Dance Music scene’s biggest international summit in Asia, IMS Asia-Pacific was held in Shanghai China a few weeks back. Laidback Luke needs no introduction in himself and how he has been contributing to the dance music scene for decades. He participated in IMS Asia-Pacific as one of the guest speakers and shared with us all about his experiences and personal perspectives on high potential Asian market. Let us share his interview post IMS Asia-Pacific with DJ MAG JAPAN and how he puts an emphasis on the potential of Asian market. 

 

Q1. How did you think of IMS Asia Pacific this year? What was the highlight of the event?

The highlight of the event was realising how open and ready China is for the EDM scene. It’s super exciting times for our music over there now. Something that really took me by surprise was the amount of respect that was thrown at me. I’m very grateful for that and it wasn’t something that I had seen coming. I think events like IMS are a very good breeding ground for Asian talent and the awareness of the scene in Asia.

 

 

Q2. How do you think about the European market and how it is stepping up into a level, as an industry expert who has been in the industry for two decades?

That’s very accurate! We have the experience. We know the ways and we can properly manifest it. Europe, as a club market, has fallen apart. The festivals are still good, but I’m happy the excitement of something new is in China now.

 

Q3. How do you consider the Asian Market as a DJ/Producer?

I think markets like Japan are the strongest for me. Such a dedicated group of people that are keeping a close eye on what I’m doing. And I do think the local scene has very strong artists as well. Asia, and then China, are a very different thing. Western DJs have been touring Asia for a long long time. This wasn’t the case for China.

 

Q4. When looking at the Asian market, at what stage do you believe it is in currently, in comparison to other markets?

Apart from China, I think the Asian market is about as old as the European market. I can only compliment all the local promoters for pouring their heart and souls in it for decades now. For China, everything is only starting now.

 

 

Q5. What do you think is crucial for the Asian market in order to develop further?

I think China is the key! China should give the rest of Asia new fuel to keep on developing.

 

Q6. In terms of social media, what would you give as point of advice to other DJs/Prodcuers?

It’s not about the social media. The social media is secondary. Don’t worry about your logo and image yet. First develop your skill! With that skill you can make a hype for yourself. Not the other way around.

 

Q7. Do you have any advice for “just started” DJ/Producers in Asia? 

Don’t focus on Asia! Focus on the world. Thanks to the internet, the world has become such a small place now. You don’t need to become a star in your own country. Become a star of the world!

 

 

Q8. What are you plans for the rest of the year? Any special projects/gigs coming up?

I’m currently working on a new album! It will be a celebration of only collabs. With new talent, but also with some really famous fellow DJs that I’ve known for a very long time.

 

Q9. Please leave a message to your Japanese/Asian fans.

I love and adore Japan. It’s always a huge pleasure and honor to play there and I can’t wait to be back again and perform for you! Thank you for the support!

 

 

Laidback Luke is not only recognised for his exceptional talent in music production and DJing but he has countlessly scouted new talents into the scene. Avicii, Afrojack, A-Trak, Bingo Players, Knife Party, Steve Angello are some of the top talents in DJ MAG TOP100 DJs that Laidback Luke has laid eyes on from very early stages. Giving them the support that they deserve and Laidback Luke continues to dive into new challenges. Hold on just a little longer for his new album!

 

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