Interviews

Toronto-based producer Reagan Grey marks a sophisticated milestone in her career with the release of the Kinetic EP, a project that masterfully blends deep, soulful house with optimistic energy. Arriving on the esteemed WOLF Music label, this vinyl-focused release showcases Grey’s refined production alongside standout collaborations with Christie Nelson and Finn Rees.

Thanks for talking to us. Where are you this moment and how are you spending the day?

Thanks for having me! I'm in Toronto, it's early morning on the weekend. I'll spend a few hours working on music then hang out with my youngest son.

Where were you born? Where are you based now?

I was born in Winnipeg, grew up in Toronto, lived in Montreal for many years, and am currently back in Toronto.

What do you love most about where you are living? What keeps you where you are today?

Toronto is a world-class city with an incredible music and arts scene. My family moved this past summer, and we absolutely love our new neighbourhood. There are great restaurants, shops and lots of green space. We're very central but also have a calmer residential feel.

If money was no object, and you could choose anywhere in the world to live, where would that be and why?

It's a tie between New York and London. I love the energy and arts & culture you can only find in big cities. If money were no object, I’d also spend three months of the year on a tropical beach.

How long have you been making music? What was your first step as a musician?

I took piano lessons as a kid but resisted it. Music was always central in my life, as a listener, clubber, and then documentary filmmaker. I eventually started producing music about 20 years ago.

Are you a DJ too? What came first Djing or production or being an artist/musician?

I’m new to DJing and have played out a few times. I’ve always been a producer first. It has always been my first love and will continue to be my focus.

What kind of artists, DJs, genres were you into growing up?

I have a broad love of music but house was always dominant. The DJs that influenced me the most are Danny Tenaglia, Kerri Chandler, Masters at Work, MURK, Chez Damier and Ron Trent.

Who are the artists that you follow right now?

Honey Dijon, Cinthie, Delano Smith, Frits Wentink, Retromigration, Floorplan… There are so many!

What is the most recent record you purchased?

Patrice Scott 'My Desire’

If you could choose a few words to describe the vibe of Reagan Grey, what would they be?

Deep, soulful, melodic. Danceable, New York and Chicago influenced.

Talk to us about the new EP and the initial idea. When did you first approach this concept and what was your original intention?

The EP came together around ‘Not Giving Up’. Christie Nelson and I wrote it a few years ago but the arrangement didn’t fully click until last year. The core concept is about staying in motion, whether you’re in good times or bad, keep moving. I think this EP fully represents my sound and the different directions I like to explore.

What was most important for you to convey through these tracks?

It was important to convey a sense of joy and optimism. These tracks are meant to lift your spirits or make you move!

Do you feel that you were able to accomplish all of your intentions?

Yes, I don’t let music out into the world unless I feel it’s ready. I tend to create a mental list of things to address in a mix. Once I can listen through without any little things bothering me, I know it’s done.

What are you most proud of with this release?

I’m most proud of the collective talent that went into bringing this EP to life. From the features of Christie and Finn, to the label work of Stu and Matt at WOLF, the mastering, the promo, the artwork, all of it sets the bar very high. I’m grateful to be in such good company.

What was the most challenging part of bringing the release together?

The biggest challenge with any release, especially when it’s getting pressed to vinyl, is to get something to the finish line when there are many moving parts. But we made it happen.

Who are the other artists/musicians on this EP that you would like to shout out?

Christie Nelson & Finn Rees! Christie is featured on ‘Not Giving Up’. She’s an incredibly talented singer-songwriter I’ve worked with for years. Matt & Stu at WOLF set up the collaboration with Finn, and I’m so pleased with how the track turned out. I usually work with vocalists, so this was a first for me. Finn is a first-class artist and he got the vibe right away.

How did you get involved with Wolf Music.

I’ve been trying to get involved with them for years. I would say persistence on my part, and the right timing. I’m thrilled to be working with WOLF, it has been a really great experience.

What drives you to create music?

It’s a strong calling that comes in cycles. The creative process takes time and requires attention to detail, but when those divine moments strike, I feel connected to something bigger. It is very much a spiritual process.

What has been one of your favorite moments from the past year?

I recently started working with a youth program. Encouraging the next generation, especially young women, has been very rewarding. It's a joy to share knowledge with young people starting their journey in music.

Where do you find the most inspiration when it comes to discovering new music?

In the sets of DJs, and labels I follow.

Is there anything that you would like to tell us about you?

I’ve been doing this for a long time. Despite many challenges, I’m still here because ultimately, I do this for the love of music.

What can we hope to see next from Reagan Grey?

We’re at a crossroads in music with the rise of AI. I’m prioritizing vinyl releases and hope to have a few more. I have two projects in the works and will continue collaborating with singers and musicians. Nothing can compete with the joy of working with other people to build something organic, together.

Check out the latest release from Reagan Grey.