Born Chris Emerson, What So Not has long operated as one of electronic music’s more shape-shifting creative identities, continually evolving his sound while navigating the space between experimental bass, trap, and forward-thinking electronic production. Over the years, his work has been defined by contrast, moments of heavy, club-focused intensity balanced with more atmospheric, cinematic textures that reflect a broader artistic curiosity beyond the dancefloor.
In 2018, Emerson stepped back from the constant pace of touring and production, choosing instead to recalibrate his relationship with music and creativity. That period marked a deliberate pause from the demands of the dance scene, allowing him to reconnect with nature, artistic process, and a slower sense of inspiration away from industry pressure.
In 2024, he launched the Dance Dance Revival Tour, a run designed to spotlight local Australian talent across the country. The tour eventually culminated in an unconventional finale, a warehouse-style event in Preston held at a Bunnings location, featuring performances from Peking Duk alongside other guests. 
During this time, he spent extended periods living in coastal environments, where surfing and ocean culture became central influences in reshaping his creative perspective. The rhythm and unpredictability of the ocean, along with time spent living in coastal towns, began to shape his creative approach, turning real-life experiences into sound. That period away from the industry gave him a clearer perspective and a stronger sense of creative freedom, leading to a more instinctive and emotionally open direction in his work moving forward.
