Mon, July 30, 2012
For John Tejada, music is definitely in the blood. Ahead of his Friday show at Lantern, he sat down with City Weekend to talk about his family, his music, and how those two things relate.
Growing up with musically inclined parents, did you always have an interest in music?
I suppose I did. My parents got me started on the piano at an early age. Then I began hearing stuff like The Beatles and it all sort of went from there. Drums, Dj’ing, samplers and synths all followed and all kinds of music.
Did being raised by parents who both specialize in classical music have a big impact on your outlook on music?
It must have, but I just don’t know otherwise I guess. With both being so involved in music and having me start at a young age must have had something to do with it.
When did you first become interested in the DJ scene?
At around age 10. I would tape dj mixes off the radio and I wanted badly to learn how djs were doing all those mixes and tricks. I had to find out and learn how to do it myself.
How would you describe your sound?
I guess I would say optimistic. I feel there is a sense of hope in many of my works.
Has traveling to so many different locations around the world had an influence on your music or the way you perform?
It must have. I’ve been really lucky that way. It is very interesting to see how different scenes respond to certain sounds and to find out how global of a music scene this has really become.
We know you’ve collaborated with several different artists over the years. Is there any one artist in particular that you most enjoyed working with?
Arian Leviste is my longest collaborator at 21 years. However the other people I closely collaborate with, Justin Maxwell, Takeshi Nishimoto, Josh Humphrey are all equally important to me. Each have a real strong point that is very educational to be around. They are all experts at certain aspects and it’s a joy to learn from them.
Are you excited to be back in Beijing and performing at Lantern this month?
I have never been to Beijing so it is very exciting!
Anything you’re looking forward to about this trip other than your performance?
The entire trip really. My first time in China. Very much looking forward to it!
DETAILS
What: Footprint Presents: John Tejada
Where: Lantern Club
When: Jul 13th, 10pm - 6am, RMB150 (door), RMB100 (advance)
