How would you describe the nightlife scene in Singapore?
Vibrant, ever-evolving and definitely world class! Musically, it’s one of the fastest growing in Asia. Commercial EDM is quite prevalent, but more classic and fringe sounds are starting to really make a move here. There are more and more clubs knocking out some fantastic sounds lately and bringing a more underground feel to it all. It used to be small, dark and unknown clubs that played the more underground and traditional house, but now it’s starting to get a real go here. Singapore’s nightlife scene definitely ranks high on my list.
Best set ever?
It would have to be when I headlined alongside former world number one DJ Paul Oakenfold last year. He’s one of the reasons why I got into deejaying in the 1990s. So it was definitely a significant night for me, to be able to finally stand and play next to a legend who for the most part got me into [the scene]. That night, the crowd was absolutely off the hook and the energy was amazing too!
You’re known to be a self-taught DJ. How did you start teaching yourself? Would you like to be teaching one day?
I started watching other DJs and their techniques at clubs and on videos—well before YouTube! I also got friendly with a few DJs who let me watch and party with them near the booth at their gigs.
Then, I started DJing in high school, doing house parties with my parent’s home stereo system and a couple of CD players—well before I could afford proper gear!
To me, it’s not about what specific tracks you play. It’s about creating and building a vibe, reading what the crowd wants, responding to it, and then teasing them with that. I’ve often been asked to play a certain sort of music at clubs, and I do that only to realize it’s not working. So you need to shift about and be dynamic. It’s the DJ who is creating the vibe and mood and a large part of how vibrant the night is depends on the DJ’s performance. To me, to be able to move the crowd is what gives DJing a real sense of enjoyment.
From time to time, I’ve helped and coached up-and-coming DJs who are really into music and are passionate about the craft. But I don’t think I’d ever teach per se.
Do you prefer an indoor or outdoor set? Why?
Very hard question! I do enjoy indoor sets where people are fixated on the DJ and the music. But outdoor sets and beach party style events bring a completely different vibe and it’s much more of a party.
I’ve played at some amazing places around the world for outdoor events, and the ones where you’re banging out an amazing set on top of a cliff overlooking an ocean are pretty special moments. There’s also something deeply emotional about playing dance music to a crowd of people as you see the sun creeping over the horizon at dawn.
Is there a certain level of competitiveness when it comes to the DJ circuit? Or is everyone too tipsy to care?
Yes, there is certainly a level of it given that there are so many DJs out there now. It’s always a challenge to break into new markets where your name isn’t well known. Also, it’s a very personal kind of career in that people either like you, or they don’t. Not everyone is going to like your music or your style, irrespective of whether they appreciate your talent. So, it’s important to be able to accept that. And with that, competitiveness comes the personalities!
DJ Modium will be spinning the closing set of Tanjong Beach’s Full Steam Ahead on March 29 from 2-4am. Free.
