Meet Cortlin Long | DJ & Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cortlin Long and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cortlin, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I had originally wanted to learn more about mixing music so I could basically make my own “mixtapes” comprised of my favorite songs. My friend at the time who had introduced me to the software and equipment started to expand my horizons and understanding of music. I didn’t grow up with a musical background. I had never played an instrument outside of a classroom recorder. My college education was based around a BoFA (Bachelor’s of Fine Art).

After working with my friend for sometime and him teaching me what he knew about music it began to become less of a hobby and more of a part-time job. I have always love music, as most of us do, but EDM has been my favorite for as long as I can remember. Once I was old enough to start seeing live music it captivated me. As I learned more about music and production I started to want to be the performer on stage. Sharing a vibe that came from your soul and having likeminded people dance and enjoy life side by side. That is the motivation behind why I have pursued an artist/creative career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m still working full time as an assistant manager at a hydroponic grow shop. I take all of my work very seriously. My musical “career” is unfortunately a “part-time” job at the moment. We all have bills to pay and food to put on the table. It goes without saying that the software, VST’s, speakers, computers, keyboards, etc. All these things (especially high quality products) are not cheap.

I love plants and teaching people about how to grow them. I don’t hate my job, but sometimes following your passions means doing something else you aren’t as passionate about to finance the things you are. At least until you have enough success and traction that your passion finances itself. A dream that all artistic and independent people share. That can take time as you learn, grow, and make mistakes. Patience is a skill. Dedication is a skill. Ones that are strengthened by our self discipline. Self discipline is a muscle that must be used often to stay strong. I for one am excited for what the future holds for all people who holdfast to their passions and persevere to see them to completion.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Mon- Start the week off by going to Pikes Peak. Classic, beautiful view, and an easy hike. After words, dinner at Uri Sushi & Grill off Fountain.

Tue- Garden of the Gods followed by Cheba Hut off Chestnut for lunch. End the day by hitting Torchy’s Tacos downtown for taco Tuesday and margaritas.

Wed- Breakfast at Biscuits and Company on Tejon . Spend most of the day window shopping around downtown. Cap the day with dinner at MacKenzie’s Chop House on Tejon.

Thur- Head to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Dinner at Prime25 on Tejon.

Fri- Check out the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. In the evening catch a show at Sunshine Studios or Black Sheep.

Sat- Spent the day in Manitou hitting hot springs. Followed by dinner at Crystal Park Cantina on Crystal Park Rd

Sun- See the Cave Dwellings and Cave of the Winds. Close out at Manitou Brewing Company off Manitou Ave

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would never have started on this journey if it wasn’t for the friendship and mentoring of one of my best friends Daniel D. He not only showed me how to use the software and equipment, but we worked together as a duo to expand both our understandings of music and brotherhood.

Another huge mentor and leader to not only me, but many talented people in Colorado, is Mark G. He runs our collective Real Lit Music. Without him spearheading events and providing guidance many of us would still be sitting in our studios waiting for a gig that might never come.

A similar friend and event organizer Jenae helped support me, find venues, and push me to pursue my passions.

The obvious people are my mom, step dad, brother, and sister. As well as all of my friends. They try to make it to every show and provide words of support.

Can’t not mention every single person who listens to my mixes, follows my socials, bumps my originals, and comes out to live shows. Without them none of this happens. I love everyone mentioned and apologize if you weren’t mentioned specifically. I could name people all day. Y’alls support means the world to me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djcouchparty/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Couchpartymusic

Other: https://soundcloud.com/couchpartymusic

Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/memorandum_media/