When it comes to crafting melodic techno and deep house that hits both the heart and the dance floor, Jono Stephenson is quickly making a name for himself. Following his breakout debut on Purified Records in 2024, the artist is back with Digital Rain, an immersive journey, weaving pulsating basslines with cascading melodic textures. It’s a track that’s as introspective as it is energizing, balancing lush atmospheres with hypnotic rhythms in a way only Jono can. The accompanying artwork, by renowned photographer Jan Erik Waider, captures the River Otta in Norway—a striking visual metaphor for the track’s dynamic flow and emotional depth. But there’s more to Digital Rain than meets the ear. The track also sheds light on the delicate balance of our natural world, tying into Jono’s support for organizations like International Rivers and Only One, which work to protect vital ecosystems and combat climate change. We caught up with Jono to talk about the inspiration behind Digital Rain and his evolution as an artist. Let’s dive in.

Can you tell us where you are in the world? What do you love about that place? What do you hate? What does your daily life look like over there? 

I moved to Los Angeles roughly a year and a half ago after living in South Africa for 25 years. LA is truly a magical city full of incredible people, many of whom have big dreams like mine and I think we find solace amongst friends along the same journey. 

You’re promoting your latest single, Digital Rain. What does it represent for you?

It represents another milestone in terms of the evolution of my sound and a taste of what's to come.

I created it to help me get through a challenging period in my life, pouring all those emotions into the music as fully as I could. 

2024 was a defining year for you. What have been some of your favorite moment of the past year? What have you learned from these moments?

Some of my favorite moments from 2024 were playing Purified South Africa + LA as well as traveling to play at ADE with Miss Monique for the Siona showcase.

Opening for Cristoph at Avalon was also a highlight as well as opening for Nora at Exchange on December 29th recently to end the year off. 

When you’re working on new music, what’s your favorite aspect of the process?

My favorite aspect of creating new music is the journey on which it takes you. I make all my music based on emotion whether that be experiences or memories etc and I enjoy the nostalgia as much as it makes me emotional sometimes. 

What’s the most unusual object or gadget you keep in the studio?

Honestly I don’t really have any gadgets - I like a clean minimalistic workspace but definitely appreciate certain animatronic-type gadgets.

What advice would give to a young musician or DJ starting today?

Focus on staying true to my own sound and vision. It's easy to get caught up in trends, but the most lasting success comes from authenticity and originality.

Be patient—growth takes time, and setbacks are part of the journey. Build strong connections with other creatives, and don't be afraid to experiment and learn along the way.

What would be your desert island plugins and/or digital tools? Are there VSTs you couldn’t live without? What do you like about using them? 

Serum + Diva - these are my essentials that I can't live without.

What was the last track by another artist you were obsessed with? Tell us how you encountered it, when you would listen to it, and why it obsessed you.

“Solo Dolo, Pt. III” by Kid Cudi - a friend played it for me awhile back and for some reason, it just stuck, good vibes. 

Thanks for talking with us. What do you have coming up in the next few months?

I currently have a few collaborations that I'm really excited about and then also some shows coming up that I'm looking forward to announcing soon!

Digital Rain is out now via Purified Records

Follow Jono Stephenson

Facebook | Soundcloud | Instagram | Spotify

Disclosure: This blog contains affiliate links, which means Internet Tattoo may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.