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Interview with
DJ TravellingWill

(18th February 2024)

Interview with Dave Bruce

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Have you always wanted to be a musician? When did you get the song writing bug?
Not always. I’ve always been fascinated by how complex real world patterns can be modelled in a logical and systematic way through mathematics which ultimately drove me to pursue a mathematics major at university. DJing requires recognising, and in a way modelling patterns in music, especially when blending different tracks or transitioning between them. Additionally, I produce my own music, which is quite technical. I’m currently exploring automated transitioning and mixing using Python and AI, aiming for seamless transitions where the songs harmonise naturally. Just as in mathematics, where we strive for optimal matches, DJing shares a similar philosophy. Thus, I believe my affinity for patterns propelled me into the world of DJing.

How would you describe your sound? Why do you think fans resonate with your music?
I focus on blending Korean pop music (K-pop) with various international genres, particularly Latin music and Bollywood, so I would describe my music as very international. Well known examples of K-pop artists include BTS, Blackpink and PSY. I think fans from all over the world resonate with my music because they can relate to it no matter their cultural origins. My goal is to bring people together on the dance floor, transcending cultural boundaries, gender, and other characteristics. By mixing K-pop with Latin and other international beats, I can unite K-pop enthusiasts (who often dance to the distinctive choreography of K-pop songs) with Latin and other international dancers, fostering a sense of unity on the dance floor.

Which artist’s music and/or performance, past or present, inspires you today? 
Zico’s (Woo Ji-ho) music serves as a source of inspiration for me. As a largely self-made artist and a prominent figure on social media, Zico gained widespread recognition through viral TikTok videos featuring his hit track “any song.”

Is there any new music on the drawing board? What are you working on atm?
Currently, I’m delving into the challenge of blending K-pop with hip-hop, which poses a unique difficulty due to the importance of lyrics in both genres. It’s a challenge to ensure that the lyrics of the songs don’t clash when merging them together.

Any tours or events coming up soon? What are you looking forward to, and what can the fans expect?
Yes, I’m presently touring Australia with a few more shows lined up, which is why I have the pleasure of speaking with you at Amnplify! Soon, I’ll be moving onto the next leg of my world tour in Latin America, including stops in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and more! Additionally, I’m thrilled to announce plans for hosting the world’s largest K-pop party in Brazil. Stay tuned for updates by following me on Instagram (ID: travellingwill).

If you could perform with any music artist, Alive or Dead, who would you choose? And why? 
Zico. Dancing alongside him to the choreography of his hit track “any song” has always been a dream of mine.

What are your long-term aspirations as a music artist and how are you progressing towards them?
My aspiration is to bring people together on the dance floor, irrespective of their cultural backgrounds, gender, or other attributes. I’m progressing towards this goal by exploring and blending a variety of music genres from around the globe including Latin, Bollywood and more.

With that in mind, what piece of advice would you give to an artist starting out? 
Always be open to experimentation and trying new approaches to find what resonates with you. Don’t feel compelled to conform to the norms. To my knowledge, my specialisation in mixing K-pop with diverse international genres such as Latin music and Bollywood is quite niche, while the norm is to mix K-pop solely with EDM or stick to playing pure K-pop without mixing in any other genres.

What is the best thing about performing to a live audience? What’s been the career highlight so far?
The best thing about performing to a live audience is bringing joy to people and witnessing the smiles and excitement on their faces when their favourite song is played, while also fostering cultural unity on the dance floor. My career highlight so far has been securing acceptance from the largest party venue in Brazil to host the world’s biggest K-pop party in 2024.

Finally, a few questions for some quick answers –
FAVOURITE:
Album – Map of the soul – BTS
Artist – Zico
Movie – A Beautiful Mind
Place to visit – Venice
Venue to play – 215 Queen’s (Melbourne)
Food – Kimchi Pizza
Drink – Freshly squeezed orange juice, I don’t like alcohol but Peach flavoured Soju if I had to choose
Person in History –  Isaac Newton
Tattoo – (If you don’t have one, what would you get?)  Globe (to represent my constant travelling)

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Follow DJ TravellingWill
Instagram – Soundcloud

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AMNPLIFY – DB