If you’re tapped into the world of bass music, Papa Khan certainly needs no introduction quickly becoming one of the most promising producers in the scene due to his versatility and forward-thinking sound design.
After making his debut on the esteemed electronic imprint Monstercat last year, the Indonesian talent has opened 2022 returning the label to deliver his booming, pop-punk-inspired single “Never Cared” setting the tone for what’s to come from the blossoming bass mastermind.
Still buzzing off the release of his latest offering, we took the time to get to know Papa Khan a little better. Check out our interview below!
When were you first introduced to electronic dance music, and when did you decide to start producing?
Papa Khan: I started making music ten years ago! My parents used to play some old electronic music stuff like Disco etc. So I was already influenced by it since I was a little! Also, later I discovered Skrillex, and I instantly became a fan of it.
When you were getting started, which artists influenced or inspired you most?
Papa Khan: Skrillex, Zomboy, and Getter are my inspirations!
What is it about the world of bass music that caught your attention?
Papa Khan: The sound design! It’s so complex and unique and makes bass music so special.
Papa Khan comes from Fallout: New Vegas, correct? You’re still quite the gamer these days; what’re you playing when you’ve got the time?
Papa Khan:YES! I mostly play PUBG and Warzone with my friends! Sometimes I play GTA, sometimes Fallout, Far Cry, some FPS games, haha.
What does your studio setup look like these days?
Papa Khan: I’ve got a pair of Yamaha HS7s! I use Audio Technica M50x for headphones and Presonus Studio 24c for my audio interface!
Where do you find your inspiration when it comes to production?
Papa Khan: Getter’s Visceral album has influenced me a LOT! That album made me cry and feel emotional. I love Getter so much; he is my number one inspiration. His heavy stuff, melodic stuff, hip-hop, and even his Simi Valley show! I hope I can work with him one day!
What’s your creative process in the studio?
Papa Khan: I’d like to pick a random melodic sample and then chop it up and add some effects to it!
When you have a rough week or hit a wall creatively, how do you get yourself back on track?
Papa Khan: Sometimes I’ll just lay in bed, eat, or maybe watch some movies. But I typically will go out and smoke a couple of cigarettes and have a cup of coffee. It helps me relax!
You’ve quickly become one of the hottest names in bass music; what words of wisdom do you have for up-and-coming producers who are looking to get their music noticed?
Papa Khan: Keep making what you want to make, follow your heart, and develop a signature sound; people will come to you if you’re unique.
Tell us a little bit about how your hard-hitting new track “Never Cared” came together.
Papa Khan: I was in an abusive relationship. I got gaslighted, manipulated, played, and hurt so many times until I was at the point where I didn’t care about it [the relationship] anymore and simply just cut her off.
That was your second release on Monstercat; how does it feel to have releases on such an esteemed imprint?
Papa Khan: It’s crazy, haha. I’ve been a huge fan of Monstercat for years. I remember listening to some old Tristam stuff when I was in middle school!
What does Papa Khan have in store for 2022 and beyond?
Papa Khan: I’m going to go on a tour! It’s amazing that my dreams are slowly becoming a reality. Also, there are a lot of tunes in the works!
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