Tiësto

Photo - Guy Aroch

Since the launch of his career in 2001 with his first solo album, In My Memory, Dutch-born Tiesto has gone on to become the highest-paid DJ and record producer of electronic music in the world, and was the first DJ to play live on stage at the Olympic Games. MUZIK got the chance to catch up with the global phenomenon and ask him a few questions.

www.tiesto.com

@tiesto

Q: Voted ‘The Greatest DJ Of All Time’, your name is recognized even to those not a part of the EDM scene. How did you transition from being Tijs Michiel Verwest to ‘Tiesto’?

I was introduced to DJ-ing at age 12, my older brother and cousin were bedroom DJ’s and I was fascinated by the technology and the sounds.

Q: You recently released a mix tape entitled 'Club Life Volume 3: Stockholm. Can you speak a little of the influences and processes that went behind the production?

There are so many radio shows and podcasts out there these days so to me, this compilation had to be very special. As such, I wanted it to be heavily about my own original productions, collaborations and remixes. There’s so much on there that was unavailable anywhere else.

Q: Current favorite destination to relax?

Stockholm is one of my favorite places to work and relax. It has a perfect balance.

Q: You dedicated much time to Ibiza for work in the past, and now moved your residency to Hakkasan Nightclub in Vegas this year. How many days of the week do you play?

I play select weekends. Usually there’s a party at the Hakkasan club and then an outdoor afternoon party at Wet Republic.

Q: What do you do to recharge and stay inspired?

I travel a lot so I’m really inspired by the places I visit and the people I meet. I like to collaborate with artists as well because I find that to be very inspiring. There’s always time to learn and that never stops.

Q: Out of all the big music festivals you headlined and played at this year, which was the most memorable?

I thought that Ultra Music Festival and EDC Las Vegas were really incredible along with some of the typically great festivals in Europe.

I travel a lot so I’m really inspired by the places I visit and the people I meet. I like to collaborate with artists as well because I find that to be very inspiring.”

Q: Do you have a pre-show routine/regime?

Not really. I get to the venue and hang out backstage for a little bit. Maybe have a drink and meet with some local friends.

Q: Most memorable fan experience?

There’s not one experience. I find that my fans always surprise me by bringing me all sorts of homemade art, etc. Most recently I actually married a couple in Las Vegas which was really fun.

Q: We’ve seen your collaboration with the fashion brand, GUESS. Describe your personal style.

Smart and comfortable.

Q: Who are some young, up-and-coming DJs we should keep our eyes out for?

I like a lot of the guys I collaborated with on my new mix album. Artists like DJ Punish, Moti and Dyro.

Q: Where do you see the EDM movement in the next few years?

It’s only getting bigger and better. There’s so much enthusiasm and great music out there.

Q: Do you have any non-music related projects planned for the future?

Sure. But I can’t say right now. As you’ve seen with my Guess collections and AKG headphones I’m own to collaborate with products I love.

Q: You have played at Toronto venues in the past, will you consider dropping by MUZIK for work or play in the new year?

Sounds like fun!