Ultra Music Festival veteran, Mykris is livin’ the DJ dream, touring around the world and bringing music and energy to crowds from Miami to Tokyo. This March he takes his talents to South China for one of the most-hyped party events in recent memory, Electric Wonderland: White Ibiza in Guangzhou.
In the lead-up to his March 16 concert at W Guangzhou alongside another great DJ, JP Candela, we caught up with Mykris to discuss his Ultra journey, China’s growing EDM scene and encounters with famous celebrities.
Image via Xin Wang Group
You were born in France, raised in Spain, and now reside in Miami, US. And when you’re not in the studio, you’re out touring around Europe and Asia. It doesn’t get more global than that, right?
Well, I would like to be more global and I believe everyone can always broaden his or her horizons. I really like to travel and experience different cultures, cuisines and play for different audiences. I’m grateful that music has brought me to so many different places.
From your days playing around with decks as a teenager, to your realized dream of becoming a successful DJ, tell us about your journey.
It has definitely been a long journey. I went from being in the crowd at Ultra in 2007 to performing on the main stage six years later in 2013. I have always been a fan of electronic music and DJing, but after that night at Ultra I knew something had changed inside me, and I told myself I wanted that thrill. I feel fortunate and grateful for the opportunity Ultra gave me to share my music, feelings and energy with all the people in Miami and also around the world. This was one of my goals, and I was determined to make it happen no matter what.
Image via Xin Wang Group
You have shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the business, including the Chainsmokers, Tiesto, Martin Garrix, Hardwell, Calvin Harris, Deadmau5, Steve Aoki, DJ Snake, Skrillex, David Guetta, Carl Cox and the list goes on. Who left the biggest impression on you?
I admire a lot of them for different reasons, so it’s difficult to pick only one. I can tell you that I admire Hardwell’s energy and his music; DJ Snake and David Guetta's ability to make hit after hit; KSHMR’s fresh ethnic/oriental vibes, amazing tracks and production skills along with his modesty; Armin Van Buuren's amazing melodies and the feelings he puts into his tracks; and Carl Cox’s never-ending energy, smiles and good vibes during his sets. I admire all of them, as well as others who weren’t mentioned here.
Image via Xin Wang Group
Is there anything you have coming up on the horizon that you’d like to share?
I’m currently working way more in the studio; a few collaborations with great friends and DJs I really enjoy working with are coming out soon. On top of that, there is a remix and a single that are on the way. I can’t say much for now, but more info on both are coming soon. I have always been more focused on touring and DJing than I have on making more music. I feel that it is time to start making way more music and I’m now more motivated than ever before. I’ll definitely be touring less this year in an effort to create some more music.
While you’re touring around the world and playing at some pretty special venues, you’ve more than likely met some famous people on the road. Has there ever been an encounter where you were totally shell-shocked and didn't know what to say?
While I’m not a shy person, per se, first encounters can leave me a little tongue-tied. I have met all kinds of Hollywood celebrities, actors, singers, sports stars and also socialites like Paris Hilton. Although I might look like an extroverted guy, the reality is that I can also appear shy in the beginning and, as you said, sometimes I might lose my words.
Image via Xin Wang Group
The market for EDM and house music in China is growing exponentially these days, have you experienced this via your travels in China? What makes the Chinese crowds so special?
China is all about growing. Since I was a teenager, I’ve been saying that China will be at the top of the world. The PRC already ranks second among countries in economic activity and now its growing faster than any country on the day-to-day, so I’m not surprised that electronic music is growing just as fast. The Chinese crowd is very selective but also one of the best in Asia. In China, they like hip hop and trap a lot, they really know how to party, they have great clubs and they are very hospitable.
What cities have you toured in China over the past few years? Can you give us a top three?
I’ve been to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu and Shanghai, among others. The next time I visit Chengdu, I’ve got to visit the pandas! Personally, I really enjoyed Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. I thought they were all beautiful cities with stunning views and illuminating skylines. There are also a lot of things to do, which keeps the tour exciting and fresh. In China, a lot of cities relatively unknown to the rest of the world are actually bigger than more well-known cities overseas.
Image via Xin Wang Group
Speed round: Pizza Hut or Domino’s Pizza? Burger King or McDonald’s? Samosas, Curry or Kebabs? Go!
I’m not that selective when it comes to pizza, but I would go for Domino’s. The Burger King or McDonald’s debate is where things get tricky; I would select McDonald’s for the fries and Burger King for their Whopper if I had to choose. I’m also a big fan of kebabs. However, I recently started cutting down on fast food in an effort to be a healthier guy.
Anything you’d like to add?
Yes, a very special thank you to my management Xin Wang Group and Music Fest Asia for making all these China shows happen in the best way possible!
Watch Mykris performing live at Ultra Music Festival in Miami below (VPN off):
Looking to snag tickets to see Mykris and JP Candela live in Guangzhou over White Valentine’s weekend? You can save your spot here (or by scanning the QR code below) for RMB98, which includes one free drink.
For those planning to attend, remember to get creative with your attire, but make sure you follow the dress code: WHITE. For more info, contact info@xin-wang.com.
Sat Mar 16, 9pm-late; RMB98 presale, RMB150 at the door, both tickets include one drink; dress code: white. Fei, W Guangzhou. Buy tickets here. See event listing.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
[Cover image via Xin Wang Group]
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