Life behind the decks

Having started his career as a DJ in 2007, R3hab has been globetrotting with his signature electro house sounds and kinship with Dutch producer Afrojack.

Over the years, he’s become a well-known DJ and producer who travels the country for the Sunburn concert. During a chat with ‘Metrolife’, he spoke about his love and passion for dance music.

Tell us about your stage name. 

It’s a mix of things I relate to. A series of life events led me to the name ‘R3hab’. And it had to be something different, so I thought ‘why not’!

You’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the big names in the industry. Any particular path you take when approaching them and their sounds?

All the remixes I have produced have been with wonderful and creative artistes. Thanks to the common ground we share, we were able to create good music that was in sync with both our thoughts.

Is there anyone you want to collaborate with in particular?

I think it depends on the vibe you’re aiming for. If it’s a daytime vibe, I’d need something euphorical. If it’s for the end of the night, then something that’s thumping, especially if you are going on after someone like Tiesto or Afrojack. But at the moment, I would just like to make sure that I’m working with someone good and we produce good work.

Tell us about your experience in India.

This is my third time in India, and it’s been a pleasure. It’s a beautiful country with lovely people and every time I perform, I can feel the love.

Your opinion about the music scene in India?

I’m sure every DJ who has been to India has a fabulous time. I have seen and now, understood how music is evolving in India. It definitely grows each time I come back.

Do you think a crowd can appreciate the intricacies of being a DJ if they don’t know what is happening behind the decks? 

Well, nobody would understand what happens behind the decks unless you are a DJ yourself. It’s a lot of hard work to mix and ensure that you interact with the crowd and keep them pumped up. So, all they see is a good artiste and hear amazing music, and that should be the highlight.

You are a man of the world — tell us about the best party you’ve been to.
It’s hard to pick one, all of them are amazing!

Name three things that are essential to you being a DJ (apart from the basic equipment).

My manager, headset and comfortable shoes.

(As told to Anila Kurian)