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 Italy, the Siberian-born/Naples-based techno talent, Anfisa Letyago.
How did you spend most of your pandemic time? It has definitely been a difficult year not only for me, but for all the artists in the world. Personally, I tried to turn this time into something important for me! I had the chance to study, experiment and produce everything I wanted.
Have things changed over time? Absolutely, yes. With my time to focus on production and experimentation, the result was “Listen,” an EP created far away from the clubs, a different sound from everything I’ve produced until last year. Another very important thing is the birth of my label N:S:DA in January. Honestly, I’m very happy and satisfied with the work I’ve done, I feel more fulfilled.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? Yes, 2020 was a very important year for me when it came to live events. I was confirmed for a lot of festivals, including Ultra Resistance in Miami and Abu Dhabi, Loveland, Amsterdam Rave and Tomorrowland. I also had a big club tour all over the world, Ibiza and many other places. I was a little bit shocked when they started to cancel the events all over the world, but I’m always so busy and never get any down time. So, I decided to use this time in the studio as much as I could. Although it turned out to be a lot longer than anyone anticipated, I used the time to improve my production skills and create more new music that I can’t wait to reveal.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? I’m very focused on my new label N:S:DA. My second EP, “Nisida,” will come in April 9. I would like to release music from other artists on N:S:DA, so I’m thinking about it and I’m starting get together a collection of acts I consider more interesting in the scene right now. But these aren’t things which are bringing in any income to replace what gigs provided – it’s just my passion.
Have you learned anything in the downtime? In addition to making music during the lockdown, I dedicated myself to learned more about cooking, with a focus on Southern Italian cuisine. I learned how to make homemade pizzas, too! As you already know, for us in Italy, food is a philosophy – everything from the preparation of your raw ingredients, to the refinement of making something beautiful to be presented on a plate. I have observed the process and find it very rewarding. It’s important to learn to buy and use quality ingredients and set aside the time and dedication that’s needed to create something special. Sometimes even the simplest of doughs can take several days to prepare. This process is something which can be applied to so many aspects of life, including music.
Aside from the two EP releases on N:S:DA, any other releases we should look for? I also have another release coming out on a very special German label, which I can’t wait for. Sorry, but I can’t tell you who it is yet! I love to get feedback from fans all over the world, so I am excited to release all these new EP’s soon.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I realized that I don’t like deadlines. I feel like devoting myself to things as long as necessary without rushing, enjoying every moment of the process of life.
Have you done any live-streaming? Seen anything else you like online? Yes, I have done a few myself, but I have been really impressed by the creativity of some of the live-streams by other brands and artists. It seems like some people are really thinking outside of the box and doing them in special locations and one-off venues.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I’m sure all this will be just a bad memory soon. But in the meantime, I recommend not to watch the news on TV – it’s all so negative and it’s not food for your headspace. Get outside, go for a walk, eat some good food you have made yourself – maybe a pizza! – and listen to podcasts and music that keep you uplifted and happy.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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