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 this period, DJ Times will continue presenting the questionnaire responses from talented music-makers from all over the world. Here’s our latest entry, this time from L.A., the mysterious pop-EDM talent Pillows.
What’s it like where you’re living now? How did you spend most of your time during the lockdown? Lockdown has been very serious in L.A. I was kind of already self-isolating before everything happened, so not too much has changed in my day-to-day. I’ve always dedicated most of my time to music from my cozy home studio – in my snuggly onesie, of course. I still stay in the studio until 3 or 4 a.m., chill out, order delivery food, and enjoy exercising –except now I don’t go to the gym and, instead, go for hikes. That said, the lockdown has given me a great excuse to channel more of my energy into creative songwriting and producing. Not DJing or socializing has been hard, but I now have bigger chunks of time to put my head down and work without interruption.
Have you lost important gigs, or income-producing work? My first headlining gig as part of my residency at Omnia Nightclub in San Diego was scheduled for March 16th. I was so excited. Sadly, it was cancelled amidst the growing uncertainty around the pandemic. Just like my fellow producers and DJs in the industry, additional club and festival gigs were eventually put on-hold/cancelled, too.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I’m also a topline writer and am fortunate to earn royalties. Plus, I have some new collaborations coming!
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? For example, any releases during this period? Spending even more time in the studio recording and producing has allowed me to put together some amazing new projects. I’ve released 7 singles this year, including my most recent “Walkaway” and “Real Love” on Parametric Records/Atlantic Records. I have even more chilled-out, snuggle-ready music coming soon on Parametric!
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? This period of social distancing has given me perspective on so many things. How much I enjoy the outdoors. How blessed we are. It’s taught me to be grateful for things that I may have previously taken for granted. To push past roadblocks and turn something that may seem limiting into a bigger, better opportunity. Also, true friendships shine brighter lately. I made a pact with a few of my best friends to form a (socially distant) “snuggle squad.” We check in on each other, lift each other up and make the most out of the current situation. It’s important to have a support network – and friends to pillow fight!
Have you done anything online recently? Have you seen any DJ video streams that impressed you? I’ve decided to focus more on music production than live streams, but I liked watching Martin Garrix Live on Dutch Waters. That was really cool! I think I like the drive-in concert concept more. I would love to play a show like that.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? Yes, I’ve been listening to Stardust’s “Music Sounds Better with You” and Room 5’s “Make Luv” feat. Oliver Cheatham. I also found “Think About Things” by Daði Freyr on TikTok. I love the track and all of the funny quarantine dances!
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I think it’s important to get fresh air, responsibly. Going for a walk or a hike is a good way to relieve stress and find inner peace. Avoid difficult commitments, like cleanses or giving up alcohol, that might make an already challenging time even harder! Stay present and don’t set yourself up for disappointment. Snuggle up with your pillow and re-charge. Relax to chilled-out music and meditate. Also, foster a pet or buy some plants! Both can be very healing/soothing and will help take your mind off things.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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