Life in Lockdown #19: Tchami | DJ Times Magazine

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 Paris: the collared, future-house star Tchami (aka Martin Bresso).

Tchami, Confession, Paris, FranceWhat’s it like where you’re living? I’ve been pretty much locked in since I came back from my Elevation Tour. Unfortunately, I couldn’t complete it, but there are some things that you don’t want to bet against. The world is on pause right now and I spend my days making music, reading and talking to my friends and family in France.

What kind of income-producing work have you lost? The major festivals, like Ultra and Coachella, were canceled or postponed, so… those. Also, the rest of the Elevation Tour was canceled.

Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Of course… I never stop making music and right now I’m finishing up my first album. From home, I’m able to do a lot. I stay connected.

What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? I want this album that I have been working on for the past year to be a stepping stone for me. It’s my first full-length project and I’m very excited to share it with the world.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? Normally, I take time off every day to meditate and just be with myself. I’m able to do that even more now and I feel very good about it. Having a clear and sharp mind is my goal in these troubled times.

Have you considered doing anything online? I’ve considered it. A lot of my gear is sitting in L.A. because I brought it on tour with me. Just trying to get it back ASAP and go on with the live stream from there.

Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? Here’s what I’ve been listening to recently: Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Daddy,” Knxledge’s “mylife,” Youandewan’s “1988,” Mr. Oizo’s “Vous Etes Des Animaux (Positif),” and Jacques’ “Dans La Radio.

Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I’d say read books, meditate, keep your routine and structure going as much as possible inside your own home. Accept what you can’t change, focus on what you can.

To check out more Life in Lockdown features, click here.