We sat down with Oakenfold ahead of his Webster Hall show to discuss his tour and legendary status. Enter to win tickets for the event from DJ LIFE.
New York City – This Friday, Oct. 3, a very special double bill comes to Manhattan’s Webster Hall – Paul Oakenfold and The Crystal Method.
The legendary Oakenfold, famous for his pioneering work throughout the rise of electronic dance music, will bring his trance-leaning sounds to the venerable venue. Additionally, The Crystal Method (aka Scott Kirkland) will lay down a set of crunching breakbeats. Expect an epic night of dancefloor bangers. (And for DJ LIFE readers, we’re giving away two pairs of tickets for the event. Enter HERE.)
We recently caught up with Oakenfold to discuss the tour and his legendary status.
DJ LIFE: After all these years, how have you managed to maintain your relevance and busy schedule amid such a competitive environment?
Oakenfold: Because I focus on myself rather than what other people are doing. And I don’t chase trends – I focus on creating great music that others and myself enjoy.
DJ LIFE: At this point, you’re considered one of the legends of the industry, someone who helped electronic dance music arrive where it has today. Does that title make you feel uncomfortable or proud? How does that suite you?
Oakenfold: I’m comfortable where I am at with my career. I am enjoying traveling the world, seeing people, and playing my music to them – and I want it to continue. Being called a “legend” makes me feel both ways, actually. I’m grateful people see me that way, but I’m not doing it for that reason.
DJ LIFE: With your label Perfecto, how are you help shepherding in the next generation of DJ/producer talent?
Oakenfold: As a record label, we’ve been signing young artists from around the world. I have the knowledge to teach, support, encourage, and even disagree with them. This is vital knowledge that I have to share, and in this moment of my life, I really enjoy doing this.
DJ LIFE: Let’s talk about the tour you’re currently on with The Crystal Method, which kicks off in the States on Oct. 3 at Webster Hall in New York City. What should fans expect to hear that night?
Oakenfold: I’ve been a fan of The Crystal Method for a long time. When this opportunity came up to tour with him, I thought it would work really well. We both bring different sounds to the table, and I thought it would be a good idea to share this with the audience. The theme is to share classic and new music with the audience. With our years of experience behind the decks, taking people on musical journeys, sharing classics/remixes/new music with two different sounds that come together to make a perfect evening.
DJ LIFE: How would you describe your approach to your work these days? What keeps you going?
Oakenfold: At this current moment in my career, I am focusing on the present and not looking too far down the line. I just want to really enjoy my life, share with other people and travel the world. The world is not in a good place at the moment, and music heals. As strange as it may sound, when you are DJing and you see so many people smiling and happy, it makes you feel great. If I can bring even a little bit of happiness to people when performing, then great. That is what it is all about.
