Toronto producer Reagan Grey delivers soulful house energy with her Kinetic EP on WOLF Music.
Few artists capture the emotional depth of house music quite like Reagan Grey. The Toronto based producer has spent years quietly refining a sound rooted in deep musicality, soulful grooves and classic dancefloor sensibilities. Drawing influence from the timeless traditions of New York, Chicago and Detroit house, Grey has built a catalogue that speaks as much to the heart as it does to the club.
Her latest release, the Kinetic EP, lands on the revered UK imprint WOLF Music and marks another strong chapter in her journey. The vinyl focused release blends uplifting house rhythms with rich musical textures, while collaborations with vocalist Christie Nelson and keyboardist Finn Rees add further depth and character.
With a background that stretches back to the golden era of 90s club culture and a production career spanning more than two decades, Grey brings both experience and passion to every record she makes. Her music reflects a deep love for the craft, but also a strong sense of purpose. Whether it is creating soulful dancefloor moments or encouraging the next generation of artists, she continues to push forward with a clear creative vision.
We caught up with Reagan to talk about her roots in house music, the creative process behind her productions, and the story behind the new Kinetic EP.
1) Welcome Reagan, can you start by telling us where in the world are you right now?
Thank you! I’m in Toronto, Canada.2) Let’s go back, way back, back into time. How did your involvement with music start?
I grew up in a house with lots of music, my dad had a vinyl collection, I took piano lessons as a kid. But my interest really picked up when I was a teenager. I bought records every week. Clubbing in the 90’s was life altering, it was a very special time. From that point on music was always central in my life, and I eventually started producing in my 20’s.3) Why house music? What draws you to the 4/4 beat?
It’s the genre I’m most drawn to, and return to over and over again. It’s also stylistically vast, from minimal and bleepy, to soulful with complex musical arrangements. I love many types of music, but house is the only genre I can listen to in almost any setting and at any time. I can’t say that about any other genre.4) We’ve been digging through your catalogue. Your tracks on Local Talk, a favourite label of ours, are really impressive. Tell us about your creative process when making tracks?
I typically start with an intention and develop it from there. I have templates with all my favourite drum kits and synths ready to play via sampler. It lets me hit the ground running. A lot of the work is technical, preparing for those magical moments when the sky opens up and ideas flow. Then it’s on to mixing and engineering, which is both technical and creative.5) We’ve seen on your socials you like to express and show your technical prowess on DAWs. Is this something you feel you need to do or is it just to express and educate your skillset?
I’ve always preferred to be behind the scenes, but recently decided it was time to get over my fear of being on screen and put myself out there for the sake of representation. I’m not a DJ or performer, but I want to show others, especially women and girls, that I’m here and doing this work. If I can do it, so can you.My intention is to put something positive out in the world, and I hope it will create a spark in someone else wanting to learn. I love watching process videos so that seemed like a good place to start. The aesthetic is personal and parallels the way I make music. Lots of analog touches and many layers.
6) What other DJ producers right now are impacting your sound or influencing what you are producing?
I’m listening to Detroit producers like Patrice Scott and Delano Smith. That city has such a strong legacy of deep and soulful house.7) With over 15 years in and around the scene, how do you feel the electronic music community is doing engaging with new talent? How can new artists get their foot in the door with labels?
I think new talent is critical, and if they’re not embraced they’ll just start their own thing, which is part of the cycle. As with any goal, if you put in the work and keep hammering away, you’ll eventually get there.Social media is a helpful tool, but music is still the most important thing to spend your time on. Build connections, and keep reaching out to people you want to work with. If you get a no, then find another way. Things happen quickly for some, and for others it takes much longer. Either way it’s important to be clear on your values as an artist.
8) Your new EP on WOLF. How did that come about and what is your favourite track from the EP?
I’ve wanted to work with WOLF for ages, and the stars were aligned for this particular project. The tracks with Christie and Finn are highlights. I love collaborating with others, and value the work of vocalists and musicians. Art takes time. That distinction feels especially important now.9) What’s next for Reagan? Summer is coming fast, anything you can share?
I’m working with two new singers on a very special project. I’m really excited about it!10) Thanks for taking a minute out to speak to us, good luck with the EP.
Thank you so much!
Pre order Reagan Grey’s ‘Kinetic’ in WOLF Music via Juno here.
