Jimbo James
Hot Berlin artist, David Pher, is our first Lovecast guest of 2017.
David’s brilliant productions have made it into the catalogues of many top-notch labels; including Crosstown Rebels, Gruuv, Tsuba, VIVa Music, OFF Recordings, Kittball, and his latest on Solid Grooves.
We’ve been somewhat obsessed with David Pher since his 2014 jam “Footsteps” on Gruuv, so we’re hyped to feature him on the Lovecast series.
Enjoy his groovy mix and learn more about David in the interview below.
Lovecast Episode 168 – David Pher
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Interview with David Pher
How did you first get introduced to underground dance music? What is the most challenging part of becoming a touring artist?
My first experience with underground music was in Ibiza in the 90s. I was at Pacha, El Divino, Privilege and Space. The parties, the craziness and of course the music touched my soul.
The most challenging thing at the moment of a touring artist is to get gigs nowadays. The music market has changed so much in the past years. Everyone wants to be a DJ and it’s never been easier to DJ before, at least technically. There are so many people out there who just want to present themselves – it’s not the passion for music but it is just the thing to gets lots of attention. If you are a social media expert and very narcissistic you pay half of the bill. Hire a ghost producer, work on your social media presence and tell everybody how cool you are. Thats how many “Djs & producers“ roll.
Many promoters don’t care about the music, they judge you on the followers you have on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. It’s a shame. The good thing about touring is that you meet lots of interesting people, see crazy places and cities and become a part of great parties. It can also be very challenging being wasted at airports if you fly back directly from an after hours.
What has been the most exciting turning point of your career so far?
My first release including the track “Harare“ got lots of attention and was playing the big clubs directly after my first release. I had no experience as DJ but it was a great time.
Another turning point was my first release on Audiojack’s Gruuv label. The track “Footsteps“ got played by many underground DJs around the globe and took me back to business after a little break.
Where is your home base? If someone were visiting there for the first time, what clubs and/or parties and/or restaurants would they want to check out?
Berlin. I guess it needs no more words 🙂 A club I really like in Berlin is “Golden Gate“. I’m living in Berlin now since 10 years and the club never really changed much. They stayed authentic. The door policy is quite easy and music is often very good. It is a small, dirty venue but very techno. “Dudu“ in Mitte is also great asian restaurant. “Marques“ in Kreuzberg is a great place to eat tapas. Burgermeister at Kottbusser Tor also have good burgers and Hasir Restaurant is great for Turkish food.
What advice would you give to an aspiring producer?
Do what you love but don’t forget to do something else. Work, study …. only a few DJ´s can live from the job quite good. Its a tough business. It is important to have something else in the hand. Follow your dreams but don’t forget reality. An aspiring producer should find its way of sound – create a unique sound.
What’s on the horizon for David Pher in 2017?
My release on Solid Grooves just came out. Soon there will be a release on Monotonik records from Ukraine. An EP on Deeperfect is also ready and I’m looking forward to my upcoming release on Gruuv. It’s gonna have a remix of one of my all time favorite producers.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music?
Sure. Sports, meeting friends, going to bars. Art. Tinder 😉
What are some touristy things you do in your off-time while touring?
I often just walk through the city center and see whats going on. Seeing the architecture of the cities and go to museum from time to time.
Dream gig…
Womb – Tokyo
Tell us about your mix…
I tried to keep it groovy and deep I like taking listeners on a little journey. hope u enjoy.
Drink of choice…
Wine. Champagne. Wodka.
CHEERS!
– jams
Jimbo James
Editor-in-Chief