Who is EJ? The mystery remains! EJ is the exclusive and mysterious resident DJ for the global entertainment brand and race championship, Formula E, as well as one of the freshest talents on Gareth Emery’s record label Garuda. The sky is the limit for this rising superstar as he releases a string of first releases including “Take Control of Me,” “Ignition” and “Never Say No.” He received huge support from the likes of Oliver Heldens, Thomas Gold and several more. Today, he gives insight into his very exciting world as a DJ/Producer.
When did you get into DJing? What or who were your early passions and influences?
I got into DJing in the late 90’s when I was pretty young. I was really into the original hard house and trance scene which obviously reflects on my style of productions. Nights like Frantic in London, and even the rave scene back then were my early passions and influences. Artists like Bianry Finary and Paul Van Dyke played a big part of it, as well.
How do you find your inspiration?
Inspiration can come from anywhere really. From travelling the world and visiting different places, to a certain sound, loop of sample. Anything can trigger it.
Where are people most likely to see you perform?
I am the resident DJ for Formula E, the electric street racing championship. I perform at all the races to the cars racing around the track, kind of supplying the soundtrack. I also perform on the main stage to the massive crowds that attend. It’s a lot of fun, and we are just about to start season 5 in December. There will be various tours as well at clubs and festivals around the world. Check out my website ejmusic.com for all dates!
Do you have original music that is available online?
I do indeed. I have just released 2 tracks on Garuda called Slipstream and No More Chances, as well as my earlier releases on Armada. These can all be found on platforms such as iTunes and Spotify. Much more to follow and some really cool projects in the pipeline as well.
What is one mistake you see a lot of up and coming DJs making?
Thinking that making a track can make to a DJ. Yes it gets you out there but as soon as you perform in front of thousands of people its very different. I have heard a lot of terrible sets.
If you could be eternally stuck in one year’s music scene, which year would it be?
Good questions. There are so many. I think any music era before social media took over and before everyone lived through their mobile phone instead of enjoying the moment.
What is one track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you hear it?
Binary Finary 1998 Paul Van Dyke Remix
What is something that bugs you about the DJ scene?
Champagne spray parties and celebrity DJs
What do you try to communicate to the audience through your vibe?
Energy and good times.
Where would you most like to perform?
I would love to perform at Tomorrowland. The crowd is insane and the production is out of this world.
What are your predictions for the music industry in the next five years?
I would love to see Trance make a massive comeback globally. I think the current trend of music is a bit dull and has no real emotion to it. Not saying it will go that way but it’s a nice thought.
How do you prepare your sets?
I like to research where I am going to play before I go. Some places you have to adapt your set a little. I can play from slower progressive stuff to the more trancier sound, which I love and everything in between. For example, I played at Budlight Warehouse in Mexico City that you had to keep to the slower progressive style, but for Ultra in Croatia you could bang it out straight away.
What have you learned since you started out as a DJ?
Never to take yourself to seriously and enjoy yourself. If you work hard and stick at it, and keep a smile on your face things happen.
