Joe Stone is the alter ego of Dutch DJ Maurice Oude Booyink, who’s been working as a DJ/producer for years. making waves with a full fledged, contemporary though 90s styled house sound. But while the name is new to the scene, the background of this DJ/productional act already speaks volumes, ranging from classical music training to producing timeless house tunes and remixes for some of the biggest names out there. He started his musical career at an early age, playing keys at the age of seven, and it didn’t take him long to create new, original melodies. Growing up on a diet of funk and soul music, he masters these styles in his first band at the age of sixteen, followed by producing his first dance records.
You are a Dutch DJ, when did you realize that your music started to grow internationally and how does it feel?
It started with support from big DJs like Oliver Heldens, The Magician and Martin Solveig. It circulated on the internet for three months and people discussed who it could be. Later it got picked up by the masses. Firebeatz also made their own twist of ‘The Party’ which has turned into an official remix! That version got used by Martin Garrix and Calvin Harris. The support on ‘The Party’ is crazy and it feels amazing! Like your work is being recognized.
What is your favorite kind of music? Who is your hero?
Well, that would be house music because it’s so versatile. My heroes would be Armand van Helden, Daft Punk and Michael Jackson.
What do you think of house music being produced nowadays in general? Do you see some other talents coming up?
It all goes pretty fast. Information goes really fast. That’s also why you see a lot of really talented young DJ/producers come up. To name a few, I’d say Curbi, Lucas & Steve and Croatia Squad are the ones to watch right now.
Do you notice the fans rolling in on your socials or is it not so bad?
Well, I do get a lot of messages and people asking for advice. It’s certainly not bad and I try to take time to answer where I can. Although I don’t think I’m the best producer or anything for that matter. But when your track is in the charts, people want to know your opinion. I still keep learning everyday.
You just released your new single ‘Is It Really Love’ together with Cr3on. How did you create this?
Cr3on came with the idea of using the voice sample in the track. We got together and finished the track. I’m very happy with the result.
What does this record say about your musical evolution as an artist?
It has been a musical journey since my hit track ‘The Party’ ft. Montell Jordan. In the meantime I tried some different styles as well, but deep house will always be the foundation for me as an artist. I hope this record proves that.
The track is featured on Spinnin’s New Dance Music Friday playlist. How important is Spotify to you?
I can say that Spotify is very important for me as an artist. It’s the go-to place for most people to stream high quality music. And I think playlists are very appealing for people to discover new music.
Which recently released dance tracks should definitely be added to New Dance Music Friday?
These tracks should definitely be added;
Joe Stone vs Cr3on – ‘Is It Really Love’
Sam Feldt ft Sam Martin – ‘Carry Me Home’ (Joe Stone Remix)
Just Kiddin – ‘Indiana’
Disciples – ’48HRS’
Catchment – ‘You Got It’
Jack Wins – ‘Freewheelin’
Aevion – ‘Mystery Island’
Provenzano, The Cube Guys – ‘Babele’