June 01, 2009

Gilles Peterson - World domination, one track at a time

By Rachelyn Gordon

Acclaimed DJ, record label cultivator of worthy ear candy and founder, I dare say, of musical diversity. If this list isn't impressive enough, you can now go ahead and include Gilles Peterson as the man responsible for bringing a weekend of splendid revelry right here, to Singapore.

Back for the second time with his knockout music festival, MTV Asia sat him down for a chat faster than you can say "Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Festival Beach Weekender 2009".

How does it feel to be back?

It feels good, absolutely great. It's always good to be back.

Is this the best job in the world?

Haha, well yea! I mean I'm always having a good time and music is great. This is a great job, yea!

You have achieved many firsts for yourself, setting up your own music station on Radio 1, a record label and of course, this [Worldwide Festival]. What is your motivation? What inspires you?

I guess it's simply to be able to bring good music out there, for the people to enjoy. It's great satisfaction for everyone.

It feels good to see people move to the beats and have a good time huh?

Definitely, that happens and my job is done. You know?

Is there competition among DJs? Or is it one big happy family?

These DJs come from all over the world, and they bring with them their own flavors. There is competition to be the best and stand out but I think it's good; it pushes them to explore themselves and their own limitations.

It is healthy competition then?

Yea definitely, brings out the best in them.

There are people who might not get or appreciate this art of putting together a collage of different genres of music. What do you have to say to that?

People are entitled to their own opinions, as long as there are still those who love what we are doing, it's all good.

You wouldn't say that those who don't appreciate such collaborations are missing on something great?

Hahaha, that's one way to put it, hahaha. Maybe, maybe.

Who are your favorite DJs right now? What are you listening to?

Wow I have so many. I'm listening to everyone from all over the place. Big on Detroit techno now.

Ever had a lady flash at you as a way of showing appreciation of your music?

Oh yes, I've got that, used to have more of it when I wasn't married though, hahaha! I do have a stalker.

A stalker?

Yea, I had to get the whole police protection order and all. She sent me letters and stuff, it went on for quite a while actually.

Do you still get mail from her?

I actually do, I received a letter from her not long ago!

Wow, that takes enthusiasm to a whole new level, haha! Okay, you have to be on stage in about five minutes so let's wrap things up with three words to describe Singapore's music scene right now.

Watch the underground, there is always something going on beneath. It's a great scene!

And with that, Gilles Peterson was rushed out of Café Del Mar for his much anticipated set while I prepared myself to raise my arms, dance and celebrate the display of myriad musical genres.