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 the crisis, DJ Times will be presenting the questionnaire responses from talented music-makers from all over the world. Here’s our latest installment, this time from Dixie, the Grammy-winning, remixer/producer/DJ extraordinaire Dave Audé.
What’s it like where you are? I’m in Tennessee now and, as of this moment, all businesses are closed. Most people are at home. We leave to buy groceries and that’s about it. I have three children that have been out of school. Our school district was definitely one of the first to close, which is good. But my kids are definitely starting to go stir-crazy like everyone else. This challenging time has definitely made me more appreciative of my family. My perspective will be forever changed. It’s important to put your children and family and health first.
Have you lost income-producing work? Yes, DJ gigs are all cancelled. I’d say every gig is important, but health is more important. I’m still in the studio every day writing and producing music, so that hasn’t changed.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Yes, music production has always been my main occupation, so I’m still banging away at that every day. I think we all need music more now than ever before. Music got me through some tough times as a kid, and I’m hoping the music I’m making can inspire the same way it did for me was when I was younger.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? Like everyone, I’m trying to figure out what’s important. For as long as I can remember, I’ve spent all of my time in studios and nightclubs, traveling on planes, and staying in hotels. I love DJing and producing records, but I also love being a dad, and I’m spending more time with my children, as you just can’t get those years back.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? That we are all in the same boat. Everyone is on an even playing field in regards to getting sick. It doesn’t matter what you do, how much money you have, or where you live, we are all affected by what’s going on and we all need to help each other and learn from this situation. I’m surprised how many people are actually helping each other. It’s good to see neighbors being good neighbors. I’m also surprised how many people are still trying to leave the house and act like nothing has changed.
Have you done anything online? I considered doing a live mix. I’d rather wait and do it for real. I’d also rather spend time making music, so there’s some new rad stuff to play out in a few months when we all get back out there.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? ELO’s “Mr. Blue Sky.” At the end of the rainy period, the sun will come out. I’m looking forward to that.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? Turn the TV off, spend some time with your family and loved ones, and get in the studio, remember why you started DJing in the first place, and have some fun.
To check out more Life in Lockdown features, click here.
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