Dutch Bass

There aren’t too many people in the world who wouldn’t recognise the name Tiësto today, but even back when Tijs Michiel Verwest was just another DJ spinning at clubs in his native Breda, the Netherlands, his peers and producers knew he would one day make it to the top of the EDM/Progressive House ladder.

After performing his first set in the Indian subcontinent in Hyderabad in 2008, Tiësto will be returning to the Gachibowli Stadium this Saturday, 19 December, as part of his Sunburn Arena tour of India. In an interview with Deccan Chronicle, Tiësto talks about his music, how his collaborations with others have influenced him over the years and how even at 46 he doesn’t see his career ending any time soon.

Q You’re credited as being the first DJ to have his own live concert. How does it feel to have spawned and spearheaded what’s now one of the world’s most popular forms of music?
It’s a humbling experience. I remember when I was 30, I thought I would stop in the next five years. Now, I’m 46. I do think I will be done at one point but I also think that as long as people like me, I can remain relevant, and the music is good, I will keep doing this.  I have been DJing in clubs for years. I always dreamed to be a famous DJ in the Netherlands. And now, it’s worldwide. I still can't believe it myself.

Q Over the span of your career, you’ve collaborated with many DJs and music producers. Who would you pick as your favourite?
The best part about collaborations is that you get to learn different types of genres, meet new people who turn into friends. The most memorable collaboration was with Martin Garrix along with partnerships with 7up and Spinning Records.

Q What inspires you and what kind of an environment do you best work in?
I can honestly say that the fans inspire me. There’s an unexplainable rush when I’m in the middle of a set and the energy from the fans hit me. I also get really inspired through collaborations. I’ve learnt so much from the emerging producers I’ve worked with just as they’ve learned from me.

Q How did it feel to have finally won a Grammy last year for your remix of John Legend’s All Of Me?
I give so much of myself when I’m in the DJ booth so this song was perfect. I wanted to give fans a special meaningful birthday treat and the lyrics just connected with me.

Q Who would you say are currently your three favourite EDM artistes?
Martin Garrix, Oliver Heldens and Hardwell are among the three artistes who I personally feel have a lot of talent and they are among my favourites.

Q Your first visit to India was way back in 2008 (in Hyderabad, notably), and have visited again after. What kind of response have you seen here in the country?
India is a magical place and I can’t wait to come back. My fans in India are always happy to see me and I feel the same way about them.

 

 

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