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 is presenting the questionnaire responses from talented music-makers from all over the world. Here’s our latest entry, this time from the seaside resort town of Brighton, English house-music maker Kideko (aka Ryan Hurley).
What’s it like where you are? We’ve had great weather here in Brighton over the last few days – I’m currently sitting in my studio. It seems to be easing up a bit here, but still very much social distancing. I’ve spent most of lockdown working from a small MIDI keyboard and headphones setup with my laptop, so I’m excited to be back at my main studio space again.
What income-producing work have you lost? As I’m sure most people have, I’ve had to cancel some shows. I guess we’re all clueless as to when we’ll be back and able to do shows again, but I think it’s been good to see people get creative with DJing without doing proper venue shows.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I’ve done a couple of remixes. I’ve been considering doing some sample-pack work, but I’m yet to delve into that… but I think it would be fun to do at some point. Maybe an OnlyFans account?
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? Well, here’s my latest single, a collab with Armand Van Helden called “The Fire,” so there’s that… Also, I’ve had the idea of starting my own label for a while, so this has given me a bit of time to focus on building that and working out what I really want it to be. I’ve also been focusing more on social-media content which is undeniably important. I’m also more aware of how important it actually is to take breaks from music – even going for a walk and getting outside for a short time is really good for creativity.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? How much I love eating out. But seriously, I’ve realized how much we take everyday things for granted – things like next-day delivery and being able to go to get your favorite coffee.
Have you considered doing anything online? Have you seen any DJ’s video streams that impressed you? Yes, I’ve done a few live streams. Some just on my socials for fun, but also a couple for other brands that are doing virtual festivals and raising money for charities, which is great. I like to see people get creative with them and it’s a good way to interact with people. The Defected ones have been great and also Calvin Harris has done some good ones.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? I want to choose something to dance to since this current situation has had a global affect and we’re all feeling it. I’m gonna go for a favorite of mine: Daft Punk’s “Around The World.”
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I’ve found exercise has helped keep me sane, if I have felt a bit low during this time… also making a bit more effort to check in with friends and family over the phone/online. I think it’s a great time to spend some time doing a hobby that you’ve always wanted to do, whatever that may be. But it’s also important to relax and take time off. Most importantly, stay safe.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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