Exclusive Interview with DJ TINC

Siam2nite had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with DJ TINC, shortly before her performance at WATERLAND 2015 in Phitsanulok on 15th April.

You are DJ, Producer, Singer and Songwriter from Singapore. You play the piano and violin since the age of 6 and played in several bands as Vocalist and Keyboardist. In 2012 you have been the 2nd runner up for Pioneer Digital DJ Battle Singapore and you have held residencies in Singapore’s premier nightlife venues such and “The Butter Factory”, “Dream” &“Mink”. In 2014 you became the first and youngest female DJ to hold a monthly residency night at the legendary “ZOUK” (DJ MAG’s #7 Club in the world). How did you get in touch with electronic dance music in the first place and how did you get into DJing?

I have been a musician for my whole life, as you can already tell from my profile. I first discovered EDM when I went clubbing for the first time. I didn't even know there was such a role like a DJ who's controlling the music. I thought it was amazing to be able to program a night and "control" how people feel. I've always been writing songs for people and I love it when I can tell my music affected their moods. But it was on a more intriguing level when you get to watch a concert size audience to react instantly to you.

You play Electro- & Progressive House and Trap. How would you describe your own music in in a few words?

Well, I would use the words: Aggressive yet subtle, intriguing and unexpected.

What tracks or mix-sets would you recommend to someone that is not yet familiar with your music?

I would recommend them to listen to some Mad Decent, Armada Music and Spinnin' records music/artists. I follow these 3 labels very closely.

What are you currently working and focusing on and what’s on your agenda for the near future?

Currently I am back to focusing on writing my own originals. I started out writing classical and pop songs using my own vocals and lyrics. This time, I am producing my own EDM tracks with a mix genre of Trance and Electro/Progressive House. It will be real interesting to see how this goes, especially because I am also singing on all of my own tracks.

How is it to be an attractive female in this mainly male dominated business?

Tough. But at the same time easy. It's how people look at it really. I take it as a challenge, I don't really have haters, but haters make you stronger. Take all those negative culture and stereotype in this industry and turn it into your strength to become better. That's my take on this.

What were the most memorable & the most terrible gigs you have played and what were the funniest things occurring during your performances?

I have many memories, more good than bad ones thankfully. I would say the best one was the ones where I took a risk. The first time I stood up on the console and the view was amazing. The first leap into the crowd and stage diving was pretty cool too. Especially when you turn down the music and everyone sings and give you their upmost attention.

You were born and raised in Singapore. What can you tell us about clubbing and nightlife there? Do you have any nightlife related suggestions for first-time visitors?

I am born and raised in Singapore, and I have travelled to a lot of places. Music is universal, that's for sure. I stepped into so many clubs in so many different countries and they all play the same music. As for culture, we Singaporeans love to pre drink before hitting the clubs around midnight. We go to a bar, or have a small house party and the soon- to -die culture of drinking by the Singapore River on the bridges. Go to Clark Quay, good vibes there on the weekends. And make sure you go to Zouk, it's really one of the best club, in fact actually, the best club I've been to myself.

On 15th April you will perform at Next Get High’s WATERLAND Songkran Festival in Phitsanulok. Have you ever visited Thailand before? What can the Thai crowd expect of your upcoming performance?

I have visited Thailand many times, I love Thai food and the shopping in BKK. However, I have never been to Phitsanulok before so that will be interesting. It is also my first time spinning in Thailand so I will be watching the crowd on the 13th & 14th and hopefully, on the 15th I can do what I do best for the audiences. Hopefully bring some fresh music and style/culture into the festival, adding a bit of spice. I really am looking forward to this show, very exciting!