We sat down with Canadian producer Julian Dzeko to discuss his new track, fashion and what’s in store for 2017. He’s had an incredible year after being taken under the wing by his mentor and superstar dance DJ Tiesto, the up and coming producer has taken residency at Hakkasan in Las Vegas, as well as playing at Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland and EDC Las Vegas.
You’ve Released Your New Track Heart Speak with TOKA-J. Can you give us a bit of information about the track and how did the collaboration come about?
The track is something I think is a little different right now. It has lots of cool elements to it that makes the drop feel very energetic. Musical Freedom set up the collaboration with the amazing vocalist TOKA-J. Hopefully, we can work together again in the future I’m really happy with the outcome of the track.
Who influences you musically/who did you listen to growing up?
The first that comes to mind that I am musically inspired by are Tiesto, The Chainsmokers, and W&W. There is always a lot going on in the music world that can really be stimulating. It’s nice to hear a wide variety of music to get ideas of how to incorporate different genres. Artists that influence me the most make songs that are memorable and have a true backstory. I listen to all kinds of music and a lot of my DJ friends also make amazing tracks, there would be way too many to list. Everyone artist inspires me in his or her own way. The key for me is to not just listen to great music but dig deep and try to play the stuff exactly as the artist does. I take one song that I really dig and try to figure out and nail all the little nuances and feel of the artist. It really opens my up my mind when I’m in the studio to new ideas.
If you could collaborate with another artist, past or present, who would it be?
I think I would have to say Post Malone. He is probably my favorite artist out there right now. His music is super catchy, enjoyable fusion of hip-hop, rock, and country mixed into certain tracks; he has incredible vocals all around musically talented. He also plays guitar and a variety of other instruments.
How did you get into music?
I started getting into music at a young age. I played trombone in elementary school and here I am. Things change but creative people evolve and it all starts somewhere. Later I started also working with Luis Torres and we began producing and touring together around the world.
Can you describe your sound?
I feel like I’m still working on that right now and still developing!
When did you first realize you could make a career in music?
I realized when I didn’t have to work a part-time job or full-time job anymore and just work full time on music, which has always been my passion.
What song have you been listening to on repeat at the moment?
Post Malone ft. 21 savage – Rockstar
You’ve played at some incredible events such as Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, and EDC Las Vegas, but where is your most memorable DJ set?
Honestly, that’s a tough one to answer! They were all amazing. I will always remember playing L’amour Toujours for the first time at Tomorrowland! It was an awesome feeling seeing how the crowd reacted to it.
What is the most memorable performance you’ve ever seen?
My first ever Tiësto show! After that show is when I decided to pursue Djing.
What does a typical day in the life of Dzeko look like when you’re not creating music?
I love playing sports: Tennis, Basketball, and Hockey.
So what have you been up to this summer?
I have been working in the studio a lot and I had the opportunity to open for Tiësto for most of the summer in Vegas, which really made my summer incredible.
What else have you got in store for 2017?
I am just trying to get lots of music ready for the end of this year and for 2018! I have a Tiesto collaboration coming out October 6th so I’m really pumped for that.
Where can we see you playing next?
For the rest of the year, I have most gigs in Canada and doing some support dates in the US in November.
Drink of choice on a night out?
My go to is Tequila with pineapple.
Favourite film or TV series?
Shark Tank.
Describe yourself in three words?
Ambitious, Devoted & Optimistic.
Who’s your biggest style & fashion inspiration?
Virgil Abloh! I think off-white is such a sick brand and have been a fan of it since it started. Virgil is also a friend of mine he’s a sick DJ also! I also love the creative process behind the Adidas and Kappa approach they took on the fashion industry!
Give us your best chat up line?
I meet people organically. That’s how friendships and relationships are built. I wouldn’t say I have a chat up line haha.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to make a career in music?
My best advice is work as hard as you can and don’t give up. Try to go out also and watch other artists’ perform whether it’s DJing or just a live show. I used to go out to watch other DJs perform to learn and it was also inspiring to hear how each artist transitions, opens or closes a set. You can always learn from past music as well so sometimes I go back into the past and take old sounds and change them.
You can hear Dzeko’s new track below:
