NOEL is a DJ, producer, and artist whose sound reflects a lifelong blend of Louisiana roots and West Coast influence.
Starting out in his family’s church band, NOEL has spent over 20 years evolving his craft—moving from soundboards and trumpet practice to high-profile sets alongside artists like The Chainsmokers and Kaskade. His music fuses gospel, jazz, soul, and house into something emotionally grounded and globally conscious. In this Q&A, NOEL talks about his journey through the music industry, key moments that shaped his path, and how working with MN2S Label Services is helping power the next chapter of his career.
How did you get into music? What is your musical background?
At a very young age, I was involved in music with my family church band. My three younger brothers and I all played different instruments. When I was younger, I played and/or practiced playing a few different instruments, such as the trumpet. I also began working on the soundboard for my family band at the age of 13. Later, I started practicing the art of Doing at the age of 15. From there, I learned music theory and practiced writing music—songs with the piano. I continued to DJ, and at around the age of 26, I started my professional DJ career. I have been doing shows and performances ever since. Started producing about 11 years ago. I’m in love with DJing and producing.
Your music as NOEL reflects both Southern roots and West Coast influences. How do you balance those two identities in your sound?
With my family being from the U.S. southern state of Louisiana, those roots of hospitality, love, grassroots music, jazz, zydeco, soul, gospel, and even rock have made an impact on me musically. Growing up on the West Coast has a vastly different sound but a very similar vibe. By digging into my origins personally and musically, balancing these two identities has become easier and easier throughout the years.
After more than 20 years performing, how has your creative process evolved?
My creative process is continually evolving. Learning new technology, trying new sound projects, working and collaborating with different artists—it is impossible not to evolve as an artist. My creative process is now really focused on how my process will make an impact on the world. Finding ways to streamline the process also has evolved for me.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly shaped your artistic direction as NOEL?
One pivotal moment was when my parents finally came to see me play at this large club called FLUXX. Their level of understanding of what I was doing shaped my artist direction. Second moment for me was when I opened for Chainsmokers on one occasion and then opened for Kaskade on another.
Are there any modern artists or genres that you’re currently drawing inspiration from?
There are too many to name!
What are your plans for the rest of the year and beyond?
Global takeover. I will perform globally as an artist, DJ, producer, and motivational speaker.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of entering the music industry?
Don’t quit! Keep going and seeking opportunities to make your dream come true.
What have you enjoyed about working with MN2S?
What I have enjoyed most is the belief that they ultimately have the artist’s career and success at the forefront of their platform.