Carl Cox. Photo Credit: Dan Reid.
Renowned electronic musician and British techno icon Carl Cox is set to light up Brooklyn with his upcoming performance. He took a moment to discuss his exciting shows, musical inspirations, and insights on the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Brooklyn Show
Cox is gearing up for his “Teksupport” show at Brooklyn Storehouse on March 21st, and his enthusiasm is palpable. “I’m always excited to come to New York. It’s always a challenge,” he says, referencing the city’s intense energy and high expectations. Having performed at various iconic venues, including Avant Gardner and Central Park, he adds, “This show will be nothing like either of those. Beyond itself. I’ve come prepared to change the game once again. So, get your dancing shoes on because the level of what I did last time is another level today.”
Ultra Music Festival in Miami, Florida
Following his Brooklyn show, Cox will grace the stage at the Ultra Music Festival in Miami later this month. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the festival holds a special place in his heart: “Last year, I did my biggest live show at Ultra Music Festival. This year, it’s their 25-year anniversary, and I’ve been there for at least 24 of them,” he reflects, emphasizing the significance of his long-standing relationship with the event.
Music and Songwriting Inspirations
Cox shares his journey through a vast library of music that fuels his creativity. “Sometimes I just go in there and pull out a few tracks that I’ve completely forgotten about. Then, I play them and think, ‘Wow, now that’s what I’m talking about.’” His creative process is intimate, as he explains, “Most of it comes from my brain into my heart, and then into my hands.” Drawing inspiration from a collection that dates back to 1964, Cox appreciates the rich tapestry of sounds at his disposal.
“A lot of my inspiration comes from Jean-Michel Jarre,” he notes, admiring how Jarre combined analog sounds to create timeless pieces like “Oxygen.” For Cox, innovation is rooted in the blend of old and new, which is evident in his own work.
The Digital Age
Diving into the digital transformation of the music industry, Cox reflects, “Now, you don’t need a full band setup. You open up your laptop, and you have access to a world of sounds.” He observes that while the shift from analog to digital was inevitable, it has also led to a certain complacency among aspiring artists. “You don’t have to go to music school anymore, especially now with AI,” he states, underscoring both the potential and pitfalls of technological advancements in music creation.
AI on the Future of the Industry
With the rise of artificial intelligence in music, Cox expresses cautious optimism: “AI is a good tool to be inspired by… the things it comes up with are actually unbelievable.” However, he emphasizes the importance of originality and personal touch, stating, “You can’t call something created with AI your own because it was generated digitally.” For Cox, the essence of music lies in the unique vision and talent of the artist, even amid the rapidly changing landscape created by technology.
DJ Mag Recognition
Cox’s impact on the electronic music scene is undeniable, having been recognized as the “Best DJ in the World” in both 1996 and 1997 by DJ Magazine. Recent accolades include the “Outstanding Contribution Award” at the 2023 DJ Mag Top 100 DJs ceremony. Reflecting on his journey, Cox humbly states, “My journey has been incredible. If anyone asked how I’m still doing this… it’s not just about me; it’s about the supporters of my music.”
Superpower
Cox believes his superpower lies in “sharing the love of music.” He emphasizes authenticity over social media metrics: “It’s all about sharing the love of music.” Even in the age of algorithms and followers, he remains committed to the core of his artistry. “Here’s a great record. I’ll put a needle to the record, or I’ll put it in digitally, and I’ll play it,” he explains, asserting his dedication to music’s essence.
Stage of His Life
Looking at this stage of his life, Cox identifies as a “more electronic live performer now.” His recent endeavors illustrate his desire to showcase his music beyond DJing. “I wanted to really show people that outside of DJing, I can actually create and perform my own music,” he explains. With an array of studio equipment, he creates live performances that embody both his digital and analog expertise.
Carl Cox Honors the Legacy and Influence of James Brown
In celebration of Black History Month, Cox paid tribute to James Brown’s enduring influence with his new remix project titled “I’m Black And I’m Proud – Say It Loud (Remixes).” This project, released through Universal Music Enterprises (UMe), showcases his respect for a musical legend and is available on various digital platforms. For those keen to explore, the remix project can be found by clicking here.
To keep up with Carl Cox’s journey, follow him on Instagram and Facebook, or visit his official website.
