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 Canada, the Toronto-based electronic talent Famba (aka Ryan Pettipas).
What’s it like where you’re living? Things seem a little unusual, but nothing too crazy. Masks are the new normal at this point. I think a lot of the COVID craziness has calmed down compared to when lockdown first happened. I’ve been spending almost all of my time making music and becoming a better DJ. Also, I’m spending time with my girlfriend and dog.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? I actually had my first U.S. show in Miami cancelled, which is a bummer. But I mean, who would have thought it would be due to a pandemic? Luckily, I can work in my home studio, so my work isn’t affected too much. I actually have been quite productive and I’ve almost finished my next project.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Have you learned anything in the downtime? I have a steady income of publishing royalties coming in and a few other side things here and there. I’ve learned to be much more patient and just go with the flow. So many things are out of my control that I can’t stress over.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? For example, any new releases? I just had a song released on Spinnin’ Records called “Know You Best” with Jake Tarry, featuring Alex Hosking, and another one coming soon. I also have four or five tracks done for my next EP and am incredibly excited to show the world what I’ve been working on over the past few months.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? I always joke about not going outside much. But being stuck home so much has made me realize how much I actually do enjoy going outside and exploring the city. I think, as music producers, it’s easy to just sit in dark studios all day, but it’s so important to get out and enjoy life.
Have you done anything online recently? I have a live-stream series coming, with four planned dates at various locations. It will be available on IG Live, Twitch and YouTube.
Any theme tunes recommended for the moment? I will always recommend the ’80s. Something about that era of music is so happy and fun. Toto’s “Africa” is my instant mood booster. I think it’s impossible to listen to that song and be sad.
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I think just trying to stay busy is the most important. This could be a great opportunity for all of the folks that are stuck at home to pick up a new hobby. There’s all the time in the world to pursue whatever that may be! Who knows what will come out of all of this?
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
DJ Times Magazine is copyright © 2020 by DJ Publishing, Inc. www.djtimes.com
