Phazon Sound SystemShell Robinson is a classically trained pianist turned progressive house DJ and producer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her journey into electronic music began in 2000 at Cleveland’s That Groovy Little Nightclub, eventually leading her into professional DJing and music production. Over the years, she has performed at iconic venues such as 1015 Folsom and along Austin’s famed 6th Street, sharing stages with legends like Paul Oakenfold and John Digweed. Her recent releases on labels including UV Noir, Juicebox Music, and Schallmauer showcase a unique blend of technical precision and emotional depth.
A couple of months ago, I was listening to an episode of Balance Selections, a weekly podcast series from Balance Music, the legendary Australian electronic music label that has been spotlighting top-tier progressive house, deep house, and melodic techno since 2000. I never miss an episode. It’s one of my go-to sources for discovering new artists, and more often than not, I stumble upon someone whose sound instantly grabs me.
That’s exactly what happened when I pressed play on Balance Selections: 315. For two hours, I was completely immersed in a moody, melodic journey that I’ve since revisited multiple times. The artist behind the mix? Shell Robinson.
After a bit of digging, I discovered that Shell is a staple of the US Midwest progressive house scene, known for her deep, atmospheric DJ sets that artfully blend light and dark elements. With residencies under her belt and performances alongside icons like Paul Oakenfold, John Digweed, and Behrouz, her reputation for depth and versatility is well-earned. Now focused on production, Shell’s music has found a home on respected labels like UV Noir, Juicebox Music, and Schallmauer Records. She also hosts the HouseCall podcast, where she explores the stories and sounds of fellow artists.
As someone who’s passionate about interviewing artists and learning about their creative journeys, I reached out to Shell via Instagram. A few days later, I was deep in research mode, writing thoughtful questions and diving even further into her career. It’s been an absolute pleasure getting to know her, and I’m thrilled to share what I believe is one of the most comprehensive interviews I’ve done to date.
So, press play on Balance Selections: 315, settle into the vibe, and get to know the amazing Shell Robinson.
Shell, I’m looking forward to this conversation! One thing I always do to prepare for an interview is listen to the artist’s music. The first song I played was “Chemical Element,” which appeared on FSOE878. Can you tell me more about that single, your experience working with Redspace, and what it meant to have the support of Aly & Fila?
Thank you for diving into my music before our conversation! “Chemical Element” was a pivotal track for me, and working with Redspace was a true professional experience. Similar to our “Reflections” collaboration for Juicebox Music, I initiated the track concept, and Redspace brilliantly expanded it with his instrumentation, arrangement, and mixing expertise.
Having support from Aly & Fila was surreal – FSOE is such a respected radio show and platform in the progressive and trance community. For a newer producer like myself, their support was incredibly validating. Redspace has been not just a collaborator but a mentor throughout our projects together. His technical expertise and guidance have elevated my production skills tremendously, and I’m grateful for how he’s helped shape my sound while respecting my creative vision. I still want to be him when I grow up!
It was through Balance Selections, one of my favorite podcasts, that we were brought together. How did that come about? And can you share more about the mix? For me, it was a magical 2-hour journey through sound and space.
The Balance Selections opportunity came about through my continued work in the progressive scene. Walter from Balance heard one of my sets and reached out with an invitation. I’ve been collecting Balance compilations since 2000 – they’ve been formative to my sound and approach to creating musical journeys.
For the mix, I spent three weeks in the studio crafting three different versions before selecting the one that felt most authentic. I wanted to create a two-hour journey that balances light and dark elements – something that feels light in intent yet delivers a deep emotional impact. The mix features tracks from artists like D-Nox, Stereo Underground, and Noel Sanger, alongside three of my own unreleased productions.
What made this mix special was the opportunity to showcase my approach to extended sets – building a narrative that evolves patiently, with each transition serving the emotional arc of the journey. I closed with Pammin’s “Papillon” on Schallmauer – one of those special tracks that gives me goosebumps every time. The entire experience was about creating something both nostalgic and fresh.
You’re also the founder of PMx Partners. Can you tell me more about that? And how do you manage to balance a full-time job while also producing dance music mixes?
PMx Partners grew from my experience in the Property Technologies and multifamily industries. After years in executive roles, I recognized specific needs in the market that aligned with my expertise in property management technology innovation.
Balancing my consulting firm with music production requires dedicated time blocks and discipline. Music has always been my stress reducer and creative catalyst – whether I’m producing tracks or playing piano, it energizes every aspect of my life, including my executive work. I’ve found that mornings or evenings are my prime creation hours when ideas flow more freely, and I often review my productions while hiking or driving, reflecting on changes I want to make.
This balance actually creates a positive feedback loop – the creative energy I tap into through music production often sparks innovative solutions in my PropTech work. Both sides of my professional life engage different parts of my brain, which keeps me energized rather than depleted.
Earning an MBA is a significant commitment. What inspired your decision to pursue an MBA, and how has it shaped your approach to leadership, innovation, and problem-solving in the PropTech and multifamily industries?
It’s never too late to work on yourself. I went back for my MBA in midlife… Pursuing an MBA was a strategic decision to complement my technical expertise with a deeper understanding of business fundamentals. The program expanded my perspective on leadership, strategic thinking, and organizational dynamics in ways that have proven invaluable in the PropTech space.
What I found most valuable was how the MBA experience taught me to approach problems from multiple angles, considering financial, operational, and human factors simultaneously. This multidimensional thinking has been essential in navigating the complex intersection of technology and real estate.
The leadership frameworks I developed during my MBA have helped me build stronger teams and more resilient organizations. In the rapidly evolving multifamily and PropTech industry, where technology and human needs must align perfectly, these skills have been fundamental to creating solutions that actually solve real problems rather than just implementing technology for its own sake.
House music became a critical outlet for you after experiencing a profound personal loss. Can you share how that journey shaped your approach to DJing and production, and how you channel emotion into your music?
My journey into electronic music began during a difficult period in my life. In January 2000, in the middle of a Cleveland snowstorm, I ventured out to “That Groovy Little Nightclub” and heard early progressive house for the first time. A local DJ named Ernie played a remix of Everything But the Girl’s “Missing” and a Garbage bootleg that completely captivated me.
I was working through a profound personal loss then, and those nights became my therapy. I had lost a son after a four-year illness and was filled with grief. The immersive nature of electronic music – particularly progressive house with its emotional depth and hypnotic qualities – provided both escape and healing. The community I found on those dance floors gave me connection when I needed it most.
This experience fundamentally shaped how I approach music creation. I’m drawn to sounds that carry emotional weight while still moving forward – much like the process of healing itself. When I produce or DJ, I’m consciously crafting journeys that honor both light and shadow, creating safe spaces for listeners to process their own emotions through sound and rhythm.
Your sets are known for balancing light and dark elements, creating an immersive journey for listeners. How do you approach crafting this balance, and what emotions do you aim to evoke in your audience?
The balance of light and dark elements in my sets is very intentional. I believe that the most powerful musical journeys mirror life itself – they contain moments of both tension and release, shadow and light.
When I craft a set, I think of it as a narrative arc. I might start in a more contemplative, deeper space that gradually builds in energy and emotion. Those transitions between moods are where the magic happens. It’s never about just playing bangers or keeping it dark throughout – it’s about creating contrast that makes each element more impactful.
I aim to evoke a range of emotions rather than just one feeling state. There might be moments of melancholy that break into euphoria or driving rhythms that dissolve into ethereal breakdowns. What I want listeners to experience is a journey that feels both transformational and authentic – something that resonates on a deeper level than just making them dance. It’s always my goal to hear from someone that they felt that time was lost during my set – that they got lost in it and felt a personal shift from it as well. It has been that powerful for me personally that I want to share it with others.
This approach was particularly evident in my Balance Selections mix, where I crafted something that feels light in intent yet delivers a deep emotive punch. The mix never strays too far into darkness, striking that delicate balance between soul and energy… At least that’s the review that Walter from Balance gave it! (Laughs.)
You’ve shared the stage with legends like Paul Oakenfold, John Digweed, and Behrouz. What have you learned from these experiences, and has performing alongside such icons influenced your approach as a DJ and producer?
Sharing stages with artists who have shaped the landscape of electronic music has been incredibly humbling and educational. Each of these legends brings something unique to their craft that I’ve tried to absorb and integrate into my own approach.
From Paul Oakenfold, I learned the importance of storytelling on a grand scale – how to create epic moments that resonate with large crowds while maintaining artistic integrity. His mastery of building tension and release across extended sets showed me how powerful patience can be.
John Digweed’s technical precision and seamless programming have been particularly influential. Watching him read a room and respond in real-time while still maintaining a coherent musical journey taught me that the best DJs are both present in the moment and thinking several tracks ahead.
Behrouz brought home the importance of warmth and soul in electronic music. His organic approach and the way he weave together diverse influences while maintaining a distinct sound identity has inspired me to stay true to my musical roots while pushing forward.
The biggest lesson from all of them has been consistency and longevity – how to evolve while maintaining your artistic core. These artists have sustained decades-long careers by respecting their audiences, continuously refining their craft, and balancing innovation with the elements that made people connect with their music in the first place.
Your releases have landed on respected labels like UV Noir, Juicebox Music, and Schallmauer. What drew you to these labels, and how do you decide where your music feels most at home?
The relationship between an artist and label is incredibly important – it’s about finding homes where your music is understood and championed. My journey with labels has followed two distinct paths: collaborative releases and solo productions, each opening different doors in the industry.
My work with UV Noir and Juicebox Music came through my collaborative relationship with Redspace. His established connections with these labels opened doors, and they warmly welcomed our collaborations. I’m tremendously grateful for these opportunities, as both labels have incredible legacies in the progressive scene that I’ve admired for years.
My solo productions have found homes on several wonderful labels. Schallmauer caught my attention with their consistent quality and distinctive aesthetic that balances musicality with dancefloor effectiveness. My recent EP with them – “It’s Drippy” and “What is Left” – represents some of my more recent solo productions where I’ve been growing in my melodic development, and they immediately understood the vision.
Big Bells Digital, White Soho, and Future Avenue have also been supportive homes for my solo releases. Each of these labels has a unique sound signature that resonates with different aspects of my production style. Future Avenue, for instance, was the perfect home for my Midnight Dive EP, as they understand music that exists in that sweet spot between introspection and movement.
When deciding where to send music, I consider not just the sound signature of the label but the community they’ve built. I ask myself: “Will this music resonate with their audience? Does this track feel at home in their catalog?” The right label partnership amplifies not just the reach of the music but its intended emotional impact.
HouseCall gives you a platform to dive deep into the lives and music of fellow artists. How has hosting this podcast shaped your perspective on the industry, and what’s one memorable conversation that left a lasting impact on you?
Launching HouseCall has been a lot of fun for me. As DJs and producers, we’re often working in isolation or interacting only briefly at shows. The podcast creates space for deeper conversations about craft, creativity, challenges, and the human stories behind the music.
It’s also been synchronistic and powerful. One particularly memorable conversation was with my friend D:Fuse (Dustin Fuselier) and we talked about his ongoing recovery and his latest solo artist album. He passed away less than 30 days after our conversation, and I am so thankful we were able to reconnect. Life can be unexpected! Also, these kinds of authentic exchanges remind me that we’re all navigating similar creative struggles and triumphs, regardless of where we are in our careers.
The podcast has given me a much broader perspective on the industry. When you’re focused on your own career, it’s easy to develop tunnel vision. Hearing diverse approaches to production, touring, mental health, and business has expanded my thinking about what’s possible and the many different paths to sustaining a life in music.
It’s also strengthened my connection to the community. There’s something powerful about creating a platform that elevates others’ voices and stories. Many listeners have reached out to share how specific episodes resonated with them during challenging times or provided the inspiration they needed to push forward with their own music.
You’ve been a staple of the US Midwest progressive scene for years. How has the scene evolved over time, and what excites you most about where it’s headed?
The Midwest will always be my “hometown” even though I have now lived in California for two decades. The Midwest progressive scene has undergone fascinating transformations since I first became involved. In the early 2000s, Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago, and Columbus had thriving scenes with dedicated venues and regular nights that drew impressive talent. There was this beautiful raw energy – people discovering this sound for the first time and forming tight-knit communities around it.
Through the mid-2000s, we saw the scene expand with more dedicated festivals and larger events. It was exciting to witness this growth, but there were challenges too as the commercial aspects of EDM began to influence programming and venues.
What I find most exciting now is the renaissance we’re experiencing. After some leaner years, there’s a renewed appreciation for house that goes deeper than trends. Collectives like FUSE in San Francisco and similar groups like Run614 in Ohio and others throughout the Midwest are creating intimate experiences that honor the journey aspect of the music rather than just chasing drops or just recognizable names.
Technology has both challenged and enhanced the scene. Streaming has made music more accessible, but it’s also shortened attention spans. That said, I’m encouraged by the younger generation discovering the immersive experience of house – they’re seeking something more substantial than algorithmic playlists.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the cross-pollination happening between progressive house and adjacent genres. There’s less concern about rigid genre boundaries and more focus on emotional impact and musical quality. The Midwest has always had a certain authenticity and lack of pretension that makes it fertile ground for this kind of musical exploration.
As a classically trained musician turned electronic artist, how has your classical background influenced your approach to production and DJing, especially in crafting the emotional depth of your tracks?
My classical training has been foundational to my approach to electronic music in ways that continue to surprise me. The most obvious influence is in melody and harmony – understanding chord progressions and voice leading helps create those emotional moments that elevate a track from functional to memorable.
Piano training instilled an appreciation for dynamics and space. In classical music, the silences and breaths between notes are just as important as the notes themselves. This translates directly to how I approach arrangement in electronic music – knowing when to pull elements back can be more powerful than adding another layer.
The discipline of classical practice also prepared me for the technical aspects of production. Learning a Chopin étude requires breaking down complex passages into manageable segments, practicing them slowly, and gradually building speed and fluency. Production follows a similar process – mastering individual elements before bringing them together into a cohesive whole.
Perhaps most importantly, classical music taught me to think in terms of emotional narratives. When I played piano recitals, each piece needed to convey specific feelings and take the listener on a journey. This storytelling approach directly influences how I structure my tracks and sets, creating an arc that resonates emotionally rather than just stringing together cool sounds.
That said, electronic music has also liberated me from some of the constraints of classical training. There’s a freedom to experiment with sound design and structure that traditional classical music doesn’t always encourage. Finding the balance between technical precision and creative exploration has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.
Thanks for sharing your inspiring interview with Adrian Danila on Multifamily Chronicles! Where did you film this, and what’s the story behind all those records behind you? Also, how did you navigate the challenges of leaving corporate life to launch your consulting firm while reigniting your music career?
That interview was filmed in my home studio, and yes, those records have quite a story! The collection behind me represents some of my favorites in my arsenal – a collection I’ve been building since 2000. Each record marks a different chapter in my journey through music, from the first progressive house compilations I discovered to white labels from artists who became friends and mentors.
Leaving corporate life to launch PMx Partners while revitalizing my music career was definitely a leap of faith. The biggest challenge was psychological – shedding the security of a predictable path for something more aligned with my passions but less certain. I approached it methodically, building my consulting practice first to create stability, then gradually reintegrating music production as my schedule allowed.
The interesting discovery was how complementary these pursuits became. The analytical thinking I developed in corporate roles enhanced my approach to music production, while the creativity and risk-taking of music informed my consulting work. Many of my clients appreciate that I bring a different perspective from the typical consultant because of my artistic background.
What made the transition successful was recognizing that I didn’t have to choose just one path. Our culture often pushes us to specialize and identify with a single profession, but embracing the multiplicity of my interests has made me more effective in both worlds. Adrian really drew that out in our conversation – how seemingly disparate pursuits can create a unique value proposition when thoughtfully integrated.
Having performed at iconic venues like Moda Nightclub and Amnesia Columbus, and touring with D:Fuse, how have these experiences shaped your musical style and the way you connect with your audience?
These experiences were formative in developing my musical identity and approach to connecting with audiences. Each venue has its own energy and crowd, requiring different techniques to build and maintain that special connection.
Moda Nightclub was huge, had an amazing Phazon Sound System (which spoiled me frankly) and which taught me the importance of reading a room closely and building trust with a dedicated community. Playing regularly there allowed me to experiment and take risks, knowing the audience was there for the journey rather than just recognizable tracks.
Amnesia Columbus had a fun, more diverse crowd that challenged me to balance accessibility with artistic integrity. I learned how to bring people into deeper sounds by creating bridges from the familiar to the unexpected – a skill that shapes my productions today.
Touring with D:Fuse was particularly educational. Watching him adapt his approach to different environments while maintaining his signature sound showed me the importance of versatility without compromise. He was a master at creating those magical moments where the entire room feels connected through sound.
What all these experiences taught me about connecting with audiences is that authenticity resonates more than perfection. When I’m genuinely moved by the music I’m playing and fully present in that moment, it creates a contagious energy. The technical aspects matter, of course, but that emotional current is what people remember.
These formative experiences continue to influence how I structure both my productions and sets – building in those moments of tension and release, creating space for connection, and always honoring the emotional core of the music.
When you found out you were going to release a mix on Balance Selections, what was your process for building the setlist? And once you finished blending it all together, how did you know it was ready for release?
When I found out about the Balance opportunity, I was simultaneously excited and intimidated – their mixes have been soundtracks to so many important moments in my life. My process began with deep reflection about what story I wanted to tell through the mix.
I spent several weeks curating a pool of about 75 tracks that represented different facets of my sound – from deeper, introspective moments to more driving, energetic sections. This included unreleased material of my own that I wanted to showcase alongside tracks from artists I admire. It was also hard to put my own music in the set as I am still battling “are they good enough” … and frankly, they probably aren’t yet but I keep pressing forward.
The actual mixing process was methodical yet intuitive. I created rough outlines for three different journeys, each with a distinct emotional arc, then began the detailed work of crafting transitions. Some connections were immediately obvious, while others required experimentation with key mixing, layering, and effects to create seamless movement between worlds.
The version I ultimately chose wasn’t technically flawless, but it had a certain magic – those moments where transitions felt inevitable rather than constructed. I knew it was ready when I could listen through the entire mix and feel fully transported, forgetting that I was the one who created it. That’s always been my benchmark: when the technical aspects disappear and only the journey remains.
What hardware and software are you using to produce your music? Also, how important are headphones in your process and which ones do you use?
My production setup has evolved significantly as I’ve deepened my commitment to making music. Currently, I’m running Ableton on a high-performance Windows laptop that I’ve optimized specifically for audio work.
For controllers and instruments, I use a ROLI Seaboard Rise, which I love for its expressive capabilities – the way you can add dimension to notes through pressure, slides, and glides adds so much organic feeling to electronic productions. I also incorporate my KORG piano when I want to capture more traditional piano passages or work out melodic ideas.
I primarily use Audio-Technica headphones for production work because of their neutral frequency response and comfort during long sessions. When I’m finalizing mixes, I switch between several different headphones, studio monitors, speakers and car stereos to ensure the sound translates well across different listening environments.
For DJing, I recently upgraded to a Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3 from my trusty 2012 XDJ-AERO. I still keep my original Technics SL-1200 with a Pioneer DJM-600 mixer – there’s something about the physicality of vinyl that keeps you connected to the roots of the music. These days, I split my time between live sets and studio work, but vinyl and CDJs still feel like home to me.
I’m not sure if you’ve heard, but Paul Oakenfold is selling his record collection. Can you imagine having a record from his collection in yours at home? How many records do you have, and how often do you add to your collection?
The news about Paul Oakenfold auctioning 150 items from his collection definitely caught my attention! Having a record from this carefully curated selection would be incredible – these aren’t just pieces of vinyl but artifacts of dance music history. Many of those records likely shaped moments that influenced my own journey into this world.
I can’t even compare my collection to someone like Oakenfold’s, but I do have some gems from other producers that I treasure. My collection includes about 2500 records that I’ve gathered over the years, each with its own story and significance.
What fascinates me about vinyl collections like his is how they tell the story of not just an individual career but an entire movement. Each record carries the fingerprints and energy of every dancefloor where it was played.
I think of my own collection not just in terms of monetary value, but as a legacy that I hope to leave for my daughter someday. At the very least, these records will be hers to enjoy and think of her mama. There’s something powerful about that continuity – the thought that these physical artifacts of sound that have meant so much to me might someday bring her connection, joy, or inspiration.
What can your fans expect when they come to see you perform live? Any special moments or surprises during your sets?
When people come to see me perform, they can expect a journey rather than just a series of tracks. I approach each set with careful consideration of the venue, time slot, and audience, but always with the intention of creating something immersive and emotionally resonant.
I love to begin sets by establishing a foundation – usually something deeper that sets the mood and creates space for what’s to come. From there, I build patiently, allowing moments to breathe and develop naturally. There’s always a narrative arc, with careful attention to the energy flow throughout.
One thing that’s unique about my sets is the balance of familiar elements with unexpected turns. I might drop in a cleverly reworked classic at just the right moment or showcase unreleased material that connects in surprising ways to established tracks. These moments of recognition mixed with discovery create those special dance floor experiences.
Ultimately, I want people to leave feeling like they’ve experienced something authentic and meaningful – not just heard some tracks but been part of something greater than themselves.
You’ve shared the stage with legends, worked with some of the industry’s best, and are producing your own music, which I absolutely love. Who inspires you and where do you find inspiration for your next release?
I find inspiration from someone new literally every week! The original inspirations have always been the pioneers who shaped the progressive sound – Sasha, Digweed, Tiësto, Oakenfold, Deep Dish, Jimmy Van M, Darren Emerson, Danny Howells, Anthony Pappa, Dave Seaman. Their approach to creating musical narratives rather than just stringing together tracks continues to inform how I think about production and DJing.
Currently, I’m drawn to a diverse range of contemporary artists who are pushing boundaries in different ways. Ranj Kaler, Yohai Mor, Bud Cahill, VORA, Jon Towell, Solis (US), Halishan, Redspace (of course), Sons of Maria, Rebel of Sleep, Pinkowitz, and so many more keep me inspired with their innovations and unique sonic signatures.
Beyond the electronic world, film scores have been increasingly influential in my production approach. Composers like Hans Zimmer and Ólafur Arnalds understand how to create emotional landscapes that evolve over time – a quality I strive to capture in my own music. Classical influences remain important too, particularly composers like Debussy and Chopin who understood how to create emotional depth through relatively simple patterns.
Outside of music, I find tremendous inspiration in natural environments – particularly water. Something about the movement of waves and the immersive quality of being near water seems to align with how I experience music. Many of my track ideas have come during walks along the California coast or time spent near the Great Lakes in Michigan where I grew up.
Emotional experiences – both challenging and joyful – provide the raw material for what I want to express through music. For my next releases, I’m drawing inspiration from the concept of resilience – how we navigate difficult transitions and find beauty in unexpected places. There’s a certain tension between melancholy and hope that I’m exploring in my current productions.
I also find tremendous inspiration in the community around this music – conversations with fellow artists, experiencing live performances, and connecting with listeners who share how certain tracks resonated with them during important moments in their lives.
Your Midnight Dive EP was recently released on Future Avenue. What themes or stories were you aiming to convey through this project?
The Midnight Dive EP was my first solo endeavor of three songs and emerged from a period of intense creative exploration and personal reflection. The title track was inspired by the concept of diving beneath the surface – both literally and metaphorically. I’m fascinated by the threshold between the known and unknown, and how we gather courage to move beyond our comfortable depths.
Musically, I wanted to create something that captured that moment of suspension – the weightlessness and altered perception that comes with being fully immersed. The arpeggiated elements that float throughout the track represent that sensation of being surrounded by something larger than yourself, while the driving bass provides the forward momentum that carries you through the experience.
Working with Future Avenue felt perfect for this release because they understand music that exists in that sweet spot between introspection and movement. They’ve cultivated a catalog that honors the emotional dimensions of dance music without sacrificing its functionality – exactly the balance I strive for in my own work.
You currently have two releases in the Beatport Top 100 Progressive House chart. Congratulations! That’s an incredible achievement. What does this milestone mean to you as a producer, and how do you see it influencing your momentum this spring?
Having two tracks simultaneously in the Top 100 Progressive House on Beatport is incredibly affirming, especially as someone who came to production later after years of DJing. It’s validation that the sounds and emotions I’m trying to convey are resonating with listeners and DJs.
While chart recognition is wonderful, I try not to obsess over rankings. My primary focus remains on the creative process and artistic growth. That said, I do pay attention to how releases perform because it provides valuable feedback about which elements of my sound are connecting most strongly with audiences.
This momentum feels like an organic evolution rather than a sudden shift. Each release has built upon the previous one, expanding my range as a producer while maintaining that core emotional signature. The timing feels significant as we head into spring – traditionally a season of renewal and expansion in the dance music calendar with festival season approaching.
What’s most meaningful about these chart placements is the thought of my music being incorporated into other DJs’ sets around the world. The idea that something created in my studio might become part of someone else’s transformative dance floor moment – that’s the true reward.
The progressive house scene has evolved over the years. How do you see your music fitting into the current landscape, and where do you envision it heading?
The progressive house scene has undergone fascinating transformations since I first fell in love with it. In the early 2000s, it was characterized by those long, hypnotic journeys pioneered by artists like Sasha, Digweed, and Hernán Cattáneo – sets that take time to fully unfold a musical idea.
As EDM exploded in popularity, much of what was labeled “progressive” shifted toward bigger drops and more immediate payoffs. While this introduced many new listeners to electronic music, something of the patience and subtlety was temporarily lost. What excites me about the current landscape is how the pendulum has swung back toward substance and emotional depth.
I see my music as part of this return to progressive’s roots while incorporating modern production techniques and influences. I’m drawn to creating tracks that reward repeated listening – pieces with emotional nuance that might reveal different dimensions depending on when and how they’re experienced.
Looking forward, I’m excited about the cross-pollination happening between progressive house and adjacent genres. The boundaries between progressive, melodic techno, and even certain ambient music have become increasingly fluid. This feels healthy – less concern about rigid genre classifications and more focus on creating meaningful sonic experiences.
What won’t change is the genre’s emphasis on journey and narrative. Even as sounds evolve, that core quality of progressive house – its ability to transport listeners through carefully crafted emotional landscapes – remains its defining characteristic. That’s the tradition I hope to honor and extend through my own contributions to the genre.
As someone who has navigated personal hardships and found solace in music, what advice would you give to aspiring artists facing challenges in their own journeys?
The most important advice I can offer is to anchor yourself in your unique connection to music rather than external validation or success metrics. When you’re navigating personal hardships, this authentic connection becomes both compass and shelter.
From my own experience, I’ve found that music creation itself can be therapeutic – a way to process and transform difficult emotions rather than just escape them. Some of my most meaningful productions emerged from periods of struggle, not despite them but because of how those experiences deepened my relationship with music.
Practically speaking, build sustainable routines that honor both your creative needs and your wellbeing. Small, consistent steps forward are more valuable than sporadic bursts followed by burnout. This might mean shorter but more regular studio sessions that become a dependable part of your life rhythm.
Find your community – people who genuinely understand and support your artistic vision. This doesn’t have to be a large group, but having even a few trusted ears and hearts can make all the difference when challenges arise. My closest music friends have been essential anchors during difficult times.
Finally, remember that your worth is not determined by your output or recognition. Some periods naturally yield less visible productivity as you’re processing, learning, or simply gathering new experiences to inform your art. Trust these fallow periods as part of the creative cycle rather than fighting against them.
Music is a long game, and resilience comes from loving the process itself – finding joy in the creation, connection, and growth regardless of the external outcomes.
Where is the best place to learn more about you and your music? Do you have a newsletter we can sign up for, or should we just follow you on social media and streaming platforms?
The best way to keep up with my music and upcoming projects is through my Linktree.
For more frequent updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into my production process, Instagram is where I’m most active. I often share snippets of works in progress and insights into my creative approach.
My SoundCloud page hosts all my releases, mixes, and HouseCall podcast episodes, making it a great one-stop resource if you want to dive deeper into my sound. Beatport and Spotify are also kept current with all official releases.
For more in-depth conversations and industry discussions, the HouseCall podcast is available on YouTube. Each episode features extended conversations with artists and industry figures about their journeys and creative processes.
I genuinely appreciate connection with listeners and fellow music lovers, so don’t hesitate to reach out through any of these channels!
Thanks for doing this, Shell! Wow, that was such a fun interview for me. We’ve covered a lot today, but before we wrap up, I always give the artist the last word. Go.
First, thank you for such thoughtful questions that really allowed me to share the deeper dimensions of this journey. What continues to move me most about electronic music, particularly progressive house, is its unique ability to create spaces where people from all backgrounds can connect through shared emotional experience. In a world that often feels increasingly divided, those moments of collective resonance on the dance floor feel more important than ever.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue developing both my production voice and the HouseCall platform as a space for meaningful conversation about music and creativity. There’s something powerful about balancing the solitary nature of studio work with the community-building aspects of performance and conversation.
If there’s one thing I hope people take from my music, it’s permission to feel the full spectrum of emotions – to embrace both light and shadow as essential parts of a complete human experience. That integration of seemingly opposing forces is what progressive house has always represented to me, and what I hope to continue exploring through my contributions to this extraordinary musical tradition.
For more information about Shell Robinson, go to:
Instagram | Beatport | SoundCloud | Spotify | X | YouTube
