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 the Left Coast, the Los Angeles-based grunge-house enthusiast Saint Punk.
How did you spend most of your pandemic time? Most of my time has been spent in the studio creating all of the music I have been putting out these last nine months, plus getting a start on my first album. Beyond locking myself in the studio, I have been cooking a lot more and taking more of a deep dive into good tequila.
Have things changed over time? It’s been up and down – it’s kind of weird. It’s been easier to stay at home, but it’s also gotten harder, if that makes any sense. You get used to it and adapt, but then, of course, FOMO kicks in when you see other countries doing well and having shows again. It’s definitely a marathon of emotions.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? I was scheduled for a 30-date support tour in the fall, which was crucial for my project, as I was continuing to put out one record per month. As we see more than ever, electronic music and live shows go hand in hand. I’ve been able to put a lot of music out during this pandemic, but it would have been awesome to play all of them live, as well.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Have you learned anything in the downtime? I just released my last piece of original music for 2020, “Light ’Em Up” on Thrive and my official remix for Ookay and Cesqeaux “The Pit” on The Woodwerk. Now I am fully committed to finishing my first album, which will come out in 2021. A lot of income for electronic artists comes from shows, so it’s been interesting to see how certain songs do when not paired with a live performance. I think 2021 will bring a lot of different music we may have not heard from certain artists.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? The only thing that stopped during this period was shows. I’ve continued to release originals, remixes, remix packs, and bootlegs like I had been doing before the pandemic hit. I’ve maybe even done more with my career, because of the rollercoaster of emotions I’ve had to draw from. I’ve found inspiration in everything I’ve felt and experienced this year.
What’s in your studio? Right now, I’m running a MacBook Pro through an Apollo x6 interface linked to an Apollo Twin. Genelec 8030B monitors with a Yamaha HS8S sub. Lots of plug-ins, but right now my go-to combo has been the UAD EL8 Distressor with the UAD API 560 EQ. The 560 has such a thick, edgy vibe and the Distressor is just so versatile.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I’ve honestly been surprised that so many people could give a shit about wearing a piece of fabric over their mouth and nose. It’s basically the easiest thing you can do to keep people safe, and yet, people have made it about “freedom” and other dumb nonsense they see on Facebook.
Have you done anything online recently? If you’re asking if the project has done anything online recently, yes! I performed as part of some cool live streams, like for Space Yacht with Brohug to promote our collab “Brake.” I’ve also mixed some sets for different radio shows, and I’ve continued my bi-monthly YouTube tutorial series, Band Practice, where I share production tips and techniques with my fans. If you’re asking if I’ve just been looking at stuff online, then 100-percent, as well. I’m always watching mixing videos, finding new plug-ins, and daydreaming about new gear.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Devote time for yourself. Structure your days so that you stay busy and keep your mind focused. This is not permanent, but for now it may feel like it is. We have to appreciate what we have and stay inspired by what’s to come.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
