A CHAT WITH ROSS KENT
Q: WHAT WAS IT THAT DREW YOU INTO ELECTRONIC MUSIC?
A: My older brother first introduced me to rave mixtapes when I was a young teenager and I instantly fell in love with the raw energy and emotion of the sound.The rave culture and dj's in particular captured my attention and I started collecting vinyl when I was 15, and playing house parties with a couple of mates from school, which fuelled my passion even further. There must've been something in the water at our school as the years above and below produced Anna Lunoe, Hayden James and Sam & Nick Littlemore, AKA Sam La More, Pnau and Empire of the Sun . Needless to say we had some pretty epic house parties! The memories of going to my first raves still stick with me today, that feeling of nerves mixed with excitement of walking into those huge, sweaty, dark warehouse spaces into a heaving dancefloor until sunrise was such a life affirming experience, I was hooked!
Q: YOU'RE AN INCREDIBLY VERSATILE ARTIST, ABLE TO PLAY AT ANY TIME, WHETHER IT'S AN OPENING SET OR A BANGING HEADLINE SLOT. HOW IMPORTANT IS THE ABILITY TO ADAPT AND WHAT DOES THAT SAY ABOUT AN ARTIST?
A: Understanding my role in the flow of the party is incredibly important to me.I try to curate a unique experience for that point in time that takes into account many factors including time of day or night, indoor or outdoor venue etc. Opening sets, can make or break a party so big ups to the vibe setters! Similarly it's always special to play to peak time slots to a heaving dancefloor, but I still take into account who's playing before and after me and adapt my sound accordingly. The ability to adapt your musical style is something that should be embraced and celebrated. Artists that a have a broad taste in genres make this look effortless, as it ensures they have the right tunes for any occasion, which as a dj also keeps things interesting and exciting.
Q: AS OUR INDUSTRY EVOLVES WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUNG ARTISTS SHOULD STRIVE FOR?
A: "Move beyond beatport charts - explore other genres and deep dive artists and labels as well as other platforms. Maybe even try your hand at producing.
Now more than ever we need to support local independent promoters and events. Attending these events will expose you to quality tunes and artists which will help shape and evolve your own sound. It's also where the best opportunities for bookings are!
The best way to learn and continue pushing yourself is to be surrounded other talented artists.Embrace fellow dj's as friends and mentors rather than competition. One thing I find really special about the scene in Brisbane is how close knit and supportive the dj community is, so I'd love to see that grow and continue. "
Q: WHAT FUELS YOUR PASSION FOR ELECTRONIC MUSIC?
A: Electronic music is a universal language that unites people. The incredible friends and community I have made through music has enriched my life beyond words and has shaped me into the person I am today. As a dj, playing music to tell a story and create a vibe that brings people together is an incredible feeling. A dancefloor is a place of freedom, connection and expression which is such an important outlet in today's world. Electronic music provides the perfect soundtrack for these moments.
Q: WHAT'S IN THE PIPELINE FOR ROSS KENT?
A: My residency with OUTRA has already created so many amazing opportunities which I am extremely grateful for. As we expand I look forward to taking on new challenges with the team looking after the touring agency side of things. On the gig front I have a couple of exciting shows to announce soon as well as being invited to contribute to a new online mix series. I've also set myself a goal to secure some interstate bookings, so watch this space!