Music makes the world go round: DJ Shashank

0
Advertisement

Hyderabad has been in the news off late for its cool party scene. Whatever type of celebration, parties are incomplete without music. Be it a birthday party, or a wedding gathering – to ensure a night of dancing, we need people who spin out some great tracks to get it started. Nowadays even our weekend plans are made depending on our mood – which then decides the place, ambience and genre of the music we want to listen to. Be it House when you want to relax, or hip-hop or Bollywood when you want to shake a leg – we have ample of options to pick from.

It is safe to say that the party scene in the city has been growing and getting better, and the credit goes to the people who make it happen. This month, in order to celebrate the men who make us party, we caught up with some of the best DJs in the city, who excel in their respective genres.

Text: Anahita Ahuja

Burning the Dance Floor

Full of infectious energy and an undying spirit to spread joy and love, Shashank Kakum better known as DJ Shashank, is known for bringing fresh mixes weaved with unique loops, crazy vocals, unexpected blends of sounds and stylized rhythmic beats. Mastering the art of playing Commercial music that is simply put, he has played for Asia’s biggest festival called Sunburn Festival, Tomorrowland Unite, and has performed at all the major cities across India. Shashank works towards making his crowd happy, ensuring that they dance the night away. In a candid conversation, we learn more about the man behind the console.

How did you get interested in music?

I have loved dancing from my childhood, so I used to dance in my school festivals. That is where I picked listening to music and I used to listen to a lot of Rock and Retro. It all started then…

Tell us about your story…

To be honest, I never thought I would reach where I am now. I started my DJing career at a place called Could 9 in Begumpet and worked there for a couple of years. Then I got a call from one of the most happening places in Hyderabad called Touch. I even started playing for collage Fresher’s parties and private gigs. People and my bosses liked my music and gave me the opportunity to work as their club’s DJ. Everything started to change from then. I played with one of the best DJs in India at Touch and that is what was my biggest arriving night in the city. The other milestone was in 2012, which was a huge change in my DJing carrier as I joined Over TheMoon. I still play there.

Which year did you start playing in?

It was way back in 2007 when it all started.

What was your first gig? How did it go?

My first gig was at a New Year’s Eve party at Taj Banjara. I was extremely nervous at the starting of gig but as the night progressed, the entire experience got amazing.

What are the challenges as a DJ?

None that I can really think of.

One secret to being a good DJ?

The secret would be to play what the crowd likes.

How did you end up specialising in Commercial?

I love playing dance music. No matter what the music genre is. As long as there is some dance element, it works well with the crowd. To my advantage, that kind of music is called Commercial!

Most common mistakes newcomers make?

Most of them think it is all party, whereas there is a lot of serious work behind it too.

Which track do you best relate to with your life?

This is what it feels like – Armin Van Buuren

Most memorable night as a DJ

In 2015 when I shared the DJ console with my idol, none other than Armin Van Burren.

One track that does not get too old, no matter how many times you have heard it?

Time of our lives – Paul Van Dyk

If you could eternally be stuck in one year’s music scene – which year would it be?

2016

Which festivals do you enjoy playing at?

Sunburn festivals and College Campus festivals as the energy is amazing.

Your favourite non dance song?

Hey Now – London Grammar

What do you usually start with, while preparing for a set?

I make sure there is a really good intro tune when I make my set – the way you start is important. It is what sets your impression with the crowd.

What place in the city has an appetite for the kind of music you specialise in?

Over The Moon

 

Advertisement

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here