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 Middle East, the Izmir, Turkey-based electronic talent Serhat Durmus.
What’s it like where you’re living? How did you spend most of your time? I live in Turkey. Here, as in many other countries, there have been too many restrictions. A couple of weeks ago, a ban on going outside was applied for 20 days, and we had to stay at home. I’ve tried to see the positive side of things and I’ve spent most of my time in lockdown making music.
Did you lose important gigs, or income-producing work? Yes, I’ve had to cancel so many concert and festival requests. No matter what, it is not more important than our health. When the pandemic is over, I’m ready to get out there, play shows and meet my fans.
Are you doing anything now that can or will produce music-related income? Have you learned anything in the downtime? I’ve spent a lot of time creating music during the pandemic and I’ve also released music during the time. I have always been an introverted person and, in that sense, it hasn’t affected too much of my creativity.
What are you doing now that’s ultimately constructive to your music life/career? For example, any releases during this period? I never stop. I always produce music. My new album Arres will be released soon. Apart from this, there are lots of projects that I’ve had the time to work on.
In the studio, what’s your set-up? I use FL Studio, but recently started using Ableton Live as well. My equipment: APOGEE Symphony, ADAM Audio A8X, Neumann microphone, Mackie MC-450. Favorite Plug-ins: Serum, Sylenth1, Guitar Rig 6, Raum, Melodyne and, of course, Waves Plugins.
What’s your creation process in the studio? I write, arrange and produce around 50 songs every month. Then I have a process of narrowing it down to one or very few that I continue to finalize and then release. Even though it can feel like a slow process, it is my way to make sure that I’m completely satisfied with everything I release.
What’s your typical DJ set-up? I’m currently using Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR, but will change my set-up before post-pandemic gigs. I love to try new stuff and have a lot of new gear coming the next few days.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve realized during this period of social distancing? Once again, I realized how important our health is and how important family is.
Have you done anything online recently? I’ll be starting live-streamed performances very soon actually. Follow my socials to get the latest updates on that!
Any advice on staying sane & relatively positive through this situation? I’m sure this situation will end very soon, as most bad things do. The most important thing is to always stay positive. Always create something. I’m sure it will save you from most bad thoughts. Stay safe, y’all!
To check out more Life in Lockdown interviews, click here.
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