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 Rome-based techno talent Sisko Electrofanatik (aka Francesco Fortuna).
What’s it like where you’re living? I live in the south of Rome, which is a good place with lots of shops and other services.
Were you locked down? How did you spend most of your time during the majority of the time? Yes, I’ve been locked in my apartment, so I have spent a lot of time in my home studio working on a lot of music projects. I’ve been busy with remixes and also finding music for my label, Gain Records. I also did some sound-design projects for sample packs.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? Yes, unfortunately, I lost some international gigs, a tour, and a really cool residency at a summer techno party here in Italy. So, it’s been a very frustrating time for me and my career.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Have you learned anything in the downtime? Sure, I focused a lot on creating some sample packs, and did mix and masters work for new clients. I also spent a lot of time to update my musical knowledge, especially on my sound design, mix and mastering. I also started a second label called Gain Plus.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? For example, any releases during this period? My most recent original track is “Only One,” and my most recent release is my remix for Dyno’s “Reborn.” I’m working on my first full album to release in early 2022 on my own label. I also signed new releases on labels such as Unrilis, Misfit Musix, Codex, AnalyticTrail and more.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I realized during this time period that in the modern world there are many things and attitudes that we’ve lost. Things like finding the time to read a book or talk with friends because, due to the high pace of normal life, we lost touch with. It’s made me appreciate the little things that before I took for granted – for example, spending time with the family, and I do more to stay fit and healthy.
Have you done anything online recently? Have you seen any DJ video streams that impressed you? Yes, I recorded a lot of podcasts and live sets from my studio, and I’m preparing a big summer video-stream for a big channel, which will be from a great place here in Rome. In general, I’ve been impressed with how may DJs have made great streams in incredible places. I’ve seen many filmed at historical locations, and also some with innovative methods to make them visually interesting.
Any themed tunes recommended for the moment? I’d have to say Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” due to COVID-19 still being in the air when transmitted. Sorry, I know that’s a bit of a tenuous one. My new track “Only One” could also work, as in isolation there is only one.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Concentrate on what you like doing, and what gets you feeling good. For DJs and producers, it’s important to focus on updating your skills, and taking advantage of some extra time for creativity.
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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