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 installment, this time from L.A., EDM luminary Party Favor (aka Dylan Ragland).
What’s it like where you are? Here in L.A., it’s “shelter in place” and no going out except for essentials. I definitely am getting cabin fever [laughs]. I have my studio at my place, so I am lucky to still feel that semblance of normal life.
What income-producing work have you lost? All of my shows are cancelled/postponed for the foreseeable future, and that impacts my entire team – managers, tour manager, agents, etc.). Had some big festivals that are now cancelled and shows in Mexico and Asia planned. It bums me out, but I know there are many people hurting much more than me.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I have been very fortunate to have a lot of my songs get synced in movies, TV shows and commercials, so I have been working on that avenue – and then any sales from music streaming and merch sales will still come through during this time.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? Practicing the piano. I am also challenging myself to produce a beat a day. No genre or vibe rules… just creating. It has really made me enjoy making music again. And I think it is taking me out of my habits I have made over the past couple years.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? Two things: How much I miss being around people and feeding off the energy of the crowd and other people. Also, time flies, for some reason, when you are stuck at home. I would have thought the exact opposite [laughs].
What are you doing online now? Here I am at the Beyond Wonderland Virtual Rave-A-Thon. Also, I have got my streaming set up all ready to go for YouTube and Twitch, and I have done a few Instagram Lives so far. I am excited to engage with my fans in a new way. Going to do some videos where I am producing and interacting real-time, while people watch me make a beat.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? “Mad World” by Gary Jules & Michael Andrews.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I think in our world nowadays people are always “on,” especially on social media. I think many people will have a chance to find what’s really important. Many people’s livelihoods stopped seemingly overnight, so that’s added stress. Everyone can challenge themselves to learn something or read something new, etc. I think finding any way to better yourself during this time is the best thing to do. Hopefully, this can be a reset if you’re able.
To check out more Life in Lockdown features, click here.
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