Respect the DJ Interview with IRɅ @ira.germany
How did you get into DJing?
When I spent my first vacation on Ibiza in 2005, the electronic music scene just overwhelmed me. This is when I decided to concentrate on this kind of music – I was into hip-hop before. I bought my first CDJs in 2008 but learned it professionally in 2017.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I watched a lot of Youtube-Tutorials, asked two close friends and whenever I’m on a gig or just a guest in a club I watch the other DJs playing. Learning never stops!
What did your first setup look like?
I was studying, so it really had a low-budget setup. My first CDJs were from Zomo and my Mixer from Behringer. I had old school retro headphones from my dad and supercheap loudspeaker boxes.
What does your current setup look like?
Well, nine years later, working AND going in for quality, I bought Pioneer CDJs and a Pioneer DJM. Both in 2000. My monitoring boxes are from KRK and my headphones are from Sennheiser.
How did you get your DJ/Artist name?
I had so many ideas in mind and then I wondered how I’d like the names in 10 years. So I wanted to play safe and decided to take my first name – IRɅ – just the “A” is different.
If you could DJ at any 3 events/festivals what would they be?
COULD is like dreaming, right? If I am allowed to dream: Amsterdam Dance Event, Parookaville, and Tomorrowland. But that’s beyond my reach.
If you could DJ in any 3 cities what would they be?
Berlin (again), London and of course Ibiza.
If you could be a tour DJ for any artist (dead or alive), who would it be?
Carl Cox.
What is your goal when you play live?
I want the crowd to escape from everyday routine and bring them into another world and ecstasy.
What's your go-to song right now?
Hard question – I love so many. But one of my favorites for the peak time is ‘Babayani’ (Stereo Express, Lunar Plane) and to bring people down ‘Closer’ (Whomadewho) and ‘Listen to my soul’ (Niconé feat Enda Gallery).
What is your dream as a DJ?
To play as long as possible (or forever J) – music is my passion, my love.
To play as often as possible - music makes me happy.
To play at many venues in the world – music makes people happy and connects them.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to become a DJ?
Work, work, work. It’s hard work. And never forget
Where can people find you? (social media, website, etc.)