David Guetta
Whether he is playing an intimate gig at a club or headlining a full-on concert at a packed arena, David Guetta, one of the top DJs of the past decade, approaches it with the same level of intensity.
“Small or big crowd, I try to read the people the best possible way so I can give them an energetic show—a hard, crazy party,” the French electronic dance music record producer and songwriter told the Inquirer in a recent e-mail interview arranged by concert promoter, Wilbros Live.
That is exactly what he promised to give his Filipino fans, when he takes charge of the booth on Jan. 5, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The show is part of the Asian leg of Guetta’s ongoing “Unity” world tour, which is expected to make use of massive screens and projections, intricate light works and pyrotechnics (call 9115555).
“The tour is called ‘Unity,’ because that’s how I feel when I’m with my fans,” pointed out the 49-year-old DJ who, in 2015 alone, did over 100 shows worldwide, including headlining sets at some of the biggest music festivals such as Coachella, Electric Zoo and Ultra.
Things, however, weren’t always this lucrative. He started at different clubs in Paris in the late 1980s. But it wasn’t until 2009, when he released his fourth studio album, “One Love,” that he finally achieved worldwide recognition.
After the success of his breakthrough dance ditties, “I Gotta Feeling” and “When Love Takes Over,” Guetta went on to work with the likes of Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Usher and Sia.
He has so far sold over
44 million singles, and has consistently topped various DJ ranking lists—just some of his many achievements that earned him the nickname “The Grandfather of Electronic Dance Music.”
“That is such an amazing title to receive, but one that makes me sound quite old!” quipped Guetta, who specializes in house music.
Do you feel responsible for the immense popularity EDM is enjoying at the moment? A lot of DJs have played a big role in the evolution of electronic dance music, and I’m very thankful for every moment I have been a part of that evolution on the scene.
What inspires your music? There is no particular influence—there’s a lot, and it is difficult to define. I get influenced by everything and everyone around me. It could simply be the mood I am in, the things I am surrounded by.
Are you working on a new album? I’m working on a lot of new material right now. Creating new sounds is something very important to me.
How do your collaborations come about? Do you personally seek artists you’d like to work with? Sometimes, I meet the artists personally, then decide to hit the studio. Sometimes, it’s done through a record label. Then, there are those who send me demos. I like collaborating with different artists!
Which has been your most favorite collaboration? Do you still have a dream artist? “Titanium” with Sia was special for me! I’d love to work with Adele one day!
New DJs are coming out. How do you make sure your music stays current?
I like [the fact] that new DJs are emerging out of nowhere, since the electronic dance style is really about the evolution. As for me, I simply keep producing the way I think it is best.
What is David Guetta like outside the clubs, parties and shows? I enjoy taking time off with my children, because I’m on the road a lot. These things are important for me, as well.