Category : Podcasts

Podcasts

Habischman, Talking Music, Influences & Production

Danny Savage interviews Habishchman on his podcast

Danny Savage introduces Iman Habibi known globally as Habischman an Iranian DJ and Producer appearing on iconic labels like Get Physical, Global Underground, Moda Black, Viva, Noir Music, Knee Deep In Sound and Nonstop whilst also counting industry giants Pete Tong, Nicole Moudaber and John Digweed amongst his ardent supporters. In this episode the pair discuss what it takes to break through within the current scene and they cover goal setting, networking and also the significance of aligning your brand alongside the right labels, venues and agencies to build your following with people that really understand your music. With a frank sharing of inspiration, aspiration and industry experience this Danny Savage Show really provides a deeper insight into the roots of electronic music and how DJs and producers dedicated to reaching the top need to navigate their way the opportunities that arise.

Beginning with a brief pre-history we get to grips with Habischman’s original interest in music progressing from dancing to breakdancing and the evolution from scratching to beatmatching on turntables. Launching his moniker in 2008 Habischman followed numerous forays into production really finding favour on the Ableton platform and taking a major step forward invited onto the famed Redbull Academy in the same year. This unique platform was a supercharged introduction to respected DJs, profile artists, teachers and seasoned experts and covering a mix of work, education and entertainment.

Moving onto the next round of questioning Danny delves deeper into the specific challenges and benefits of Habischman’s local surrounds. Even though we’ve witnessed a long list of great artists breaking through from Iran including Ali Dubfire, Darrius Syrossian and Yousef, Iman is literally one of the only ones still living and producing in his native homeland whilst upholding his international profile. Citing the immediate lack of electronic artists and events shows the reference points are provided over digital media with online radio, Youtube and more for influence. Moving onto the culture Habischman references the amazing beauty of his country as a major instigator in his outlook and viewpoint which then translates into his chosen art-form, on the flipside an immediate challenge could be net speed hindering his information uploads but this is really a minor factor but across the world plenty of other producers may relate with their own defining restrictions.

A major indicator about his character is Habischman shows resilient persistence and placates that his personal drive is in forward motion regardless of anything that arises which leans onto the next phase of Danny’s current e-book series under goal setting. Taking in an overview of the strategy that has helped build his reputation the pair reflect on historic landmarks like Habischman first being introduced to the scene and sound via Global Underground mix series and then taking up as their feature artist 15 years later. Offering up a sound advice for upcoming artists the duo discuss the importance of connecting with the correct calibre of labels and gaining the support of key people as you build.

Looking at the next level in his own career Danny and Iman discuss Radio 1 and the kudos and feelings evoked with the likes of Steve Lawler, Dubfire, Danny Tenaglia, Digweed, Sasha and Pete Tong showing interest in his music and accomplishing widespread radio exposure. Unique areas of interest for listeners comes in the format of direction, inspiration and connection interplaying names like Hot Since 82 and the importance of peer feedback and interaction a prime example is highlighted in Ali Dubfire’s documentary http://www.abovegroundlevelfilm.com/ showing the level of dedication, DJ culture and motivation it takes to gain respect and prime positioning within the industry.

In relation to his existing territory Habischman tells how he produces in a basement in Tehran, helping others with his acquired skills yet his love is touring and a European sound, remixing and collaborations that drive him. We get to know the form his big break took and how technology has allowed him to connect with his audience and the greater industry, listing his own steps of studying  labels, tracks, djs and perfecting the strategy to get heard, reminding DJs that today persistence is key as many labels receive thousands of emails weekly and even himself has needed to send multiple reminder emails to stay relevant, suggesting you need a steadfast belief in your sound and look toward all formats to submit.

Returning back to relationships, noting it is a relatively small industry the boys talk about making mutual friendships and leveraging everyone’s advice. Once again we hear that the Redbull Academy was a melting pot of talent Habischman attending the same time as Septa and Jamie Woon with previous luminaries also being Black Coffee and Nina Kravitz. Looking back Iman says it was exciting yet took some adjustments to the balance between partying, playing, studio sessions but digesting it retrospectively the sound engineers and staff (even a previous Grammy award winner) were invaluable resources offering life changing advice.

Bringing it into the present Habischman introduces us to the fact his PR introduction via The Everyday Agency to Jackmode has now positioned him with a family that believe in him and the value of a bespoke booking agent that can really support you. Looking at the key aspects you need to be picked up he lists representation (how you present yourself or your brand to the world, introduction (friends, networks and assets) and the reliance on your activity showing you need to be engaged, show a good history of releases scheduled and momentum building to be considered … assuring it won’t happen overnight. Breaking it down it covers key notes on enquiring with the right people, including fellow DJ’s, your business model, social presence, productions, plans, feedback and following (a comprehensive package) where Danny interjects with some suggested tools for DJs including Hootsuite, Buffer, Track Id’s, formulating engaging content and questions, video lengths and times for posting @6pm -10 as crucial, how to gather stats and data and using that as an advantage.

The next stage takes in the components of licensing tracks, programming and placement for the Global Underground series, Habischmans gigs in Ibiza last season, the platform as a learning experience, stepping foot in Sankeys and Amnesia and a nod to his manager who works for Game Over co-promoting Carl Cox and Resistance parties. He openly shares the VIP culture may push people across to Croatia which holds a lot of current interest before discussing both Berlin and UK scene’s. Reminding people that he prefers to play party’s where his sound specifically fits in preference to the other way round, as international DJs often find in their tours, using a recent GU set in Moscow as an example where the time showcased his groove and tech based preference but many were expecting his more underground and understated sound.

Announcing a commitment to return to Berlin and Ibiza this year we also hear of Habischman’s major desire to play at Fabric or a UK tour which was previously impeded by Visa issues, navigated to feature at ADE and Ministry Of Sound. Outside of music we all like to know more about our favourite figureheads so Habischman shares he is also into swimming (fitness) movies and initiating video editing and script writing. We get to learn more about his side project Time Code TV which is based on Instagram and provides knowledge for young people, taking on the form of an eventual academy. This shares 1 minute clips on DJing, production and music daily with recent introductions from La Fleur and Tini and acts a s a source of giving back whilst also encouraging his interest in documentary’s, editing and media.

Projecting forward we hear that Habischman perceives the world as a relatively small arena and via his touring and experiences notes it’s a similarity we all share through the universal language of music, connecting us, artists and fans together regardless of location or race. Danny asks what the most impacting purchase over time to help form his future to which the reply shares a laptop for production loaded with Ableton (full version) and now a Macbook Pro, the main takeaway is that we hear it’s not about gear it’s about the idea that is the standout theme. In the past 6 months the main purchase has been a Korg Minologue featuring heavily in recent productions with its warmth and depth and the physicality you get from an actual product in preference to software.

In the final roundup we learn about the artists regrets which includes not being able to rewind the Redbull opportunity with his current understanding and capabilities where he could now detail the process better. Reflecting on his failings we hear the wise words that nothing is a quick fix or easy step forward you must pay your dues telling us about the time his hit Leave Me was blowing up and he couldn’t leave the country with National Service he had previously delayed, chalking it all down to a learning experience and reminding him of essential duties which we all hold in our own relevant stories.

Via the quickfire Q&A posed by readers of the www.dannysavage.com blog provides some further insight and hot tips for the audience https://soundcloud.com/phillclintonmusic requests to know more about the importance of social media and which preferred platform is strongest. Habischman shares for him it is more about instagram in preference to Facebook keeping fans updated, feeling more connected especially with shows, sharing appreciation giving away tips and freebies as it isn’t always about money. Next Oblivinato from the uSA asks the best way to produce your own parties but Habischman himself doesn’t promote but he shares poignant tips that you should always aim to be different, create don’t compete, don’t expect loads of money in the infancy, include your friends and gather momentum and fanbase first. Tom Saunders from London enquires whether the Berlin scene is better or worse with the influx of underground versus commercial aspects where Habischman incites it’s always a good thing with variance and there is always good and bad anywhere … globally yet Berlin remains one of the best backdrops and resilient sounds in the world supported by local government who value the clubbing trade in preference to UK as we often witness.

One of the most intriguing sections is when Danny asks something we don’t know about the artist. The first thing Habischman shares is his full name of which his moniker has been derived and next the major footprint that he doesn’t take drugs which in todays current scene is often questioned or promoted. As priority Habischman doesn’t judge but prefers to keep his focus and standards high which reflects throughout his profile and prefers fitness as an on-going fixation. Delving back into his youth he was involved in a car accident where his right ear suffered and incurred tinnitus, now as a DJ he finds the constant hindrance a warning when it comes to long hours in a club and actively suggests ear plugs and protection, something we should all take into account.

Quote of the day comes in the form of Habischman sharing “The word impossible is not in my dictionary” when prompted if he could present a one-off to DJ magazine for potential front-page positioning. Please check out more on Danny Savage and his guest Habischman below and expect something out of the ordinary when he lands in Ibiza this season bringing something intimate not often available on the island to either a villa party, private rooftop event or even a Cliffside pop-up, keep your eyes and ears peeled.

Get to know more about Habischman and also check out his music:

 

https://www.facebook.com/Habischman.Official/

 

https://twitter.com/habischman

 

https://www.instagram.com/habischman/

 

https://soundcloud.com/habischman

 

https://www.beatport.com/artist/habischman/258185

 

https://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/habischman

 

 

Tune in to the rest of the That Danny Savage Show podcasts and receive unique insights from DJs, Labels, Promoters and many from behind the scene including influencers, managers, marketers and more. That Danny Savage Show is available to listen, download, comment and share:

 

ITunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/that-danny-savage-show/id1334078981?mt=2

 

Soundcloud

https://soundcloud.com/thatdannysavage

 

Please join the DJ Growth Lab Community a facebook group dedicated to giving the skills and information to people wanting to break into the music industry.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/djgrowthlab/

https://www.facebook.com/ThatDannySavage/

www.dannysavage.com

 

All enquiries and feedback to:

 [email protected]

Press / Media:

[email protected]

Please support our friends and partners at:

 The Everyday Agency – A creative marketing agency that provides Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Design, PR, Social Media Strategy, SEO to the international music industry.

 www.everydayagency.co.uk

Electric Mode Magazine – Electronic Music News & Network

Providing the best news about the electronic music industry including music reviews, music news, clubs, events, Ibiza club news, DJs, labels and more. Covering the hottest Electronic music events and festivals from house to techno, disco, deep house, tech house and minimal.

www.electric-mode.co.uk

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Foundation – A charity creating opportunities & fundraising initiatives to enable the dance music industry to help children in crisis.

www.lastnightadjsavedmylife.com

Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) – A not-for-profit trade association created to represent the common interests of those companies and individuals whose business is Electronic Music and to advocate best practice for the genre.

https://www.associationforelectronicmusic.org

 

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Podcasts

Denney, What It Takes To Reach The Top

That Danny Savage Show – Introducing Denney (DJ & Producer) – What It Takes To Reach The Top

Fast receiving global recognition Danny’s latest podcast series continues to deliver some of the best insight directly into the centre of the music industry. With this podcast Danny Savage settles into the hot seat asking Denney what drives his dedication and direction as an internationally recognised artist and reflects back on his past. Featuring on a host of heavyweight labels Viva, Hot Creations, Crosstown Rebels, Pokerflat, 20:20 Vision and starting life in the office at one of the worlds iconic clubs Back to Basics (considered the longest running weekly night in clubland).

Denney provides some exclusive feedback on the current music scene and the transition it took to get to his present  position citing that “he spent educating himself on music, networking and countless hours in the studio before beginning to reap the rewards of his hard work.” Tune-in to gain a greater understanding of what a modern music identity needs to do to achieve industry success.

Looking into Denney’s humble beginning s as a promoter for night called Future before moving up the ranks and into other city’s this really set Denney firmly on his way into understanding the scene from the inside out, whilst allowing him to meet many of the most prominent characters. He openly discusses the politics and personal impacts of the lifestyle and also hosting top nights featuring the likes of Carl cox, Sasha and Fatboy Slim.

Denney first started DJing at age 13 and progressed into producing around 19, he has been touring consistently from 2011 and his last year’s highlights included an American profile residency where he also DJed alongside Roger Sanchez, he loved performing for the exciting Elrow in Ibiza at Amnesia and their Barcelona home, Eastern Electrics Festival, Gottwood and the final Secret Garden Festival.

Danny and Denney discuss the current and historical UK club territory and the city’s they feel impacted the most, name checking many legendary nights and their own Leeds connection. They then go on to share the strength of connections and the networking opportunities available if you immerse yourself into the scene, noting the friendships struck often lead into great label signings and suggesting how best to approach DJs and people you admire during the night or at the after-partys.

They are very open about the effects of a relentless lifestyle and cite Ben Pearce’s  open sharing on Why We DJ- Slaves To the Rhythm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFmfOSt2uCE&feature=youtu.be which has spearheaded many more people in the industry being open with advice, support and addressing their own issues. Denney discusses the importance of sleep and diet and notes he doesn’t even drink on tour to keep the balance admitting he also has suffered alongside much of the music and creative scene.

The final tips that Denney leaves us with are essential in a modern DJs arsenal informing us of the importance and power of social media and great video that can leverage your reach. He also suggests targeting specific audiences for your growth and reflects on his early days of producing up to 14-15 hour days honing his craft sharing that determination and dedication always govern everything else. He originally worked in call centers and retail before finding his love of music was what really drove him forward, aligning with other producers and even engineering for Buckley at the start. Denney shares the hot tip about mailing DJs with private soundcloud links in preference to zip files as it’s easier to access and instant (he also does the same).

 

A great podcast that’s informative and really gets behind the cogs of the music industry.

 Get to know more about Denney here and also check out his music:

www.facebook.com/DenneyMusic

http://soundcloud.com/denney

 

Tune in to the rest of the That Danny Savage Show podcasts and receive unique insights from DJs, Labels, Promoters and many from behind the scene including influencers, managers, marketers and more. That Danny Savage Show is available to listen, download, comment and share:

 

ITunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/that-danny-savage-show/id1334078981?mt=2

 

Soundcloud

https://soundcloud.com/thatdannysavage

 

Please join the DJ Growth Lab Community a facebook group dedicated to giving the skills and information to people wanting to break into the music industry.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/djgrowthlab/

https://www.facebook.com/ThatDannySavage/

www.dannysavage.com

 

All enquiries and feedback to:

 [email protected]

Press / Media:

[email protected]

 

Please support our friends and partners at:

 

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Foundation – A charity creating opportunities & fundraising initiatives to enable the dance music industry to help children in crisis.

www.lastnightadjsavedmylife.com

 

Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) – A not-for-profit trade association created to represent the common interests of those companies and individuals whose business is Electronic Music and to advocate best practice for the genre.

https://www.associationforelectronicmusic.org

Electric Mode Magazine – Electronic Music News & Network

Providing the best news about the electronic music industry including music reviews, music news, clubs, events, Ibiza club news, DJs, labels and more. Covering the hottest Electronic music events and festivals from house to techno, disco, deep house, tech house and minimal.

www.electric-mode.co.uk

The Everyday AgencyA creative marketing agency that provides Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Design, PR, Social Media Strategy, SEO to the international music industry.

 www.everydayagency.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Podcasts

Josh Butler, That Danny Savage Show, Collaborating with heroes & The Steps To Success

 That Danny Savage Show –  Guest Josh Butler (DJ & Producer) – Musical Motivation & The Steps To Success

Danny Savage engages Josh Butler on his actual birthday to discuss his own humble beginnings before he become a household name, widely regarded as a house music aficionado in the current music scene. They touch base on his in-house recording label Origins Records and what it’s taken to connect the dots to build a successful career recognised across the world.

Looking into the backstory of Josh and his foundations for a model to keep moving forward in the industry Danny discusses what has worked for him and what strategic steps you should take if you want to understand the process as an upcoming DJ or producer.

The guys lift the lid on the overall concept that governs the sound and roots of the Origins brand and the collaboration series he built alongside industry legends Marshall Jefferson, Kerri Chandler and Todd Terry to name only a few key figureheads. Josh discusses his viewpoint on the collectives aim to bridge the generation gap and make music standout in a sustainable way. He looks back into his early days in Manchester where he first met and worked with Marshall Jefferson in the studio, whilst also gaining a universal respect from the old school and the American house legends that have built the genre from the ground up.

Bringing it into the present Josh reflects on his 2017 highlights touring America again, his own ADE parties and a solid 15 dates spread across the Ibiza season.

Josh goes on to inform of his approach to partying and touring which has now been superseded by a gym, wellness and diet regime with a resounding chill-out allocation to rebalance the time on the road and stay at the peak of his game, citing the limited health food options on tour or airports and the serious lack of sleep that can take its toll.

To gain a greater understanding that people really can rise up the ranks the guys discuss that although Josh originally hailed from the UK in his teens his family moved to small town in New Zealand which was very removed from the music scene although it did have some positive attributes in a beautiful surrounding. His connection came in the form of music production which took over from playing computer games and other hobbies and allowed him to keep up-to-date with his homeland UK with Pete Tong and Radio 1 live from the net.

Again Josh shows that educate featured highly in really marking a major change for him, at age 16 he returned to UK where he attended college for a music technology course which paved the way to grasp careers in music actually existed. His positioning between Liverpool and Manchester which were abundant in clubs and awash with house he started out running his own nights albeit college party’s for a nominal £2 entrance but a consistent platform to DJ leading into the birthday party route as a source of income but blended from a mix of styles to entertain. Josh notes that running your own nights is always highly beneficial that provides an industry entry platform teaching you the mechanics of a crowd and essential programming skills.

His forays into clubland as a career DJ started out cutting his teeth at the Attic in Manchester before moving to Idiosync alongside some of todays coolest names including Tale Of Us and Marcel Dettman which transcend the underground to festival line-ups.

Production has always played a part in a DJs driving force and allowing them to reach a greater fanbase. Josh reminisced his breakthrough moment began with a release on OFF Recordings with Darius Syrossian and also released on his own imprint.  As a great take-away for listeners he shares that Agents and Managers started approaching once he gained traction to take him to a wider audience. It was really good to see that tracks made in his bedroom could really impact and his ascent began when NTA snatched up his first major track. Chase & Status also loved it and then invited him down to London to speak about the release which happened to be at Pete Waterman’s previous office space (a certified breeding ground for major hits coming from the likes of Madonna and Rick Astley and touting many gold discs under their belt.

Riding the wave after the release Josh saw regular bookings and a consistent pay stream which gives some further insight to todays producers wanting to grasp the timeline. Soon featuring across Europe and throughout the UK clubs his first Radio 1 and 1Xtra appearances became a shock but really sealed his future. In the interim Josh was still providing Ableton tutorials and engineering before turning to becoming self-reliant full time.

Danny takes the opportunity to quick fire out some unique questions firstly enquiring for Josh to name three key people that have influenced him in his life and musical career firstly reciting St Helens College which first connected him into the industry and its potential (so education featuring high), Kerri Chandler (on a Musical level) helping with experience and advice and obviously his Mum (on a personal level). Looking deeper into his influences Josh shares the turning point that provided him another level of knowledge to apply whilst gigging on a professional platform. After meeting with Kerri Chandler in Paris prior to an event he taught him about the crucial component of sound checking on spectrum mixer which was something technical he hadn’t previously entertained. Josh thankfully admits that he has learnt from everyone he ever worked with and name-checks a few on their collaborations, taking on software and production tips continually.

Many of the show guests point out their musical tastes outside of the electronic scene which often broadens the listens horizons or shares tracks they may have never heard. Josh connects with Pink Floyd, dub Reggae King Tubby and Mad Professor outside the standard house and techno box. Taking the opportunity to share 3 of his most memorable tunes Pink Floyd – Welcome To The Machine is mentioned as one of his longest standing memories since childhood, before

Massive Attacks – Unfinished Sympathy, where Danny notes it was actually his birthing music for the birth of his son Felix and taken from a standout Ibiza chill-out compilation. Returning back to his House roots Josh rolls out Atmospheric Beats by Kerri Chandler as one of the best house records ever written in a simple, yet stripped back power-filled emotive cut.

Looking into soundscapes and choice of elements that he enjoys and incorporates into his own musical style Josh interplays hooks from trance to baselines from hard-house and also strings sections from down-tempo arrangements to drive his dancefloor vibes. The one big purchase that has supported his career has got to be Ableton which also plays a centerpiece of most peoples studios and his unique piece of kit is the analogue Culture Vulture.

Something for producers to take note is that Josh’s biggest regret is not getting a specific lawyer to look over his hit record contracts and passes on advice about this. To keep the relativity to success he also shares that even the biggest names have lots of failures … especially in signing demos picking a standard 1 in 10 success rate.

After opening up the avenue for guest questions via his www.dannysavage.com blog Danny interjects with a query from Africa poised towards what keeps you consistent throughout the bad times (or lowpoints)?

Josh says the releases he works on often making 3-5 tracks which are kept on the workbench with the realization that some wont see the light, practicing and keeping standards high and using that consistency as a template. Providing a way to combat writers block he suggests you take time and not force the production process, totally switching off and then returning with a fresh and  inspirational spark. His Studio routine is pretty much fuelled on tea and next turning on the machines before settling into the mood with no strict rule to the format until the song takes shape.

Next questions comes in from a DJ formerly living in Bulgaria and now UK seeking advice on upcoming DJs and how they address getting gigs in preference to handing out traditional business cards. The guys both share that anything that stands out of the ordinary normally helps and in preference using a cd (USB) mix or track you’ve made alongside building a network of friends in clubs and bars of like minded people with a common goal. This reminds Danny of his old-school and classic promotional angles from Leeds and they both actively discuss the concept as a CDs being the actual calling card or flyer so to speak, suggesting DJs need to reach outside the box to standout and stick in people’s memories.

Looking at his future plans and longevity Josh answers in 5 years time he foresees continuing to make the music he enjoys and keep the label activity progressing with more events across UK, Europe and USA for his own brand and the Heroes of House legends party.

The following question is considered a relevant one in regards to climbing up the Beatport chart within a smaller label and Josh actually references one of his and Bontan’s own hits reaching number 1 on their own independent before it was a known entity, proposing that if the music’s good it always speaks for itself, something highly motivational for todays fledgling music makers.

All DJs have character and Danny pushes Josh to share something we don’t already know about the international DJ providing some welcome comedy to the mix Josh tells that he used to be obsessed with Coronation Street (a long-running tv series in the UK).

To finalise on an aspirational note its suggested Josh Butler pictures an inspirational quote placed hypothetically in DJ Mag and one we’ll soon see as a Danny Savage / DJ Growth Lab meme “Don’t compromise for anybody, do what you love!” in a very exacting tone which will certainly reassure the shows global listeners.

Hot predictions for 2018 includes a vibrant mix of upcoming artists and younger producers all breaking through. Heritage clubbing landsapes will possibly flip with the focus of Ibiza rolling downhill on the musical front (which Danny questions) and taking in Croatia as the next clubbing destination spot. After sharing his suggestions for the change of territory Josh admits he already has a connection with Croatia and once again this year servicing the Defected festival in Tisno (recently completing a mix for their radio show that was specifically beach inspired), one alongside Dennis Ferrer in Zagreb, before jetting off to Australia and New Zealand in February getting to see loads of friends out there and also his family and the festivals they offer on that side of the world.

Reflecting on family both host Danny Savage and also guest Josh Butler have included their fathers into their own events so Josh could showcase what he does and also Danny’s dad actually becoming the unwitting host and driver for many notable guest DJs over the years including the Martinez Brothers where they struck a solid friendship. Now they both prefer to catch up socially in preference to the backdrop of clubbing with Danny’s father joining him in hos trip to climb Kilimanjaro for charity this year.

Another solid podcast that highlights that hard work, dedication and also a well grounded approach seems to be the consistent thread for many DJ successes. Prepare for the next round as Danny introduces some engaging new guests that share their industry insights and their own unique viewpoints on what makes the musical world move.

 

Get to know more about Josh Butler here and also check out his music:

 

https://www.facebook.com/joshbutlermusic/

http://soundcloud.com/joshbutler

 

Tune in to the rest of the That Danny Savage Show podcasts and receive unique insights from DJs, Labels, Promoters and many from behind the scene including influencers, managers, marketers and more. That Danny Savage Show is available to listen, download, comment and share:

 

ITunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/that-danny-savage-show/id1334078981?mt=2

 

Soundcloud

https://soundcloud.com/thatdannysavage

 

Please join the DJ Growth Lab Community a facebook group dedicated to giving the skills and information to people wanting to break into the music industry.

 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/djgrowthlab/

https://www.facebook.com/ThatDannySavage/

www.dannysavage.com

 

All enquiries and feedback to:

[email protected]

 

Press / Media:

[email protected]

 

Please support our friends and partners at:

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Foundation – A charity creating opportunities & fundraising initiatives to enable the dance music industry to help children in crisis.

www.lastnightadjsavedmylife.com

 

Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) – A not-for-profit trade association created to represent the common interests of those companies and individuals whose business is Electronic Music and to advocate best practice for the genre.

https://www.associationforelectronicmusic.org

 Electric Mode Magazine – Electronic Music News & Network

Providing the best news about the electronic music industry including music reviews, music news, clubs, events, Ibiza club news, DJs, labels and more. Covering the hottest Electronic music events and festivals from house to techno, disco, deep house, tech house and minimal.

www.electric-mode.co.uk

The Everyday Agency – A creative marketing agency that provides Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Design, PR, Social Media Strategy, SEO to the international music industry.

 www.everydayagency.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Podcasts

Ben Pearce, Music, Motivation & Mental Health

That Danny Savage Show – Interview Ben Pearce (DJ & Producer) – Discussing Music & Mental Health

Inside this episode of That Danny Savage Show podcast series we hear from electronic innovator Ben Pearce who speaks candidly about what motivates him and has also influenced him on his own personal journey on the way to the top. You’ll receive some hot music industry navigation tips related back to Ben’s own timeline servicing the scene and also learn what has impacted him professionally. Ben Pearce shares some very personal moments from the rollercoaster ride spanning his illustrious career with many highs and lows relating to pressure, touring and mental health.

Danny Savage and Ben connect on a mix of subjects including cooking after Ben hosted his own ‘supper club’ sharing he classes cooking as his meditation and informs also his second passion. Ben then provides further thoughts into combining cooking with his music so stayed tuned for what the future holds in this combination.

 Reflecting back the first musical experiences he remembers indie bands like Limp Bizkit which contradicts his classical music originals with his dad, but led into Hip-Hop (as a skater) before engaging with the electronica scene around the time he very first took narcotics around age of 18 (this spearheads another issue as his career progresses). Eventually touching everywhere from ambient to jazz Ben extends his musical knowledge which assist with his production.

Looking back at early club events at Sankey’s and Area51, Danny and Ben find common ground around the same time Danny Savage was promoting Filth. This kickstarts Ben Pearce sharing he first borrowed decks before learning to DJ on a whim

as it actually paid for his weekends ‘party’ life. This led him into promotions handing out flyers as an entry point to the nightlife industry. Ben soon started promoting his own event Treehouse in Manchester where he shares promoter politics, where he fell out with the other brands but now realises it was for the best.

 

Initially learning to mix with 2 x copies of Micha Moore ‘Space’ Ben soon moved onto production releasing a few minor tracks before his big track ‘What I might do’ broke.

The time away from promoting gave him the motivation to prove himself as a solo artist. He acknowledges he was a manager at an RBS call centre whilst DJing over the weekends abroad, balancing both jobs for 3 months so understands the first few years are never easy. Thankfully his parents always supported him with his music and once he started earning more money from DJing than his the full-time job the transition became easier. Rag from Grade Management heard him play and quickly got picked up early and they signed him across to Coda agency which really leveraged his career.

Ben instantly suggests agents are pro-active in seeking DJs for the next big thing, giving open advice on choosing the right agency to suit your skills and sound, noting a smaller agency often pays more attention to your growth than some of the bigger agencies. Ben shares- “Dont push it. Do you see yourself as a marketable product?” If your’e a DJ you have to produce to make a mark with aims to get a residency to build your profile and following. Social media matters, extending your name across blogs and soundcloud with a solid belief in yourself … don’t feel down or annoyed when you get rejected, he also gets rejected loads. You need to be OK with failure, it’s a part of the industry.

Delving deeper into his own character, Ben Pearce shares he’s a DJ first and a producer in second (strangely he doesn’t class himself as good producer) which we don’t agree. Looking at is own productions he pulls them together re-asserting you have to make your own tracks to have a marketable commodity if you want to be a DJ worthy of note…. Suggesting no one actually listens to mixes anymore, getting a track heard is a lot easier.

His production tip includes making the bare bones structure and then getting an accomplished engineer to mix it. Joe Ashworth engineers his tracks, although he would never suggest the ghost producer route, as it sits poorly within the industry. You have to do something to stand out as a DJ these days far above technical ability.

Ben’s advice to start producing: Use Ableton, practice filtering and chopping up tunes at first and watching Youtube to learn the initial skills. Your first 100 tracks you make won’t be great but they will progress. Try sampling and remixing getting stems available online with easy to use hardware like Roland or Korg mini tools if you have the resources. Make sure what you do you enjoy it and put the time in, making sure you learn your craft which could take years, this is a consistent theme throughout these podcasts. Ben shows your approach should be to hit the ground running and stay positive, going to places for training like Youtube, Point Blank, Masterclass or surrounding yourself with others that are good at producing (sssociate with people that are better than you).

 

The tone then moves to the effects and an introspective of the industry:

Sharing on a personal note as an example Ben tells Danny he often lacks motivation 90% of the time throughout his productions ; suffering self-doubt which followed after making his major track because he didn’t think he was good enough. The outlook shows that  motivation comes & goes and If you get a block, take yourself away, have a break and come back the next day with fresh eyes and ears. Something to note is “Producers only put out 1% of what they release” – Moodyman quote. So your next good track could only be around the corner.

 

Insight for producers comes via Ben’s timeline as a Case Study:

Ben made the initial structure in his own bedroom before arranging and mixing at Beehive Mills. He then put it in a mix and David from Under The Shade messaged him on Soundcloud and signed it immediately. It actually needed tidying up, so he revisited the arrangement and made the bassline better which became a hit. It almost went out on white label vinyl which could have changed it’s direction. His friend Stretford Dogs Club had Solomun playing for him in Manchester and Solomun heard it in the car on the way to his gig, loved it and starter playing it regularly. Will from Chase & Status called him after hearing it played in Panorama Bar in Berlin, funnily enough he thought it was originally a stitch up, with a mate winding him up after hearing the feedback.

NTA signed and Ben split his 50% with Under The Shade. The track next featured in a Tesco advert before reaching Beatport number 1 and becoming the most Shazzamed track in the UK for 3 to 4 years. Virgin then signed it an re-released moving it into number 7 in the UK national charts, number 1 in Italy and also number 2 in Belgium.

Talking about touring and Mental Health:

Bookings and schedules went crazy, doing interviews with TV channels, radio and more. He went head on into 3 or 4 gigs per week, partying and didn’t look after himself, feeling under surmountable pressure. The lack of sleep and traveling on his own in hotels and airports really started to impact his health and also coming from club environment. After an extended amount of time, Ben realised he wasnt happy and started drinking a lot , he didn’t want to burden anyone else talking about his depression. Reflecting if he didnt take the time off, he wouldn’t actually be here today with suicidal tendencies. He was scared of being alone and really didn’t want to go off travelling again, moving into a downward spiral. He was offered anti-depressants but didn’t want to take them.

 

Thankfully his best friend moving in saved him with support and advice where necessary. He really needed the time off to recoup, when he cancelled his shows it was just to let his fans know, not expecting it to blow up in news channels like it did, it was announced across the national papers. Sharing his Facebook post was a sincere action, Ben notes it was all very unexpected, not wanting to reflect any more after his break not including it in interviews but now he is far more open offering advice “Talk about it. If it feels like it’s going down, it will eventually go back up.”

Ben’s suggest

  • Get a therapist
  • Calm zone helpline

He himself actively helps musicians he works with, doing panels with a study about music industry mental health there are now many resources online including https://www.grammy.com/musicares/news/study-shows-70-percent-musicians-struggled-anxiety-or-depression. There was a new service launched in December that has really helped the broader industry. He feels the after-math of Chester Beddingtons suicide made people more widely aware.

The AFEM Association For Electronic Music provides an industry sounding board to help change the perception and address issues collectively (link below). Looking at key aspects that should be communicated:

  • Promoters: Don’t be offended when DJs aren’t wanting to party
  • Electronic music was originally founded and fuelled on drug usage, this as a theme needs to be addressed.
  • Drugs and Mental Health talks should be held separately and not inter-linked
  • Alcohol is far more destructive than drugs to society

An insightful preview everyone should watch is Why We DJ- Slaves To the Rhythm

Ben Pearce actually features in here and is open for the benefit of the industry.

Looking at the long term impacts Ben shares that he’s not 100% recovered and still has the down days, but is now more aware of the dips and what to do when they happen. When he doesn’t spend money on boosting social media posts he feels down from being detached from his fans and this is part of the reward system you’re mind can promote. He informs people should move away from spamming and into more direct contact with their true fans to help forming a better connection and interaction. Highlighting key facts that Silicon Valley people support that social media is actually bad for you, they don’t use it directly as it’s potentially poisonous and holds many negative traits we are only starting to witness now.

The Resolution & Roundup:

Returning to the musical mix Ben and Danny Discuss the new themed EP about Dancing Astronauts and Ben’s Radio 1 Essential Mix feature http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08p60l8 which funnily enough Ben didn’t even know what it was until he was older as he didn’t experience it in childhood and was heavily into metal in his teens, so he just treated it like a normal DJ mix, putting in the same effort and energy he always does in hindsight a great approach. He never actually prepares a playlist, he always plays on-the-fly after studying the crowd and DJs featuring beforehand when at a gig.

Ben Pearce’s parting thoughts are to spend time with people that make you happy and only do things that make you happy. Something we can all learn great value from.

Get to know more about Ben Pearce here and also check out his music:

New residency in Manchester:

https://lazylizardmanchester.com/brand/ben-pearce-renegades/

Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/benpearcemusic/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/ben-pearce-productions

 

Tune in to the rest of the That Danny Savage Show podcasts and receive unique insights from DJs, Labels, Promoters and many from behind the scene including influencers, managers, marketers and more. That Danny Savage Show is available to listen, download, comment and share:

 

ITunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/that-danny-savage-show/id1334078981?mt=2

 Soundcloud

https://soundcloud.com/thatdannysavage

Please join the DJ Growth Lab Community a facebook group dedicated to giving the skills and information to people wanting to break into the music industry.

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www.dannysavage.com

 

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[email protected]

 

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Please support our friends and partners at:

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Foundation – A charity creating opportunities & fundraising initiatives to enable the dance music industry to help children in crisis.

www.lastnightadjsavedmylife.com

 

Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) – A not-for-profit trade association created to represent the common interests of those companies and individuals whose business is Electronic Music and to advocate best practice for the genre.

https://www.associationforelectronicmusic.org

Electric Mode Magazine – Electronic Music News & Network

Providing the best news about the electronic music industry including music reviews, music news, clubs, events, Ibiza club news, DJs, labels and more. Covering the hottest Electronic music events and festivals from house to techno, disco, deep house, tech house and minimal.

www.electric-mode.co.uk

The Everyday AgencyA creative marketing agency that provides Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Design, PR, Social Media Strategy, SEO to the international music industry. www.everydayagency.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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