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 Sweden, the Stockholm-based electronic talent Cazzette aka Alexander Björklund (pictured) and Sebastian Furrer.
What’s it like where you’re living? I`ve been in Sweden since March. I left to write an album and haven’t been able to travel back to Los Angeles where I normally reside. Sweden has been very open, yet wary of the situation, which makes it a pretty great place to be. If I’m not in the studio, I stroll the forests. It’s a very bizarre and inspiring time.
What income-producing work have you lost? Yeah, a lot of shows are cancelled, which is hard because it’s my main source of income. But I consider myself fortunate and look at this as an opportunity to finish an album or two, so that I can double up on the touring when clubs open up. I’m really excited to be able to play a two- or three-hour set with exclusive Cazzette music.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I did join SoundBetter as an ego challenge and to develop myself as a producer. It’s great because suddenly you are supposed to do musical work that is out of your comfort zone – yet my experience allows me to get those gigs. It’s been rewarding.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? I move on. Before, I was hung up on a song and would be stubborn and try and finish something, even if I didn’t feel it. I guess I switched to the “Elton John method.” If the idea isn’t there in 20 minutes, toss it and move on.
Any new releases? Yes, “Push the Tempo (Extended Mix)” just came out.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I’m an introvert, so I don’t mind the social-distancing yet. I also learned how much we are all connected and that I really do need to get out more and socialize.
Did you consider doing anything online like a Facebook Live mix? Have you seen any DJ video streams that impressed you? Nora En Pure’s stream impressed me. I’ve done a couple and there is more to come. Sadly, all my DJ gear is in Los Angeles.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? I love “I Ain’t Got No” by David Penn & KPD at the moment.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Never forget that everything is temporary… ebb and flow.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
