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 Rocky Mountains, Denver’s bass-music DJ/producer/sax player SoDown (aka Ehren Wright).
How did you spend most of your pandemic time? I spent most of my time working on new music and exploring the mountains of Colorado. I’m building a new studio which is really exciting. I have tons of new music coming out, including my latest collab, “Tension,” with my good friend Bass Physics.
Have things changed over time? Yeah, I’ve gotten used to staying at home. It was a drastic change from touring so much before. Like everything, there have been ups and downs, but I’m mostly just trying to live in the moment.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? Yeah, very much so. Shows are an important income stream, not everything, but certainly a big part. More than losing income, it’s been tough to not play shows and connect with people in that way. Trying out new music at shows is so inspiring and fun, and it’s been pretty rough losing that avenue of creativity.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Have you learned anything in the downtime? Yeah, I mean, we are starting to play some shows again, as it becomes safe and constantly releasing music has kept our streaming income moving, which is great. I’ve learned that I will never take shows for granted again. We are so blessed to live the life that we do and we have so much to be grateful for.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? For example, any releases during this period? Well, I have tons of new music in the works and it’s been great to have some downtime from touring to focus on enjoying some other things in life and write new music.
What’s in your studio? Genelec 8040B monitors, UAD Apollo Twin interface, keyboards, sax, a couple controllers. A standing desk is a must.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? That I need my people! I love being around humans, having conversations with strangers and friends. Connecting with people inspires me so much.
Have you done anything online recently? We did a few streams in the beginning of quarantine, but I learned pretty quickly that the crowd is instrumental at shows. For me, it’s the interaction and connection that makes live music special. Playing music in every setting is fun, but digesting music on a screen is not how I want my live shows to be enjoyed.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Meditation, exercise, music and gratitude for the small things have helped me stay sane through all of this. It keeps me going to know that my music has helped people through this tough time, as well.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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