I had the chance to interview the up and coming DJ Stereoshock this past week. We talked about his start as a DJ, goals he has for himself and some info on what we can expect from him in the future. He just dropped a new edit today to Passion Pit's "Run Boy Run Away". Check out the interview below and listen to his new edit that is a free download as well.
How did you get started as a DJ and at what age?
As of this month, it actually marks my 5th year of DJing and producing. I began back in the fall of my sophomore year of high school (2008), and it’s pretty crazy how fast the time has gone. I always had a passion for music having played numerous instruments, but nothing ever kept my interest for a sustained period of time. It’s a funny story because I first discovered my passion for djing through DJ Hero. I played with the game for about a month, and figured that regular djing/producing would be just as easy (it wasn’t haha). Soon after, I sold DJ Hero, picked up a Numark Mixtrack controller, and downloaded Logic Pro. I began spending full days working on music, and haven’t stopped since.
Who is your inspiration in the electronic dance music world?
When I was younger, I was inspired by a great deal of producers. I would listen to everything from progressive house, to trance, and even Hardstyle. Artists such as Kaskade, Tiesto, Swedish House Mafia, Dirty South, Benny Benassi, Sander Van Doorn and many others, had a significant impact on the music I produce today. However, these days I find my inspiration often stems from music external to Electronic Dance Music. My greatest inspiration comes from Soundtrack work such as Hans Zimmer, and indie/alternative music, such as Woodkid, Lana Del Rey, Florench Welch, and Coldplay. The producers and songwriters of the indie/alternative genre have been creating incredible music in 2013.
How did you get the name Stereoshock?
The name Stereoshock came about in the fall of my junior year of high school. I had been having fun with the equipment for around a year, so I figured, it was time to get “serious”. My friend German and I thought that doing parties would be fun, so we started brainstorming some names. Stereoshock was one of the names among the list, and we decided to go with it seeing as it flowed nicely. Many people think Stereoshock is in reference to a stereo system, but it’s really a reference to the “Stereo perspective” in my music. In a way, it describes the layering, and detail that I put into my music, and my pursuit to always “shock” my listeners with the imagery in my work.
You have a bunch of great remixes out there. What do you look for in a song and makes you think you can create a good remix from it?
Thanks, I appreciate it! When looking for a track to remix, I am particularly picky as of late. First off, it has to be something that hasn’t been over-remixed and something that can compliment my specifically tailored sound (Cinematic Style; Big Room Sound). When I listen to the record, I have to be able to close my eyes, and envision what the record will sound like. Everything I produce, has to tell a story, and connect with the listener in some form. In addition, emotion and contrast are two of the most important aspects of my productions. If I decide to remix a piece of music, I’ll usually have the imagery in my head instantly.
What is your favorite track you have produced or remix you have done and why?
As a producer, it’s very hard to have a favorite. Everything I touch, I put my absolute heart into. Each one of my works holds a special place for me, because they’re each a representative of who I am as an artist. The emotion and the imagery that I produce, gives listeners a chance to hear how I visualize music. In saying that, it’s hard for me to pick one, and I’m proud of everything that I have produced as of recent.
What do you do when you're not producing or making remixes?
When I’m not working on music related stuff, I like to chill with my friends, and family. I’m heavily into action sports, so I skateboard, snowboard, and skimboard through out the year. I would say that other than making music, action sports are my next favorite thing to do. In addition, I casually enjoy videogames, and amusment parks (water parks included)! If it’s around the fall I LOVE going to Haunted Houses and attractions. I make it a priority to get to some each year haha.
What is your ultimate goal as a DJ?
As a producer, I have quite a few short-term and long-term goals. In the near future, I would love to be a full touring artist, and to begin the festival circuit. In addition, I would love to be situated with a label that I can call “home” to as an artist. My long-term goals are much greater, but one that I am specifically passionate about, is charity work in America. I have plans to begin a great charity organization called EDM Cares: Make A Difference Through Music, in which could revolutionize charity in the United States. The organization will make the general public want to become involved, rather than, feeling like it’s their obligation. In addition, I would love to have extensive collaborations with specific indie artists and songwriters that I admire, as well as, work on movie sound tracking (which I feel could be extremely exciting with my music style). I’m very much looking forward to the future possibilities with my music, and it is becoming more exciting by the day. The only thing that matters to me in the present and in the future, is that I put my heart into everything I do.
What can we expect from you as far as music goes in the coming months?
In the upcoming months, there will be new music, and hopefully, exciting announcements to be made. All of the support recently has been truly a blessing, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everyone’s love! You can all stay updated on my social networks for new music, shows, and announcements!
Facebook: www.facebook.com/stereoshockofficial
Twitter: www.twitter.com/stereoshock
Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/djstereoshock
Website: www.djstereoshock.com
Electric Nightlife (iTunes): www.tinyurl.com/electricnightlife
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