At just 13 years old, Allen Hulsey had a series of experiences that would define his path. On the first day, he watched a show featuring an acoustic fingerstyle guitarist. The next day, he was captivated by the film Back to the Future. And on the third day, he saw Jeff Beck perform “Drown in My Own Tears” on a BBC show. It was in that moment that he realized music and guitar in particular would be his lifelong pursuit.
Allen’s early exposure to music sparked a curiosity that blended natural talent with deep fascination. He was drawn to instruments, sounds, and melodies, developing a love for creating music that connects deeply with people. Those formative years laid the foundation for a career that would combine traditional techniques with innovative electronic music.
Discovering the House Music Scene
Allen always knew he wanted to combine electronics with music, but the turning point came in 2014. A friend invited him to perform every Tuesday during a summer residency at Xuma Beach in Bodrum, Turkey. It was here that Allen realized the potential of house music and the magic of live instruments on the dance floor.
Bringing live vocals and guitar into electronic music was not common, but Allen found a way to merge these elements seamlessly. This experience strengthened his belief that music could be both innovative and emotionally resonant, and it set the tone for his future work.
A Journey Across Continents
Throughout his career, Allen’s music has been shaped by experiences across the world. He has lived and performed in countries like Turkey, Germany, Mexico, and Bali, absorbing different cultures and musical styles. In Turkey, he immersed himself in traditional instruments such as the kanun, a Turkish harp, and the bağlama, a seven-stringed instrument. By combining these instruments with electronic elements, Allen developed a sound that is both unique and globally appealing.
This fusion of traditional and modern music forms allows Allen to create performances that are not just shows, but immersive experiences. His audiences are drawn not only to the rhythm but to the depth and emotion behind every note.
Overcoming Challenges Early in His Career
After graduating from Berklee College of Music, Allen moved to New York City, where he initially worked in a restaurant for six months. Realizing that this path did not fulfill his creative ambitions, he made a bold decision: he would focus solely on music. To support himself, he started performing in subway stations, turning public spaces into stages for his craft.
This period was both challenging and formative. Playing in the subway demanded resilience, discipline, and creativity, but it also gave Allen the opportunity to connect directly with people from all walks of life. This experience reinforced the importance of dedication, focus, and trusting his own artistic instincts.
Notable Achievements
One of Allen’s most significant achievements was composing music for a large scale permanent sculpture exhibit in California. The exhibit, featuring lights that respond to sound, required a score that could evoke emotion and enhance the visual experience. Allen’s compositions incorporated the kanun and fretless guitar, instruments that hold deep personal significance for him, creating a piece that resonated both visually and sonically.
This project exemplifies Allen’s philosophy: music is not just for listening but for feeling. By blending live instrumentation with innovative concepts, he creates art that leaves a lasting impact on audiences.
Current Work and Future Goals
Currently, Allen is focused on his first full length electronic album, Fables. The album’s release will begin with the single “Come Over Again” along with a remix. It will be launched on his record label ABAQ and will feature contributions from other emerging live electronic artists.
Fables represents more than just a collection of songs. It is a culmination of Allen’s vision to merge live performance, electronic music, and emotional storytelling. The album aligns with his long term goal of pushing the boundaries of house music while maintaining authenticity and originality.
Lessons Learned in Music
Over the years, Allen has learned that consistency and staying true to his vision are paramount. He believes that the real connection with listeners comes from authenticity, not trends. Every performance, composition, or collaboration is an opportunity to create something meaningful.
This lesson has shaped how Allen approaches his work with dedication, passion, and a willingness to explore new ideas. He emphasizes that lasting impact is often created in unexpected moments, encouraging artists to embrace every opportunity with focus and care.
Vision for the Industry
Allen hopes to continue developing the electronic music scene by introducing unique instruments and original sounds. He aims to infuse a rock and roll edge into house music, creating performances that are both exciting and deeply emotive. His vision is to inspire other musicians to experiment, innovate, and connect with audiences in new and meaningful ways.
He also wants to be remembered as an artist who stayed true to himself, pushed boundaries, and contributed to the growth of the music community. His goal is to leave a legacy of creativity, passion, and originality.
Advice to Emerging Artists
Reflecting on his own journey, Allen advises younger musicians to release their music without overthinking perfection. He believes that music is for both the artist and their true fans, who will appreciate the work even when the artist may not feel 100 percent confident. Confidence grows through experience, and connecting with listeners is more valuable than chasing unrealistic ideals of flawlessness.
Inspiring Others Through Music
Allen Hulsey’s journey is more than a story of talent. It is a story of dedication, exploration, and innovation. From his early inspiration at age 13 to performing across continents, he has shown that staying true to one’s artistic vision can lead to remarkable achievements.
Whether performing live, composing for art installations, or producing electronic music, Allen continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike. His work is a reminder that passion, persistence, and originality are the keys to leaving a meaningful impact in the music world.
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