SoundGym Hero: Sam Camilli & Elena Gully

A powerhouse DJ/producer duo, Sam and Elena blend decades of electronic inspiration with hands-on creativity, from SoundGym training to Cosmic Academy roots. With tracks ready for release and a show opening for Paul Oakenfold, Sam & Elena this month’s SoundGym Heroes!

How did you first find your way into making music?

My love and passion for music stemmed from early ’90s and late ’80s electronic artists like 2Unlimited and Ace of Base. More recently, I’ve been influenced by producers like Pavel Petrov, Karpovich, Rafael Cerato, Vintage Culture, and Badwolf.

I got into music production about two years ago, after DJing for two years before that. DJing live for people was kind of a “gateway drug” into wanting to create the genre of music I’ve loved and supported since my early teens. Eventually, I joined a phenomenal electronic music production school, Cosmic Academy, where one of the feedback instructors introduced me to SoundGym

Aside from music, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy working on cars, small DIY projects, and attending outings with @phxdriven, a supercar owners’ club I helped a friend start. Physical fitness is also a big part of my life. I once lost over 100 lbs, and the gym has been a consistent part of my routine ever since.

What’s something you're surprisingly good at that has nothing to do with music?

I’ve been told I’m a man of many talents, but a master of none. For example, I remodeled my entire bathroom from scratch; including tile work, countertops, cabinetry, plumbing, framing, carpentry, and electrical. I’ve done a little of almost every construction trade you can think of. Professionally, my main business is in real estate.

I own and manage a strip mall in Arizona and help clients navigate the world of commercial real estate; including buying, selling, and leasing. I’m licensed in the state as both a General Contractor and a Real Estate Agent, so anything related to real estate, I know fairly well.

If you could play or create with any artist, who would it be and why?

That’s a tough one since I’ve been attending shows for over 20 years. But if I could collaborate with any artist, it would have to be Daft Punk; they’re absolute legends. If I were to pick someone more current, it would be Pavel Petrov. He’s just a machine within the genre I’m trying to master.

What piece of music gear do you love the most, and what makes it irreplaceable in your creative process?

Most of my gear is software-based, but I do own a Push 3 and Softube Console 1. I’m still getting the hang of them. I’ve only had them for about six months, but I already love the hands-on control they provide. They bring a new level of creativity and engagement to my workflow.

What daily or weekly habits do you have in place to keep you creating?

I use SoundGym daily for ear training and am currently still enrolled in Cosmic Academy courses. Outside of that, I challenge myself to finish one new, near-complete track each week. That self-imposed pressure keeps me on track and helps me improve steadily and realistically.

What keeps you motivated to continue making music?

I’m extremely stubborn and determined. Once I commit to something, I give it everything until I see the results I’m aiming for. Beyond that, my natural curiosity and constant desire to improve myself keep me motivated in the studio.

What song would you choose as the soundtrack of your life?

Probably something by Hans Zimmer. He’s a genius with synths and film scores; I’m often more blown away by his music than by the films it’s featured in. That said, my love for music spans so many genres that picking just one song would be nearly impossible.

What's your favorite feature on SoundGym, and how has it helped you in your musical journey?

The daily ear training games are a literal game-changer for anyone wanting to improve their critical listening skills. They’ve made a huge difference in how I approach mixing especially in being able to accurately identify problems and hear the changes I make.

I also appreciate the ranking system (and have even suggested updates for it). It boosts my confidence, knowing that my decisions in mixing are backed by measurable skill and real progress.

What’s something exciting you're working on or looking forward to?

I currently have a few fully finished, mixed, and mastered tracks that are ready to pitch to labels. One, in particular, is a fun Disco/Rap/Blog House fusion that I created with my good friend @grantxsmith (Grant Smith). I’m also incredibly excited about an upcoming show where I’ll be opening for Paul Oakenfold with my DJ duo and production partner; my fiancée, Elena Gully.

You can follow Sam & Elena on their Instagram, and Tiktok; and listen to their music on Soundcloud.

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