Today we’d like to introduce you to Calvin Paige.
Hi Calvin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Some artists discover music. For me, music has always been there.
Raised in Michigan, my connection to the arts began at an early age. At 2 years old, I would build lego microphones and ask my mom to perform Madonma with me. I was frequently caught in my childhood basement, creating dance routines to Lady Gaga, Kesha and Ariana Grande through my teen years.
Growing up, I spent over a decade in choir, performed in band throughout my school years, and developed a deep appreciation for live performance, storytelling, and the emotional power of music. While my musical foundation was built through traditional arts education, it was electronic music that ultimately captured my heart.
After graduating high school, I immersed myself in electronic dance music culture. At 18 years old, my first experience at Electric Forest became a defining moment—one that would shape the direction of my life for years to come. Drawn to the sense of community, self-expression, and freedom found within festival culture, I quickly became a devoted member of the scene, spending years chasing unforgettable sets, discovering new sounds, and finding inspiration in the artists who transformed dance floors into places of connection.
In 2021, while facing homelessness and living out of my car, I made a decision that would change everything. Armed with little more than my laptop, determination, and my car’s sound system as a makeshift studio, I began teaching myself music production. What started as a creative outlet during one of the most challenging chapters of my life soon became a calling.
Those late nights parked in parking lots, rest areas, and driving around the country, building tracks from the driver’s seat, became the foundation for the artist and person I am today.
A few short years later, I finally released my first album, ‘L.I.L.AC.’ and soon after my 2nd album, ‘Recession Pop’. Both albums showcasing a diverse range of sounds and samples that have always influenced my life.
Now I find myself emerged as one of West Michigan’s rising electronic artists. Even landing the “Must Watch Rising Artists 2026” list for Revue Magazine! I’ve become known for blending high-energy dance music with infectious pop sensibilities, I want to build a reputation for creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.
My recent accomplishments include headlining Grand Rapids’ Fourth of July celebration at Calder Plaza, performing at Grand Rapids Pride Festival, completing my first ever tour, and appearing at major events including Breakaway Michigan.
Beyond the music itself, I’m passionate about community building. Especially through my production company, WUBZ SHOP, I want to work to create inclusive, high-energy experiences that uplift LGBTQ+ artists, performers, and audiences. My mission extends beyond the DJ booth: to foster spaces where people can dance freely, celebrate themselves authentically, and connect through a shared love of music.
For me personally, success isn’t measured solely by streams, ticket sales, or stage size. It’s measured by the moments created between people on a dance floor—the friendships formed, the confidence discovered, and the memories that last long after the music stops.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being homeless and living out of my car back in 2021, was one if the biggest challenges I have faced in my life. I learned alot about myself and who I truly wanted to become through it. It taught me resilience, patience and just more empathy than I thought I could hold. I made some incredible friends and had some terrifying moments, but in the end I was able to get out of it and back on my feet to fully pursue my passion for music and making the world a better place.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Other than making my music and a part time bartending gig, I organize and run my own production company now called, “WUBZ SHOP”. Our main mission is to uplift and support the stories and endeavors of our local LGBTQ+ community. While focusing on curating some of the most iconic EDM events in the west michigan area. We have done events at the pyramid scheme and the intersection. A collaboration with Breakaway Music Festival, as well as pop-up events at local breweries and bars in town!
We have raised over $5,000 for local LGBTQ+ organiztions and charities in the area since starting our events back in 2024.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I have worked with some of my biggest musical inspirations already! I got to make an official remix for “The Cataracs” a pop/electro duo with multiple billboard top 40 hits.
Another surprising fact is that, if I’m not doing something with music, then I’m playing video games, love me some cities skylines and fortnite. I’ve always thought about becoming a twitch streamer someday as a hobby.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Officialcalv.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvinpaige
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19MAx6yHLn/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@calvmakesmusic
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/ojlVT8Ca14z8b0R896
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VD9eTMPeoaXRHuuybOVEa
