Stop Copying DJs: Layton Giordani & Parker Cohen on Creating Your Own Lane | EF EP 117

Think you need to follow someone else's blueprint to make it in dance music? This conversation with Layton Giordani and Parker Cohen, co-founder of Metatone, will completely change how you think about building a lasting career.

Fresh off his performance at ARC Music Festival, Layton rarely gives interviews - but he opened up about his journey from New York warehouse parties to global recognition. Alongside Parker Cohen, they reveal why the artists everyone wants to work with share one crucial trait: authenticity.

While most artists are trying to be the next John Summit or copy viral TikTok trends, Metatone has built their reputation by developing artists who stay true to themselves. Their approach? Treat artists like additional managers on their own projects and focus on entrepreneurial mindsets over follower counts.

Key Takeaways:

• How Output NYC's no-phone policy created the perfect training ground for real DJing skills

• The real reason behind launching MADMINDS label (hint: it's not just about release schedules)

• Why Parker looks for artists who can be "another manager on the project"

• How social media is a tool, not everything - and why authenticity beats algorithm chasing

• The psychology behind why people can "sniff out" fake artists immediately

• Why building your own path matters more than copying someone else's success

• How the European vs. American underground scenes shaped Layton's evolution

• The importance of learning to "warm up rooms" and create club chemistry

• Why timing and natural relationships lead to the best career opportunities

The Bottom Line: Stop trying to be the next someone else. The most successful artists in dance music today got there by being authentically themselves and treating their career like a business. Your path is your own - embrace it.

THE LINK - Chicago Music Nexus Pre-Party is LIVE!

Join us on November 21st, 10 PM - 2 AM at Loft 22 for the official CMN pre-party. Network with fellow attendees, panelists, and Chicago's music community before the main event.

DJ CONTEST: Submit your 20-30 minute mix by October 6th for a chance to win the opening slot, free CMN 2026 ticket, and more! Send mix + bio + tracklist to hello@chicagomusicnexus.com

Tickets: fourvenues.com/chicago-music-nexus-the-link
CMN Main Event: chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx