Ryan Gary Raddon – or Kaskade, as he’s more commonly known for – is a man who can say he’s truly had an illustrious career. At 44 years old, he’s gotten Grammy nominations, singles since 2001 and more than $17 million earned in the bank, according to Forbes.
But the man’s human. What did he want before his ZoukOut set? A cheeseburger.
Specifically, the In ‘N Out Animal Style – “grilled onions”, according to the man. We sized him up for the spice of the hour in a one-on-one interview on the sidelines of the International Music Summit at W Singapore on Dec 11, right before he performed his ZoukOut set:
On getting two Grammy nominations this year: I don’t think it matters as far as the creation process goes, but it is nice to be recognised by your peers. It’s like you come home and, oh, it’s nice to get an award. It’s not what I strive to do. For me, it’s more about playing great shows and writing. If my peers think it’s great, it’s the cherry on top.
On drug-fuelled raves: Are we doing enough? I feel like most promoters are forthcoming and direct because there have been so many problems in the past. You put (disclaimers) on cigarettes and alcohol, but they’re still on there. At one point, it becomes redundant. People in the community are finally beginning to speak up. I think there is a good dialogue around this issue. I don’t know what more we can do, but it’s possible to enjoy these parties sober.
On collaborations: I’ve been talking to Diplo about making music. That dude has a crazier schedule than mine. I’m sure one of these days, it’ll happen.
On life outside DJ-ing: I’ve got three children, so I hang out with my wife and kids. I try to go surfing on the beach and enjoy snowboarding. I lived in Utah briefly – went to a college there – and I love snowboarding. I prefer surfing, but I’m a much better snowboarder. I think I need to surf more!
On the future: Here in Asia, I’d like to bring my arena show over here. The concert experience is rather unique than seeing me on a festival lineup, so I’d like to see it progress to that point.
On piracy killing the music business: I’m not worried about people not buying the music – I’m a touring artist. Listen, it’d be wonderful if everyone bought the music or streamed it off such services. But what’s most important is that people hear the music. Whether downloading illegally or streaming off sites that don’t pay, it doesn’t bother me – I want them to hear it first. If somebody hears a song and it motivates them to get it, I think it’s important that they turn up at the show and hear the catalogue of music that I make.
ZoukOut continues tonight (Dec 12). Tickets available here. All ticket holders get access to the pool party on Dec 12, 2-6pm at Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.
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