This week we did a nice interview with Dj Ferry Corsten
Interview | #1
1. How did you get into DJing?
I already produced tracks when I was about 15 years old. At the age of 17 I released my first single. In 1999 I started producing under the name of System F. When ‘Out Of The Blue’ became a big hit, the whole adventure really started.
2. Who were some of your influences when you started DJing? Today?
When I’m not producing, I listen to many styles of music. To my opinion, there is inspiration to be found in everything around you! My music was usually influenced by 80s music, as well as some electro tracks and pop. Nowadays, these elements can still be found in my music repertoire though they are slightly adjusted to the new styles. Basically, I try to keep up with the latest developments within the music world without letting going of my own sound!
3. Do you prefer DJing or producing songs?
I love both. Playing in front of a big crowd is awesome, but after a couple of exhausting gigs it’s often quite nice to retreat myself in my studio! So it’s the combination really that makes it all sustainable to me.
4. What advice or tips would you give a young deejay?
Nowadays, there are many people out there willing to be famous. The only way to really get there, is to stay true to yourself and to clearly distinguish yourself from others. Also, a powerful and reliable network is essential to get on top. Only a few people really make it to the top!
5. What is the best part of life as a deejay?
Travelling all around the world, constantly working with music and entertaining large crowds! I Think these are the things that motivate me every day. Not many people have the privilege to live such an amazingly dynamic life.
6. What is the worst part about DJing?
The irregularity and randomness. Sometimes I only have a couple of hours to sleep before I have to fly to another venue. It would be great to have just a little more structure in my life. It’s my choice of living and I’ll have to accept the incidentals!
7. Who would you love to DJ with?
I did gigs with Armin van Buuren before and I’d love to do it again. There are many other artists with which I’ll do back2back sets on my Full On Ferry tour. Really looking forward to that as well.
8. What is the best song or your favorite song that you have produced?
That would be Out Of The Blue, under my alias System F. This track pushed me further than I ever expected!
9. What has been your best show?
There were many great shows. But the most successful one in my opinion had been Full On Ferry new year’s edition at Brixton Academy, London. This was a great spectacle and I’m sure the new Full On Ferry editions will even go one step further!
10. What has been your worst show?
There’s not really a ‘worst show’, although I admit there are festivals on which I made some severe mistakes (read: bad transitions) during my set of which I was ashamed afterwards. But I learn from my mistakes haha ☺
11. What would be your favorite live set?
I am proud of the 8-hour work for Corsten’s Countdown 250. Received a lot positive reactions from fans as well. The result is great. I admit, even though I’m used to doing long sets this was very exhausting!
12. Where do you find the best audiences?
What is your favorite brand of cornflakes in the morning? Stop asking questions like these! Haha ;-)
It’s difficult to say really. I’ve had a lot of great audiences. Every country has a unique culture with unique party people. For instance, the New Yorkers are very warm and energetic, while the Spanish party with more ‘heat’ and expression.
13. What is the longest set that you have ever played, and where was it?
I once did a set in Heineken Music Hall. Starting from 10:00PM and initially ending at 7:00AM, but the clock had to be adjusted by one hour because of the Daylight Saving Time. So I had to play one hour extra, resulting in an 10-hour set! Also, on several Full On Ferry editions I had to play for serious periods of time simultaneously. It is always a great challenge!
14. Is there a perfect set length, and if yes, how long would it be?
I think on a festival with other artists, a 1,5 hour set time is just enough to build up to the climax. For example, you can take excellent advantage of it by splitting your set in 3 parts, and filling each part with a different genre of music. But it depends on the festival and the other invited artists what set time would be most ideal.
15. What’s next for Dj Ferry Corsten?
Currently I laid my focus on my Full On Ferry world tour. I think it’s going to be great, and you certainly should visit one of the editions! You will not regret it. Expect some great back2back sets, show elements and spectacular sets.
Also, the track from my artist album WKND: Live Forever (feat. Aruna)* will soon be released as single!
16. Do you have any words to Electronica.FM readers?
Thanks for all your support so far! If you would like to stay updated about my latest tracks, my radio show or the festivals I play on, like me on www.facebook.com/ferrycorsten and follow me on www.twitter.com/ferrycorsten !
For latest updates about Corsten’s Countdown, make sure to follow the dedicated @FerryCorstenCC account. For general info visit www.ferrycorsten.com .
See you on Full On Ferry!
Thanks for the interview!
F.
Electronica.FM : We are thankful to dear Ferry Corsten to give this interview and dear Jeffrey van Sluijs for his help.
TO BUY THE FERRY CORSTEN’S LATEST ALBUM ;
Other official links about Ferry Corsten ;
Facebook | Youtube | Twitter | Beatport | Audiojelly | Dance-Tunes | iTunes | trackitdown
Some photos of Ferry Corsten ;
