Ahead of his December gig, Buuren says he loves watching music aficionados 'go crazy' over his songs
Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren has been a fixture on the EDM circuit for over two decades. When he takes his music to fans across the globe, a gig in India is certain to crop up. For the past few years, Buuren has performed at several Indian concerts, including Sunburn (2016), Armin van Buuren - Live @ ASOT 700 Festival (2015) and A State of Trance, which was part of his Expedition World Tour in 2013. Now, ahead of his December visit to Lonavla as part of the Enchanted Valley Carnival, the musician talks to mid-day about the "open-minded" Indian audience that welcomes his work, and his love for AR Rahman.
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Armin van Buuren
Edited excerpts from the interview:
You seem to be a fan of India. What keeps bringing you back?
My Indian fans do. They are enthusiastic and passionate, and go crazy every time I perform. It's addictive to watch them party to the music I play.
What do you like the most about your Indian fans?
I love the fact that they are open-minded towards different up-and-coming genres, while also remaining passionate about the style of music they like. I think that's pretty uncommon.
Tell us how dance music has evolved?
In 2009, musicians had barely scratched the surface of what is today considered dance music. Today, the genre is bigger than it has ever been. This meteoric rise of the genre can largely be attributed to the fans; they have been vital to the growth.
Tell us about the set you will perform here?
I will play something new to keep you all excited.
Which Indian musicians are among your favourites?
I suppose every human being has enjoyed AR Rahman's music at some point in his/her life. His discography is the size of a freight train, and there's so much coming from him all the time. I'm also aware of Shaan's work, because he released a few records with Armada [Music; Dutch record label].
Many international DJs are exploring Bollywood music, the latest being Diplo. Does Hindi film music interest you?
I am open to trying new things if I feel it can add to who I am, either personally or professionally. So, in that way, Bollywood does interest me. We'll have to wait and see if that interest results in a collaboration.