Creative Highlights | Brent Cox

Tell us a little about who you are and what kind of creative work you do

I have been a professional DJ for 14 years, I have played at thousands of weddings, corporate events, nightclubs, fashion shows and even for an episode of The Bachelor and Khloe Kardashian when she visited Sydney for the launch of the “Kardashian Kollection”

I’m also a technical podcast producer, offering a range of services from audio and video editing, mix/sound engineering and recording support to consulting and advice for those just starting out.

Where do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by everything. I hear a sound and think “what a sample!”. I use voice memos on my phone to record mostly while bushwalking. I created a song called Bebis Djou in 2021 which prominently features the distinctive whistle of the Eastern Birds.

Are there any special processes, techniques or tools you use to make your creative work?

As mentioned above; I love sampling and playing with audio to get new results using Ableton Live. I use it to carefully organize DJ mixes, edit existing songs and create new ones. I’ve also started exploring generative AI and it’s amazingly impressive!

What’s a creative project you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of? Why? What creative project are you currently working on?

My first officially released production; a song called Shooter (under my stage name Zabier). I’m proud of him for attracting the attention of a UK record label and a number of artists who chose to remix him from the wide variety of songs on offer.

Most recently I consulted and improved the audio quality on the first episode of a domestic violence podcast that hopes to gain ground.

What is your favorite part of working as an artist/creative?

Lifestyle and freedom. After a childhood of waking up early 7 days a week for school, sports, etc, it was really nice to be able to stay up until all hours being creative and then sleep in the next day and not rush to get ready to start my day (most of the time).

What is the most difficult part of working as an artist/creative?

They face procrastination and an unpredictable routine. I experience a funny but frustrating phenomenon where if I try to take advantage of a quiet day, I end up hearing from everyone at once, but if I anticipate getting questions, I end up sitting all day.

Do you have any top advice for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?

There are a lot of free resources thanks to the internet and cell phones. Look for initiatives, incentives, etc. funded by your local council and government to help you.

We always love recommendations! What are some other local artists we should check out?

Any of the artists featured in the Creative Spotlight. Support your local artists like you would any other local business because that’s who we are!