Roo AOTD #17 What So Not

By Daniel Karasek | February 19, 2025

All aboard the hype train for Bonnaroo 2025! Only 113 days until we are all on the Farm again, can you believe it? It’s coming up fast and we can’t wait to be dancing with all of you at Bonnaroo! Today’s Artist of the Day is the one and only What So Not. Learn more about the artist below. Don’t forget to check out all of our artist spotlights! Thank you for reading these posts!

Artist Biography

What So Not, the enigmatic Australian electronic producer born Chris Emerson (aka Emoh Instead), has become one of the most significant names in global bass music. His distinctive sound—known for its innovative fusion of genre-blending beats, irresistible rhythms, and bass-heavy drops—first gained massive attention with his remix of Major Lazer’s “Get Free.” This remix, which went viral in 2012, propelled What So Not into the festival circuit, cementing his reputation as a pioneering force in the world of dance music.

Emoh Instead’s career took another leap in 2014 when he officially formed What So Not as a duo with Flume. Their partnership produced some of the most iconic tracks in modern electronic music, including the Grammy-nominated “High You Are” and their widely acclaimed “Gemini.” However, after Flume’s departure in 2015, Emerson continued the project solo, releasing a series of groundbreaking singles that pushed the boundaries of both sound and performance.

Throughout his career, What So Not has amassed over a billion streams globally, firmly establishing himself in the hearts of fans across the world. His discography, which includes the 2018 EP Divide & Conquer, showcases his ability to blend experimental textures with accessible dance grooves. Always pushing forward, What So Not’s latest body of work, Anomaly (2021), finds Emerson embracing an even more refined sound. The album explores deeper emotional and creative territory, a result of the artist’s introspective pause from touring.

What So Not’s music draws from a vast array of influences, seamlessly fusing trap, dubstep, house, and future bass into a hybrid sound that feels equally at home on underground playlists and mainstage festivals. But it’s not just the music that sets What So Not apart. His ability to connect with his fans on a personal level, through both his visuals and storytelling, ensures that every performance is an immersive, unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or a newcomer, the evolution of What So Not is a testament to the artist’s relentless passion for reinvention, staying one step ahead of the curve while maintaining a deep commitment to the genre. As Emerson continues to experiment and evolve, his impact on the global dance music scene remains as vital as ever.