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 the Great White North: Montréal’s rampaging bass practitioner SNAILS (aka Frédérik Durand).
What’s it like where you are? I won’t lie – things are feeling mega-surreal right now. In Montreal, all non-essential businesses are closed. Like so many others, Montrealers are asked to practice social distancing and stay home. For me, that’s turned into lots of uninterrupted studio time… and video games.
Have you lost income-producing work? Yes. I was really stoked to bring my set to Beyond Wonderland (California), and the Snailed It Party (Miami), but I totally support the decision to postpone these events. Safety is always a priority for me. Health comes first, always.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I’m lucky in a sense. The first couple months of the year are always a period of recharging and creation for me. I’ve been spending all my time in the studio these days, creating new music and brainstorming some exciting projects for my label, Slugz Music. In today’s streaming world, it’s really about the quality of the music you’re putting out there. I want to produce the best music I can, the rest will follow.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? I’m working on the quality of my music. I think that art makes life better – it allows people to escape. Working, and defining my sound right now is constructive to my career and my role as an artist. I want to help people feel good in these crazy times.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? It’s made me appreciate my family and friends for sure. Calls, Facetimes, texts… I feel close to them even though we’re so far. I’m also surprised at just how much music I can get done in quarantine.
Have you considered doing anything online? Have you seen anything you like? Yeah, I’ve seen Dillon Francis and Subtronics do their thing. What a great way to keep spirits up! I’m actually working on my concept right now. Expect something from me soon!
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? Umm, “The End” by The Doors [laughs] and The Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive.”
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I know it’s not easy, but we all have a social responsibility to protect our communities. Do things that make you happy. Read a book, watch movies, play lots of video games… listen to SNAILS on Spotify [laughs]. Stay safe guys – love you all.
To check out more Life in Lockdown features, click here.
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