JOHN SOUSA JR

 

 John Phillip Sousa jr, was born on December 23, 1974, in Upstate New York.

 

Music has always been a pivotal part of my life. From a tender age, I found myself engrossed in radio tunes, memorizing lyrics to all my favorite songs. Dance music, however, held a particular charm for me. Whether it was day or night, my walkman was constantly blaring rhythmic beats. At the age of 17, I ventured into the electrifying world of nightclubs. The dazzling light shows, voguish crowds, energetic vibes, and most importantly, the gleaming mirror balls radiated an allure that I couldn't resist. Dancing, losing myself in the rhythmic pulses, for hours at end, remains one of my most cherished memories.

 

Clubbing across New York City and Upstate N.Y. during the 1990s marked a memorable and vibrant phase of my life. Often after work, I'd find myself hitting the clubs three to four nights a week, a common occurrence for pretty much everyone in the scene.

 

The dream of creating my own dance tracks and making people euphoric by steering them into a frenzy on the dance floor always fluttered in the back of my mind.

 

My journey as a self-taught music producer began in 2001, evolving into a significant part of my identity and becoming a source of tremendous joy.

 

Additionally, the artist within me thrived from my school days. Painting held a special place in my heart, bringing immense joy and fulfillment. Oil paints on large canvases were my preferred medium, enabling me to experiment with abstract shapes, colors, and textures.

 

In high school, taking every art class available sharpened my technique and nurtured my unique style. Being inclined towards abstract art offered me liberating freedom—neither bound to replicate reality nor restricted by rules. My compositions typically began with a splash of color that laid the foundation for the rest of the piece.

 

Painting served as an escape, quieting my mind and aiding me in processing emotions and experiences creatively. As I stood before a blank canvas, the boundless possibilities ignited an exhilarating thrill within me. Art kept my spirit alive, infusing my life with fulfillment and meaning.

 

On the flip side, life threw a curveball at me when at 22 years old, I met with an unfortunate accident diving into shallow water. The incident severed my spinal cord, resulting in paralysis from my chest downwards. Holding the distinction of being a C5-C6 quadriplegic, I rely on a motorized wheelchair for mobility, being able to exert limited movement and feeling in my upper body only.

 

Despite the daily challenges posed by disability, I've learned to adapt and lead a full life, focusing more on my capabilities rather than limitations. My loving family and friends constitute a solid support system. My disability doesn't epitomize me—it merely serves as one facet of my identity. Pursuing my interests, goals, and dreams remains a priority. Through sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness, inspire others living with disabilities, and serve as a reminder that life can strip you of physical abilities, but never your spirit.

 

Now, I am an artist who creates music and digital art using my computer. Spending countless hours over the years, my diligence has given birth to albums and remixes that embody my passion for music. My workstation comprises a trackball mouse, a pair of studio monitors, and headphones. Music is not just a hobby—it forms an essential part of my identity, resonating deep within me.

 

Alongside my passion for music, I also dabble in visual arts. Using Adobe Photoshop, I create portrait retouches and other digital pieces. Leveraging technology as a tool for expression enables me to create unprecedented things. With my computer serving as my creative studio, I immerse myself in sound and visuals to breathe life into my ideas. My art equips me with joy and fosters a connection with others who appreciate creativity.