Since first popping onto the scene back in 2013, Riot Ten has become a household name in the world of dubstep and continues to remain in the stoplight with a steady barrage of releases. This Texan is never one to make bass music lovers wait too long in between releases with his latest offering being a bone-rattling collaboration “Bussin Bussin” with SubDocta.
With his merciless fan-favorite “Rail Breaker” still in heavy rotation being a timeless bass anthem that ignites crowds wherever it pops up, Riot Ten continues to push the genre forward with each and every release while allowing his sound to evolve every step of the way. That would explain why he’s able to stay one step ahead of the compilation in addition to having a career spanning over about a decade now.
Currently unleashing his fury on the biggest festivals and clubs across the country while still buzzing after a monstrous 2021, we took the time to catch up with Riot Ten to discuss the past, present, and future.
Check out our interview with the dubstep don below!
DJ Life Mag: Who or what introduced you to the world of bass music?
Riot Ten: I was first introduced to Bass music back in high school, specifically Caspa & Rusko. Me and my friends would always listen to them in my friends trailblazer on the way to school, they definitely had a huge influence on me in the beginning.
DJ Life Mag: What is it that made you fall in love with the genre?
Riot Ten: Aside from the energy of the audience, I think it’s just the freedom of creativity that you’re allowed – anything goes, which gives you so much room to explore boundaries. Being able to fuse other genres of music like metal and hip-hop has been so fun to toy with and it’s constantly evolving.
DJ Life Mag: When it comes to production, where do you find inspiration?
Riot Ten: This is actually asked quite often, but, the reality is, my inspiration comes from just about any and everything. Whether it’s another song, a meme on social media, nature, video games, you name it.
DJ Life Mag: What does your studio setup look like these days?
Riot Ten: My setup hasn’t really changed much in a few years. I have 2 JBL monitors and a Steinberg audio interface. I definitely need to upgrade again soon. I also got the full DJ rig with 2000s set up to practice or play around when I hit a writer’s block.
DJ Life Mag: What was one piece of equipment that helped define your sound early on?
Riot Ten: The evolution of my sets all started with a mini DJ controller I bought when I was a teenager and I learned to DJ house parties. As far as my instruments that define my sound, I can’t really pinpoint to one specific piece of equipment, but I am always working on ways to develop and enhance my sound.
DJ Life Mag: How would you say your sound has evolved since the release of “Lock N Load” almost ten years ago?
Riot Ten: Wow. Talk about throwback! I actually love looking back and seeing where I came from and how much I’ve grown as a producer. I’ve spent years now exploring sound design and focusing on what makes a song sound better. The amount of trial and error that I’ve done to find certain sounds and techniques that work best for me is endless. I also do all of my mixing and mastering in house, which has been a major focus for me over the years.
DJ Life Mag: How much has the dubstep scene changed since you first began releasing music?
Riot Ten: Oh man – its changed drastically over the years. When I first began my dubstep journey, it felt like it was so much more of a niche genre in dance music. But now, in the US specifically, it’s one of the fastest growing in the industry. The fact that there are entire 3 day festivals with nothing but dubstep and bass acts is pretty incredible. I think it’s finally solidified itself as a staple.
DJ Life Mag: Tell us a little bit about how your bone-rattling track “Bussin Bussin” with SubDocta came together.
Riot Ten: I wanted to combine the melody of a “mainstream” electronic record with a dubstep and funky twist. When I first produced and developed the idea, I knew that SubDocta would be perfect to bring it home. I’m really loving his sound right now.
DJ Life Mag: You seem to collaborate with artists more often than not. Why do you choose to go that route as a producer?
Riot Ten: I like to lift the up-and-coming producers and give them a bigger opportunity using my platform. Not that all of my collaborations are with smaller artists, BUT a good amount are. I also love the concept of collaborating in general. There’s nothing more rewarding than being able to combine styles, and sounds, to bring your vision to life.
DJ Life Mag: Are you more of a festival guy or do you prefer playing for the club crowds?
Riot Ten: Why not both of em! I love the intimacy of smaller club shows, but I also love the vibes of being on a big stage outside at a festival. I think they serve different purposes and I am here for both.
DJ Life Mag: It seems like you’re always on the road. How do you like to spend your days off or your time back at home?
Riot Ten: When I’m home, it mainly consists of hanging out with my girlfriend and my 2 sons, cooking, playing xbox, and of course making music.
DJ Life Mag: How do you juggle being a dad and a touring DJ?
Riot Ten: It’s all about time management and creating a routine. It was a pretty big challenge at first, but you figure it out as you go.
DJ Life Mag: Your second son Kai has autism and you have always been supportive and outspoken when it comes to autism awareness. Next month you will be participating in the annual “Walk For Autism” in El Paso, how much does it mean to you to be able to participate in events like that in addition to having the support of many of your music industry friends?
Riot Ten: It means the world to me. There is really no correct way to go about any of these things, but with the support of family and friends it’s so much easier to navigate. In the end, I just want people to be aware and educated. If I can use my platform to help achieve that goal, then that’s exactly what I am going to do.
DJ Life Mag: What else does Riot Ten have planned for 2022?
Riot Ten: I have a big EP on the way and a ton of collaborations that I’m excited about. Festival season is looking like my biggest yet, and my Fall tour is going to be insane. Brand new stage, all new production. This year is going to be fun.
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