Interview: Apster on His First-Ever Show in Guangdong

By That's PRD, August 16, 2017

Having received considerable backing from the likes of Laidback Luke and Erick Morillo early in his career, Apster has gone on to work alongside a number of fellow Dutch deck masters, including Nicky Romero, Bassjackers, Firebeatz and Afrojack. He‘s also produced songs and remixes for renowned international artists such as Hardwell, Pitbull, Bingo Players and Jennifer Lopez.

With a love of music derived from his Moroccan heritage as well as Michael Jackson, RnB, funk and French hip-hop, Apster is crafting a growing body of work that ranges from progressive house to filthy electro.

Catch the up-and-coming Dutch DJ this month at his debut show in Guangdong province, held at Fei in the W Guangzhou on August 26. Below, we grill the DJ on his career, China and upcoming ‘The Money Fight’ between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor.

You've been working closely with Afrojack and Wall Records, when did this relationship start?
It started in 2010, we became friends after sharing the same agency and music vision.

What was it like performing on the iconic Great Wall of China, sharing the stage with fellow Dutchmen Afrojack and Armin van Buuren?
It is still one of my highlights and most memorable moments in my career. The Festival was crazy and the location even crazier. Realizing that history and music came together at this point was an amazing experience.

We've heard you've worked with the likes of Hardwell, Afrojack, Bingo Players, Firebeatz and Nicky Romero, tell us a bit about what you took away from these experiences?
It made me a better producer working with and learning from such talented DJs and producers.

Aside from working with fellow star DJs, you've also done some work for/with pop stars like Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez. Who else from the ‘world of pop’ could you see yourself collaborating with?
I see myself working with Calvin Harris one day. He is the best producer there is in my opinion, that guy can produce everything from EDM/funk/pop/etc. Legend!

How does performing at Ultra Miami and Ultra Europe differ to, say, Tomorrowland? What about King’s Day?
They’re all amazing. However, Tomorrowland is like a 40-minute drive away from my home, so it feels more like home to me. King’s Day is a crazy national party that brings the whole Dutch nation together in every big and small city or village in our country to celebrate our King’s birthday.

Any noteworthy collaborations in the pipe?
New Apster and Firebeatz collab coming in the next few months!

You've performed in Shanghai before, how did the crowds there compare to other global metropolises?
Shanghai is a great modern city and people are really into EDM. Every time I play they go crazy, I love Shanghai!

We understand this is your first time performing in Guangdong province, tell us a bit about your expectations?
I have no idea to be honest, but every time I play a new area in China I get surprised by the crazy Chinese party energy, so I have a feeling it will be very good!

Favorite Chinese dish?
Foe yong hai!

Tell us about the strangest thing you have ever eaten. Is there a line for you when it comes to edibles?
I’m a sissy when it comes to food. The strangest things I’ve eaten are beef, chicken filet and fish (only salmon, tuna and crab), so that’s where I draw the line!

Who would you bet USD100 on: Floyd Mayweather Jr. or Conor McGregor?
Floyd Mayweather for sure. They're fighting boxing rules not UFC rules, so Conor will lose because he doesn’t have boxing experience and won’t be able to keep it going 12 rounds. I do boxing myself, so I want the boxing sportsman to win.

Favorite music outside of the EDM genre?
Hip hop and RnB.

Anything else you’d like our readers to know?
Cash me in da club how bow dah! And very special thanks to Xin Wang and MusicFest.Asia for bringing me out!