In just a short span of time, Ian Asher has carved a niche for himself in the electronic music scene. With an infectious energy and a keen instinct for creating tracks that resonate with audiences, he has become a name to watch, thanks to his burgeoning catalog of releases and constantly packed live shows worldwide.
During a recent conversation with Rave Jungle, Ian shared his journey, diving into his early discoveries of electronic music, the electrifying experience of performing for massive crowds, and his insights into the music industry.
We delved into his high-energy productions, the lessons learned from global touring, and how the live testing of new ideas continues to shape his evolving sound.
Crafting High-Energy Records
When asked about his initial attraction to DJing, Asher explained, “I’ve been obsessed with electronic music since I was about 10 or 11. I don’t really remember a time before imagining myself building a career around it; this has always been my dream.” This passion has naturally evolved, building a foundation for his current work.
As he continued, the conversation shifted to the impact of live performances on his production approach. “My music has always been high energy… If you hear one of my tracks and love it, you should feel like jumping around in your room just like you would at one of my shows,” he stated.
The Creative Process
During periods of intense creative flow, Asher becomes wholly absorbed in his work. “When I’m in that zone, I’ll be obsessing over structure, pitching a vocal up half an octave, stuttering it, cranking the bass to 11… There’s no formula behind it. I just dive deep into the details until it feels right.”
His excitement for the future of dance music was palpable as he noted, “There’s so much incredible music being made all over the world. Genres are blending… and people are just following instinct. I get to contribute to that conversation in my own way, that’s pretty sick.”
Live Experiences and Audience Connection
For those experiencing his performances for the first time, Ian hopes they walk away feeling something significant. “I want it to feel raw and real… If someone leaves feeling like they experienced something — not just heard a set, that’s everything,” he explained.
Asher also addressed the pressures of success online. While he acknowledges the internal pressure that success brings, he emphasizes the importance of spontaneity. “What makes a record great is that it is a new spontaneous idea… I always remind myself to focus on what is new and exciting in the moment.”
Influences on His Music
When discussing musical influences, Asher revealed a surprising component of his sound, stating, “When I was growing up, I listened to a lot of Michael Jackson. He is the king!” This influence sheds light on the depth of his artistry.
Memorable Gigs and Trusting Your Sound
Every artist has those standout gigs that remain etched in their memory. For Ian, it was the Storm Festival in Guangzhou. “I played a few months ago, and it was absolutely epic. There were around 30,000 people there,” he recalled with excitement.
He also touched upon the moment he decides to test a new track live. “I’m a perfectionist… it’s much better to just dive in and play it,” he remarked, showcasing his willingness to experiment even when uncertain.
Inspiration Beyond Music
Travel has played a significant role in fueling his creativity. He shared, “It’s so great that I get to tour around the world; outside of music, that is where I get most of my inspiration.” This exploration enriches his sound and perspective.
Refining Technical Skills
While fans may not recognize the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating a polished final product, Asher has dedicated time to refining his mixing skills, finding joy in breaking traditional rules to create exciting new sounds.
Impactful Shows and Personal Growth
Ian also shared a recent highlight from San Francisco’s Midway, where he performed in a 360-degree setup for an audience of 2,800—a milestone he greatly cherished.
The conversation illustrated a key truth: Asher’s ascent in the electronic music realm is fueled by an unwavering passion for his craft and the dynamic connection he shares with his audience.
Whether tweaking production details in the studio or lighting up stages for thousands, Ian’s mission remains steadfast—creating music that elicits authentic reactions.
With upcoming shows and an expanding global fanbase on the horizon, Ian Asher’s vibrant journey is undoubtedly set for an exciting trajectory.
Stay tuned for his upcoming shows detailed below!
