When the Coronavirus shut us down, clubs and festivals ceased, and everyone was essentially forced inside with no definitive end in sight, DJ Times wondered: How is our tribe coping? How are DJs getting by? So, we sent out our “Coronavirus Questionnaire” to DJ/producers from all musical genres to find out.
During the crisis, DJ Times will be presenting the questionnaire responses from talented music-makers from all over the world. Here’s our latest Stateside installment: L.A.-based eclectic DJ/artist Mija.
What’s it like where you are? In Los Angeles, where I live, there is a city-wide lockdown – “essential” businesses only. I am social-distancing and spending every day at home streaming on Twitch, painting, DJing, and playing Animal Crossing.
Have you lost income-producing work? I had invested a lot of money into my live tour, which included a full band, two opening bands, a mini tour-bus situation, and tons of upfront costs (rehearsals, gear rentals, etc.). On top of that, the festivals were all cancelled – those fees I rely on to support my band’s budget. By cancelling the tour, it definitely put me back a few years financially.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I can do production work, remixes, or whatever to supplement some income. I’ve primarily been focusing on streaming, though.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? I’m always making art, but right now I am just chilling and trying not to stress too much. That’s probably the most constructive thing in order to keep my sanity.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I’m surprised that there are still people partying and not giving a fuck – it’s insane.
Have you considered doing anything online? I did a DJ stream on my Twitch page recently, as well as Insomniac’s virtual rave in replacement of Beyond Wonderland.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? Of Montreal’s “The Past is a Grotesque Animal.”
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Find something to do, anything to stay busy. Stay informed, but don’t read too much news – otherwise, your brains will explode.
To check out more Life in Lockdown features, click here.
DJ Times Magazine is copyright © 2020 by DJ Publishing, Inc. www.djtimes.com
