An American DJ and Producer TJR, also known as the emperor of the bounce scene, approved to do an interview with DJ Mag Japan. With his astonishing skill and performance as a DJ, creating special sound and vocals, he continues today to thrill his fans all around. In 2014, he was ranked as 80th in DJ Mag Top 100 DJs ranking and joined the crew as one of the leading figures in the scene. Not to mention his specific genre and sound that can only be produced by him never fails to amaze his fans and audiences out there. Let us share the interview with him on the new release and his interesting thoughts towards DJ Mag.
Q1. We heard your new track “Freaks” is stored on 9th of September. Can you tell us more about your new track?
Its a bounce song that has a throwback style to the 90s. A fun, hooky vocal that repeats a bunch with my signature funky lead that keeps the track moving.
Q2. You have visited Japan. Can you share your impression of Japan? What was the most surprising or impressive experience? Something within your expectation?
I absolutely love Japan. After my last trip, it's now my favorite place to visit in the world. There is so much beauty and discovery in Japan, can never stay long enough. I was very very impressed with the record store Technique in Tokyo. It had so much great used vinyl from the 90s, cant wait to go back :)
Q3. How do you get the inspiration from when producing music?
Inspiration comes from anywhere. I'm always listening to music, all kinds. A lot of times during my listening sessions is when I get an idea. I keep a log of ideas on my phone so i dont forget them!
Q4. Who or what is the most musically influenced to you? If so, why is that?
That's a tough one. I draw influence from many different artists and eras in the history of dance music. I would say if I had to choose, chicago house, detroit techno and mid west acid techno of the 90s influenced me the most. If you heard a lot of the records that I love, my sound today isnt too far off from them.
Q5. As well-known international DJ and producer, I wonder what made you decide to become a music producer especially in electronic in the beginning. What was your motive?
I'm kind of a late bloomer because I started producing about 10 years after i began DJing. I just got tired of mixing haha. I wanted to make records like the ones I loved to mix. It was that simple, no other agenda.
Q6. What do you have coming up next tour, new track… etc?
Q6 I have a track called "Work That Shit" coming out on Tiesto's Musical Freedom label by the end of the year. I had another track come out in September on Mad Decent's free label Good Enuff called "Dik Work" featuring DJ Funk.
Q7. What is DJ Mag to you as a DJ and producer?
DJ Mag is an important publication to keep the culture and artform of DJing alive.
Q8. Please leave a message for your fans in Japan.
I LOVE YOU ALL, YOU GIVE ME LIFE!!! CANT WAIT TO COME BACK!! :)
It is very difficult to be a superstar but someone still down to earth but TJR is one of those special people. He always shows his appreciation towards his fans by taking pictures or signing an autograph. Of course, his music is what gets his fans going but his personality off stage also attracts lots of fans and it is also the reason as to why he is respected within the industry. Don’t miss out on TJR’s next show!