New York-based music producer DJ TEN had gained prominence in early 2000. He is best known for his 80’s inspired album entitled, “Retrological 2.0” and also for his 80’s sci- themed “Zioneon EP” which were both released independently and attained notable success worldwide.
The “DJ Ten” sound is influenced by many musical genres that span from UK Garage, Sub-Low, 80’s Synthpop, 80’s Freestyle/ breakbeat and Hip-Hop. DJ Ten is known as Slimbtz Da King in the Hip-Hop community.
Looking back, what were some of your earliest entries into music appreciation? And music production?
I started appreciating music heavily once I heard several power ballads on Magic FM (UK) at 12 yers old. It took me into another place and I was mesmerized by the power in the chords and in the overall sound. I fell in love with the sound and the feeling I got from hearing such sounds. This pushed me to get a keyboard and start learning about music.
What inspired you to start making the electronic music that you are now?
It was a long journey. I first started making UK Garage and Grime when I was in the UK. Then I went into HipHop when I moved to the US. This slowly became more electronic as I started fusing my grime roots with HipHop. A few years after this I then stumbled across a magical 80s synth sound in YouTube. This is where my sound got the biggest inspiration of all, coming back to the feeling I got with the 80’s Ballads. I then started adding 80s synth sounds to my compositions which has led me to my music today.
What key pieces of gear/software are you using to define your sound?
Logic X is my go-to DAW. Solid software. I have so many VST’s and I like to use a lost of vast sounds! lol. I would say Omnisphere is my go-to one though.
Has your arsenal of equipment changed much since you first started?
Not really. I have just continuously added more vst’s and drum kits to my arsenal.
Which three albums or artists would you say have influenced your sound in a big way?
Journey – Greatest Hits, Kanye West – my beautiful dark twisted fantasy, Expose – Exposure. Very different sounds, I know. lol
Any new or upcoming artists on your radar?
There are a few! I won’t reveal them yet! lol. I will be working with them on my next album in 2020.
What inspires you outside of music?
Nostalgia, Beautiful landscapes, love and paintings/ art.
What do you want to accomplish with your music?
I want to inspire and be able to change peoples lives in a positive way with my music. Inspiration is such a powerful thing and it has the power to heal!
What, in your opinion would be the perfect genre fusion?
Hip-Hop, 80s Synth and 90s house!
What can we expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or releases in the pipeline that you would like to tell us about?
I am in music mode again and I am working on my 4th album release for 2020. Will be full of 80s synths, but a lot more experimentation sonically. Really excited to shake things up.
DJ Ten online
Website | Facebook | YouTube | Bandcamp | Soundcloud
