We caught up with Aussie DJ, Producer & songwriter tyDi to talk about his new album, summer plans and why he could eat Sashimi for the rest of his life.
When did you first realise you could make a career in music?
When I was a 16 year old who’d only played a couple of DJ competitions and was suddenly invited to fly to another city and perform to 2000+ people. The promoter put me in a really nice hotel (which would make any teenager feel like a rockstar) – I thought “wow, this can really be my job”! Ever since then I’ve constantly challenged myself to keep progressing.
Name three artists you had on your playlist when you were younger?
Sasha, BT & The Used.
Where and when was your first ever live performance?
It was in Sydney Australia, I was extremely nervous as I was still in high school and had to sneak out on the weekend to do the show (my parents really didn’t want me to be in a club at that age!)
What’s the best part of being a DJ/Producer?
Getting to make original music from nothing but a concept in my head and then performing that song out to tens of thousands of people! Seeing everyone go crazy to something I made in my home studio… It’s really fulfilling!
If you could collaborate with one other artist, past or present, who would it be?
Probably Blink 182! I’ve been a lifetime fan… It would be incredible to work with people who I have admired my whole life. Also mixing a rock band with electronic music would be wild!
Your album Collide is now available to listen to. Can you give us some more information on the album, how it came about, how long it took to create, inspiration etc.
‘Collide’ has been a dream of mine for over 10 years. Ever since graduating with a music degree I’ve always wanted to create an electronic album that features an entire orchestral section. When I set out to make this album I started with a lot of songwriting and production ideas, but it wasn’t until I met Christopher Tin that I realised this dream of making it a classical / electronic hybrid was finally possible for me. Chris has won two GRAMMY’s for his work as a composer and he was extremely open to the idea of working with me. We spent a year collaborating on the project, the end result is just next level. It feels like dance music smashed together with an epic movie score. For me personally the whole project took 3 years to finish.
Which is your favourite song from the album?
Probably ‘Can’t Look Away’, I still listen to that song and it gives me chills!
Which is your favourite song from the album to play live?
‘Upside Down’ – The bass in that song is insane at a club / festival.
Other than your own, what song have you got on repeat at the moment?
‘Out Of My System’ by Youngr.
What has been your career highlight?
Finally releasing ‘Collide’! That album has been so long in the making, I still can’t believe it happened! Here in America it charted on Billboard for both top ‘dance / electronic’ album as well as top ‘classical’ albums. Seeing the one album doing well in such polar opposite charts is crazy, I’m pretty sure that has to be a world first…
What about a Lad’s holiday?
I wish! Right now I’m scoring music for two new Hollywood films… But a beach vacation would be brilliant.
Where and when was your most memorable performance and why?
A festival called ‘Paradiso’ in Seattle. About 20,000 people, all outdoors in this giant natural amphitheatre, the venue is absolutely stunning and the crowd had so much energy.
Where, when & who gave your most memorable performance and why?
Blink 182 doing a live rock concert, it was just so nostalgic.
You’re a DJ/Producer & head of A&R & 3 Beat so you’re pretty busy. So, how do you spend your down time?
Good question! I really don’t have much downtime sadly.
If I wasn’t a DJ I’d be…
A magician.
Favourite film & TV series?
Film – Lost in Translation. TV series – The Office.
Drink of choice on a night out?
Always tequila!
If you could have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sashimi, I never get sick of it.
Describe your style/fashion?
Pretty eclectic actually, I love mixing it up. I always go for comfort and quality
Who’s your biggest style inspiration?
Very hard question, I’m into anything that looks and feels good.
What would you wear on a night out?
It depends, if it’s a party I’ll wear nice jeans, shirt and a sweet jacket. At events I will always rock a nice tailored suit.
Who’s your dream girl?
My fiancee, I’m a very lucky man to have her!
What are you looking forward to most in 2018?
Well, right now I’m scoring the soundtrack for 2 movies, it’s my first time venturing into that world and I’m addicted.
Thanks for chatting to us tyDi!
