Joe Ghost x Canadianravers Interview [Inspiration, Recent Track, Downtime]

The Canadian DJ and Producer took the industry by storm when his 2013 track with Hardwell, "Are You Ready," soared to #1 on the charts and was named by DJ Mag as one of the year's most popular tracks. We have seen him play many times in Toronto and he has always brought his 110% to every show that he has played. We were excited to interview such a unique artist that has progressed and adapted to the direction of the music scene while keeping to his own style of music.

Interview

CR: Who inspired you to start DJing and producing music?

JG: I first fell in love with DJing when I saw a video clip of DJ Crave at a DMC turntablism competition. It was the first time I ever saw someone scratching on turntables, and I was instantly hooked. I had to learn everything about it! I quickly saved up and purchased my first pair of turntables. I started playing at local clubs and wanted to start playing my own music during my sets, that’s how I got into production.

CR: If you can collaborate with one big artist? Who would it be?

JG: There are so many artists that I love listening to; If I had to choose one artist specifically to collaborate with, it would definitely be Lana Del Rey, I love her voice and writing styles.

CR: What is your one go-to track that you will always put in the mix when you perform and why?

Definitely “On The Floor Like.” It was the track that helped get my career to the next level, and it always brings soo much energy to the crowd! 

CR: Your show in Pakistan was amazing from what we saw through your Instagram stories how was the crowd over there versus here?

JG: That show was such an amazing event to be a part of. It was the first-ever music festival they have ever had, and the vibe of the whole set was so memorable. The EDM market is brand new there, and it was their first taste of seeing and hearing music from their favorite artists live, rather than on Youtube or other social streaming sites. Because of that, there was that little extra sense of energy that is different from the crowd here in North America, who have been to an EDM show at least once in their lifetime.

CR: We know you made your mix “Live Fast” for PUBG? How was it working with them?

JG: When the opportunity for me to work with them came about, I was really excited. I am an avid gamer, and PUBG is a title I play often. So when I got the call for this I was super pumped to be able to be a part of a brand I love. They were amazing to work with, they let me put my own spin onto the creative ideas I had, and let me work as an artist without boundaries. I was really happy with how the final product came out.

CR: Since you have played at Digital Dreams, Escapade, Ultra, Solis and many other events, what is your most memorable show to date? We want every detail :)?

JG: I have been extremely lucky to play at so many events that I could only dream about being a part of when I first started DJ’n. Each one has their own special part in my heart for specific reasons, I wouldn’t be able to choose a favorite out of them, but I have to say playing digital dreams was a very special moment in my career. It was at a time where my career started to move really fast, and it was the first mainstage set I ever played at a major festival. I feel like I had a buzz after the show that lasted for months, nothing like being able to play in front of 40,000+ people in your hometown.

CR: Your Recent track “Say it Aint so” is a notable cover for the original track by the Weezers, Do you think more artist should do more covers of the older tracks in this day and age?

JG: I am a huge fan of artists making covers and putting their own spins on classic tracks, especially ones that have meaning to an important moment in their life. Music helps us get through every moment in our life, and I felt like “Say it aint so” was a huge song for me while growing up. I had to do my own take on it!

CR: What do you do when you are not producing music or performing?

JG: When I’m not locked away in a studio, or on a plane, I love to sit back with friends, watch movies, read books, and of course play a lot of video games.

CR: I know that there are two parts to be an artist in this industry, which one do you prefer more DJing or more producing?

I always tell people, DJn is like the 1 hour reward you get for countless hours of work in the studio. Haha

I love the final moments of finishing a song, right before I export it , and I know that it is something special, but the hours of building a song are rough! DJn is definitely my most favorite part of the job, there is no better feeling than being able to connect with a large crowd!

CR: If you have some words for our followers that are trying to make it in the industry?

JG: The best advice I can give is that this is definitely not a race. I have seen so many talented artist come and go, all trying to reach the “top” quickly, and burning out. The best thing is to treat this as a long life goal to keep reaching newer heights in your career, and always being thankful and embracing the “wins” you achieve. It definitely best to keep things organic, 10 real fans who support you, are better than 1000 fake fans who aren’t their to support you and help you grow.

Hope you guys liked our interview with him and we will definitely keep a look out for Joe in 2020 for new things to come so stay tuned and check him out on his social media outlets.

Social Links

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

Interview with Matt Barri [New Track, Accomplishment, Downtime]

18 years old LA-based producer, a gifted up and comer talks about his new track “Somebody You Knew”, accomplishment, and downtime.

Interview

CR: Growing up who was your biggest inspiration and how that impacted you as a producer?

MB: My biggest inspiration was my grandfather. He’s responsible for sparking the music bug in me from a very young age. However, Seven Lions, Porter Robinson, and Deadmau5 have always made a huge impact on my music style and vision. I pull inspiration from the old and the new, always trying to learn and soak in new material.

CR: We know that you have been learning musical instruments from a very young age, did that help in honing your sound as a producer?

MB: Absolutely, I would say so. I do write a lot of melodies and chord progressions on my guitar and play very minimal keys which also helps write ideas faster and more organically than just noting them into a program. Having some kind of understanding of music theory and performance has been a huge help for me producing tracks.

CR: How did ‘Somebody You Knew’ came to be? The lyrics, vocals, and planning of it?

MB: I wrote the track earlier in the year, the song was about my relationship breaking down. I didn’t just want to write a generic “heartbreak” song, I wanted to do something different and come from another angle. I really think a lot of people can relate to this one.

CR: Who is your biggest supporter as a Producer/ DJ?

MB: Without question, it would be my dad. He’s put in an insane amount of time and effort into me and I’m beyond grateful for everything he’s done. Also, the rest of my family will always be my biggest fans which means a lot to me that they’re so supportive.

CR: Since it is getting close to Holidays/ Christmas, what will you be doing during that time?

MB: I’ll definitely be writing a lot. In LA it’s going to be all rainy and gloomy which is the perfect time to stay inside and write a ton of sad music. One of my favourite things to do, as dull as that sounds lol!

CR: If you can collaborate with one big artist? Who would it be?

MB: I would have to say Seven Lions because he’s a staple in melodic EDM music and I’d say we have very similar visions as far as our music goes. I would also say Kill The Noise or AU5 because they’re also some of the best producers from a technical perspective and write some of the coolest bass tracks. 

CR: What is one subgenre you think doesn't get the attention it deserves?

MB: I think there’s a whole community of talented young producers on Soundcloud that are constantly pushing boundaries when it comes to subgenres. Some of my favourites are Former Hero, Yitaku, Jaron, and Moore kismet. I think what makes them all so special is that they don’t necessarily align to any subgenre but their sounds are so distinct that they are their own subgenres.

CR: Which festival is your dream festival to play? And why?

MB: For me, I would have to say Ultra because it’s a festival that I’ve always dreamed of playing since I was little. Also, EDC and Countdown would be a dream come true to play at.

CR: What do you like to do during your downtime other than producing music?

MB: I play a lot of Pokemon. I’d say that takes up a lot of my free time lol. Other than that I’d say I’m either on Soundcloud or youtube looking up new music content.

CR: Since we are getting to the year 2020 what were some of you highlights and accomplishment for 2019? 

MB: Some personal highlights would be graduating high school and moving to North Hollywood. I had the honor to support Wooli at Avalon in August which was one of the favourite shows I’ve played. I also threw 2 of the biggest parties in my home town, Palos Verdes. I threw and DJ’d a new year’s party where I got to play for roughly 450 people all crammed into my own living room. 

CR: What can we expect from you in 2020?

MB: Tons of new music. Some melodic stuff, some heavy stuff, some dreamy stuff. Stuff that’ll make you headbang and cry at the same time. Working on getting a lot of shows lined up. DJing is my favorite thing to do and I’m just itching to get back up to the booth soon. 

Don’t forget to check out his new track “Somebody You Knew” being released on December 12

Keep up with his socials: Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify.

Interview with Nora En Pure [Purified Show]

Daniela Di Lillo is better known as her stage name “Nora En Pure” has become the pinnacle in the industry for Deep House. She has curated her Purified shows featuring the likes of Pete Tong, Gorgon City, Kidnap, Moonwalk, Eelke Kleijn, and Sonny Fodera. We had a chance to interview Nora En Pure before her Purified show in Montreal.

Interview

CR: Where did your name “Nora En Pure” come from?

NEP: I had to pick a name when I first started putting my tracks out there and I just wanted something that was a little different from what was out there at the time. The ‘Pure’ in it definitely relates to my sound and the organic instruments and sounds that I use in my productions. 

CR: With your Purified podcast at Episode 167, which guest DJ would you bring to the decks next?

NEP: I like to display the sound of the line ups, so in that episode, I featured more music of these DJs. I play quite diverse music on my radio show too, but often feature acts like Yotto, Rüfüs Du Sol, Lane 8, Claptone, Bob Moses and also a lot of smaller acts. So anyone along those lines would be very welcome on the decks :)

CR: We know this question has been asked many times, but which one do you prefer more club events or Festivals and why?

NEP: I genuinely love them both. Club nights are much more intimate, you feel the sound and energy much more than at festivals. Then again festivals can be so much fun too. Curated stages usually have cooler crowds to play to as they are more into that specific music and the big stages blow you away just because they are so large. I think no matter where I play, as long as the crowd is feeling it, I am happy! 

CR: In your tracks, there is a lot of relaxing and chill melodies, where does the inspiration of that come from?

NEP: It's simply the music I most connect with and the inspiration comes from nature, wildlife and I try to take the listener away on a journey, taking a break from everyday stresses.

CR: We have seen you play different venues in Canada; Which venue would be the most memorable one?

NEP: I think my favourite is Coda in Toronto. Or obviously Shambala was also next level. In general I actually always have a good time in Canada, people really know their music.

CR: Congratulations in order, for receiving the IDMA award for the best female artist of the year!! What advice would you give to the young female producer that is trying to get into the industry?

NEP: Thanks! I find this topic a little tricky because I don’t believe there should be separate awards for different genders - while it's probably made with the intention to help the females, I think it's also counterproductive. Ideally, people should be judged on their music regardless of their gender. I do think things are beginning to change in a positive way. My advice to any young producers trying to make it in the industry is… be yourself. Find your sound and hone in on it. When you have it, make sure you stay firm and believe in it. There are way too many DJs or producers out there that sound the same, so try and not be influenced by what is popular or what others are doing. 

CR: What do you like to do during your downtime other than producing music?

NEP: I love photography! My ideal day when I have some time off is to go have a hike in the mountains with my dog and my camera. I like to be out in nature and just have some time away from computers, social media, stress, etc.

CR: I know DJs/ Producers travel with multiples of that one item, what is that item for you?

NEP: I have several pairs of in-ear headphones. I always listen to music or watch something to fall asleep in the planes. I hate the surrounding constant noise in planes and absolutely need these to get rest.

CR: We have been asking this question to every DJ/Producer, what is the one must-have item on your rider in the green room?

NEP: My drinks are usually vodka with the yellow Red Bull or a Rosé if its early in the morning for my body clock ;-) I often have fresh fruits as well. All these things aren't must-haves though, they are just nice to have :)

CR: Do you have any pre-show rituals? Is it any different from Festival vs Clubs?

NEP: I just like to have a drink before, catch a bit of the vibe may be, check out the stage or set up. I don't like to get in last minute and have to rush straight to the booth.

Here are some of the latest releases she worked on, check them out!!

Also check her latest Purified podcast!!