365Mag Interview: Richard Durand

[Cupe]

We have some breaking news for In Search of Sunrise lovers all around the world. The franchise and compilation series had been placed in the able hands of none other than Richard Durand. Instead of discontinuing the acclaimed series Black Hole Recordings has handed Richard Durand the torch so to speak, and the results are quite promising.

We look forward to the release as well as future installments. Richard feels quite strongly in regards to the continuation and as a result this had inspired him to accept this task.

It's no secret that you have taken over the In Search Of Sunrise franchise. Can you tell us how it came about that you were offered to mix the latest and eighth in the esteemed compilation series?

Tiësto parted with Black Hole Recordings and ended the In Search Of Sunrise series. I've always had and always will have a lot of respect for Tiësto. The mantle was sort of handed to me to carry on the torch, after Tiësto moved on. I was very honored to take on the task!

What was your immediate reaction to the news once you heard you would be invited to mix the compilation?

When Black Hole Recordings approached me about the mix, I thought long and hard before saying yes. I've always been a big ISOS fan myself and after weighing all the pros and cons, I decided to do the mix in part because I couldn't bear the thought of such a fantastic and globally adored compilation series coming to an end.

How do you intend on continuing the sentiment behind the series?

I've really tried to maintain the ISOS concept as much as possible. With that said, I'm not Tiësto, and so I choose other records than he would have chosen. I have my own personality and tastes as a DJ, producer and performer! I think the release has turned out great and I'm sure that true ISOS fans will really enjoy it.

What noticeable changes have you seen in regards to the increase of your audience over the years?

When you are getting bigger as an artist, more people know you and the places that you perform are getting bigger and bigger. My first gig outside of Holland was Turnmills in the UK for 100 people. Last New Years Eve I was playing at Sensation Australia for over 50,000 people… so there is some increase, as you can see! [laughs]

How difficult is it for a DJ to learn how to play to the crowd, and which methods do you feel are the best for acquiring this skill?

I don't think that this is something you can learn. You need to “feel” the crowd. You have to pretend that you are on the dance-floor yourself. Only then do you know what the crowd wants.

Can you tell us how you linked up with Jes for your latest collaboration track?

I love the voice of JES. She already completed so many beautiful tracks. She is with the same label as I am (Black Hole Recordings). So the connection was easily made.

Is there any particular reason you decided to name your track “N.Y.C.”?

Well, just listen to the track and you will have your answer. [laughs]

What other collaborations are you currently working on?

I cannot tell you about this at the moment, but stay tuned!

Are there any up and coming artists that you believe the world should be keeping an eye on?

Yes, Alexander O'Rion…he is a very gifted guy.

Have you begun working on your next artist album?

I will start working on a new track next week and then take a look at planning for the next album.

Do you anticipate dabbling in any other genres of electronic music in the future?

Who knows? It will always be dance, but there are so many styles and genres. I am already making different types of music than I did three years ago.

You have an upcoming North American tour, what are some of the cities you will be performing in?

I am just back from San Francisco and L.A., and new dates are pending at the moment. You can see my latest tour dates on my website.

Can you share some of the highlights of your recent performance at Webster Hall in New York alongside Cosmic Gate?

Webster Hall was great! New York is one of my favorite cities in the entire world to perform in. The people are free and open-minded. I love that atmosphere!

Which of your own productions do you personally find yourself listening to most often in your spare time?

None! I never listen to dance, or trance, or house music during my spare time. In my down time, I only listen to news programs or talk shows.

When you are not on tour or in the studio, what hobbies or activities do you engage in?

I love to play pool with friends and go out for a nice dinner.

There are so many successful DJs that originate from The Netherlands in comparison to other countries. Any idea why this may be?

Because we are the best? No, seriously…I don't know.

We look forward to catching you on your upcoming ISOS 8 tour! Do you have any other comments for our readers?

I hope to see you all when I'm back in the U.S. this summer!