Contributing WriterDemuir is a new school house innovator with a funky and soulful sound. His music has come on Hot Creations, Desolat, Rawthentic and his own Purveyor Underground. He’s also DJd worldwide, not least as a regular at Jamie Jones’s Paradise parties. Demuir shows Music Is 4 Lovers another side to his fresh sound here as we focus on his brilliant new edit of Ce Ce Peniston’s ‘Are You Ready?’
Hey Demuir! Hope you’re well and welcome to Music Is 4 Lovers. How’s your summer been?
Thanks for having me back! This summer has been nothing short of amazing, filled with great music and unforgettable parties. One highlight was the warehouse party we threw in your city, San Diego, back in June. The vibe was unreal, and I had the chance to connect with some truly incredible people and friends. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do.
As we head into the latter months of the year, where can we expect to see you performing?
I just wrapped up an amazing set at Chicago’s Arc Festival and am headed to Toronto next. I’ll also be performing in New York City soon, teaming up with Shermanology for their D’eaupe label party at Chocolate Factory. It’s shaping up to be an exciting season with more events on the horizon!
You’re currently based in Toronto, we’d love to know some of your favorite clubs within the local scene.
Toronto’s nightlife has evolved a lot, especially after the pandemic. But Coda remains a stronghold, consistently delivering killer vibes. I also enjoy those obscure, funky nights at Boogie on Queen Street West. These spots are where you can still feel the pulse of the city’s underground music scene.
Next month, your rework of Ce Ce Peniston’s ‘Are You Ready?’ lands on Avenue X Records. Why did you decide to drop a soulful rework of this 2018 jam?
For every remix project I take on, I approach with the goal of making it distinctly my own. Ce Ce Peniston’s vocals in “Are You Ready?’ had this soulful essence that really resonated with me, and I knew I had to channel that in the rework. The groove just came naturally from there.
You’ve had an extensive career. Could you share some key moments that stand out for you?
I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve experienced throughout my career. A few moments that stand out include my Boiler Room sets in San Francisco at Halcyon and Toronto. Playing at Elrow in Barcelona and Miami were also surreal experiences. Another unforgettable moment was returning to Coda post-pandemic with friends, as it marked a big step back toward normalcy for all of us.
What’s it like to tour globally as an artist? Tell us about the highs and lows of life on the road.
Having this career at a global level certainly distinguishes you from the local stuff that seems to pervade many DJs and producers in the early part of their careers, meaning that they put some sort of higher value or need of being recognized by their peers and clubs at home. Focusing globally shows you that the world is a big place and you don’t need to emphasize on that acknowledgement so much. As a result, my ‘high’ is being to touch people through my music and performances well beyond my hometown. To know that people drive miles, take flights, and support your music in various ways is the ultimate high for me. It’s been great to chat to you.
Do you have any other upcoming projects you can share with us?
It’s been a pleasure. Upcoming projects include my remix of Kerri Chandler’s, ‘I Got This Feeling’ and another EP in tribute to my Mother called, ‘Grooves From Mama’s Kitchen’ that will be available on my Purveyor Underground Limited label.
Follow Demuir: Instagram – Soundcloud – Beatport
