Meet SULU

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

Hi SULU, what matters most to you?
The first thing that comes to mind is authenticity. It may be a predictable answer from an artist, but it’s important. My biggest inspirations lean heavily into what makes them unique and I like to think I do the same. As a drummer, my decisions are driven solely by instinct, which applies to my other creative endeavors like photography, songwriting, graphic design, and things as small as picking out my clothes in the morning. I trust myself — my first idea is almost always the most original, and the one I end up going with. I’m an overanalytical person by nature, but art and music are where I can try to escape that and act out of passion and spontaneity first and refine it later.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think my variety of skills gives me an edge. I have many irons in the fire, but they’re all connected. One of my favorite parts of my creativity is my ability to be involved in all parts of the process of a musical release — seeing it through from beginning to end. I can write a song, record it, produce it, play drums on it, conceptualize the cover art, do the photoshoot, design promotional materials… I feel most in alignment when I’m working on a musical release in that way – obsessing over the visual and sonic identity of my collaborators, or myself. And I’m lucky to have many collaborators who trust me to be extremely involved like that.

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.
Oh, wow. There are so many. I guess it depends on what, dare I say, *vibe* you’re going for. Chateau Marmont is a quintessential LA experience, in my opinion. You don’t need to book a stay but at least go to the restaurant and explore a bit. It makes me feel so glamorous — I love the old Hollywood energy. And the chances of you meeting your favorite actor or musician there are pretty high.

My other favorite place is Bar Sinister — the goth club in Hollywood. It’s only open on Saturdays, I believe, but it’s s an amazing time with an amazing crowd. Spacious dancefloor, tall ceiling, amazing music. Fun, edgy, gritty vibe. Bonus points if you hit up Chateau and Bar Sinister on the same night — that’ll give you a great idea of the diversity of Hollywood.

If you’re looking for something chill to do during the day, I love Canyon Coffee in Echo Park. I highly recommend the salmon toast. It’s also within walking distance of the Echo Park Crossroads which is easily the best one in LA.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my mom. She has encouraged my creativity for as long as I can remember. My parents gave me the perfect foundation to take risks with my career. I’d also love to dedicate my shoutout to my growing circle of creative friends, confidants, and collaborators who keep me busy and employed!

Instagram: @suluofficial

Image Credits
photos & graphics by Luke “SULU” Supelak