Christian acquired his love of electronic while growing up in the UK. It wasn’t until he moved to New York, however, that he would attend his first underground party and find the sound that would capture him and inspire him to step behind the decks himself. Since then, Christian has become a staple of the underground scene, a party enthusiast, and an avid techno tourist.
Electronic Groove: Hi Christian, it’s a pleasure to chat with you. To get things started tell us about how did you get involved with dance music and you’re interest in becoming a DJ?
Christian Voldstad: I grew up in England and have been listening to dance music for quite some time. After moving to New York after college I started going out and eventually ended up at my first underground party in a warehouse in Brooklyn. New York has such a thriving scene if you know where to look, and before long I was a regular customer and was traveling to parties and events in other cities and countries. A friend of mine lent me a pair of turntables, and after spending months train-wrecking every transition I was able to play two records at the same time. I was working in the industry doing marketing for a few record labels and also a nightclub in Brooklyn, so DJing was a hobby I did for fun occasionally.
Electronic Groove: You recently played at this years ADE. What can you tell us about the experience?
Christian Voldstad: Amsterdam was actually the first time I have ever played in another country. Before then it had always been in the United States, either in New York or Miami or Burning Man. I had a great time in Amsterdam and, I am actually in Russia right now getting ready to play my second time in another country. I am very excited!
Electronic Groove: Do you see any difference in how the music is consumed in Amsterdam for example as compared to NY or Miami?
Christian Voldstad: Everyone just wants to dance!
Electronic Groove: You’re part of the Bespoke Musik crew. How did that relationship start and has it influenced the way you play?
Christian Voldstad: Bespoke Musik was actually founded by my friends Rami and Rocky. Rami and another DJ Tamer Malki started a music project called Bedouin which really took off. After this Rami didn’t have enough time to continue as the Bespoke resident DJ, and Rocky began booking other local DJs for opening duties. I was booked to play my first Bespoke party and showed up with my record bag as I didn’t know how to use CDJs yet. I played a very nice opening set and Rocky approached me about becoming the new resident. Needless to say I was overjoyed, accepted his offer, and ran around the party like an idiot for the rest of the night.
Bespoke Musik is an amazing platform and consistently books some of the best talent I have heard. I’ve had the opportunity to play with many extremely talented artists and it has certainly shaped the way I play. Performing opening sets has taught me patience and I enjoy the intricacy of building the energy up slowly throughout the night.
Electronic Groove: We are stoked that you’re playing at Parties 4 Peace Art Basel Edition alongside an impressive lineup of artists and musicians. Will there be any special preparation for this evening?
Christian Voldstad: Yes, the party will actually be livestreamed onto the internet so everyone will be able to see it. Not only that but we will have some amazing artists painting while the party is going on. Although I’ve played in Miami before I’m really looking forward to my first Art Basel.
Electronic Groove: What are your plans for the end of the year and looking into 2017?
Christian Voldstad: I go to Fordham University in New York for my masters so for December I have a few term papers and a final or two. I have a few events lined up but also want to calm down a bit and spend Christmas with my friends and family.
For 2017 I am anticipating completing my masters so I can pursue Music Production, which is something I really want to start but haven’t had the time yet. Maybe a few more international gigs but nothing confirmed yet.
Electronic Groove: We are living in times of uncertainty. What role do you think the artist should play when so much hate and division is among us?
Christian Voldstad: We can only do our best to make people smile, but when we succeed it’s beautiful.
Electronic Groove: Going back to music, what are some of your favorite tunes on rotation?
Christian Voldstad: I’ve really been enjoying Tim Green’s productions lately, and Powel is making some beautiful music. Bob Moses and Trentemoller are always sneaking into my sets as well.
Electronic Groove: What do you like to listen when you’re chilling out and unwinding?
Christian Voldstad: The Beatles, The Doors, Pink Floyd, Jimmy Hendrix, a little classical music, it’s nice to take a break from the four on the floor sometimes.
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