different communities, cultures, and dance floors. Music has the power to connect people, and I want to continue being a part of that on a global scale.

One of my biggest dreams is to create and host my own event—a party that fully reflects my vision, musical style, and creative direction. I want it to be more than just a night out; I want it to be an experience where people can discover new music, feel free to be themselves, and leave inspired. That’s the direction I’m working toward, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legrandphoenix?igsh=MTEybnVlNXV6dm9iZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/GiGeftPfyzyoGzuz1e