Interview- tyDi

We spoke to Australian Trance DJ and producer, Tyson Illingworth before his gig at the Blue Frog in Mumbai- about DJing, collaborations and more!

How did you get into DJ-ing? Tell me a little about your musical background. What genre (s) of music were you listening to earlier on?

I got into music back when I was about 14. I heard stuff through some old family friends and was immediately in love. I’ve always been a music geek though and I studied it at school and went on to do a Bachelor of Music Technology at the Conservatorium of Music.

I’ve listened to all different genres- pop, chillout, jazz, and movie scores. Actually a lot of movie scores.

So how does it feel to be running across the DJ MAG Top 100 at your speed when so many take eons to get to where you are?

Haha, well it certainly feels good to know that I have fans around the world that love my music! Like right now, I’m in India because of my music, it’s incredible! Words can’t describe how awesome it is to arrive in a new city on the other side of the planet to be greeted by fans… I’m a lucky boy!

The one artist you’d love to collaborate with?

Probably Bert from a band called ‘The Used’. He’s such a cool singer, great voice with so much power and emotion. I’d love to have him sing on one of my songs.

The one artist that inspires you the most would be?

Too hard to answer! My inspiration comes from everywhere. I’m big on my songwriting, verse, chorus, bridge, hot lyrics, great chords, beautiful melodies- that’s what I’m into and inspiration comes from anywhere or anyone. Something I’ve seen or something I’ve heard.

On a production level, BT has been a big inspiration. He’s easily the best producer out there; his technical knowledge is a step above the others. It’s exciting to be writing music with him!

You’ve moved your more uplifting progressive sound to a slightly grittier tech-heavy sound. Is that a sign of things to come?

Not at all! That was a phase. My new album is different altogether. It’s more vocal, lush melodies and big hooks. I don’t really desire to stick to a ‘style’. I just write music, hopefully others enjoy it.

Your favourite club to play at?

Ruby Skye in San Fransisco is amazing.

Do you attend a lot of gigs/ go to festivals? If yes, which is the most memorable one till date?

I usually just play at a lot of festivals. There was one in Korea recently that I loved called ‘World DJ Fest’. That was insane. Also Global Gathering and Sensation was off the hook!

Five things you always carry on tour?

Angelina Jolie, Emma Stone, Scarlett Johansson, Megan Fox and Heidi Klum!

Women love DJs, any crazy touring stories ?

Plenty of crazy stories- I’ll leave it to your imagination!

What can fans expect tonight and during the rest of the tour- anything new, any surprises? Also, what’s post India? Gigs/ studio/ anything else?

Well, I’m about to release my new album ‘Shooting Stars’! So you’re going to hear lots of big tunes from that and so many new tunes that will blow the roof off. I’m always well prepared for my DJ sets, locked and loaded with tunes designed to blow your minds. Be there!