Cem Güvendiren
We don’t know if we’re the only ones feeling that with the increase of new openings around town, places to listen to good music has decreased, which make zero sense. Let’s show a little gratitude to those we run to for some feel-good beats.
It seems as if almost everyone is a DJ these days, the title is frequently self-given. What do you think makes a good DJ?
Hello! Technology made DJ’ing more accessible and easier in a way. A good DJ needs to teach music while playing and make people feel good about themselves… His focus should purely be on music.
What are currently your main challenges as a DJ? What is it about DJ’ing, compared to, say, producing your own music, that makes it interesting for you?
I am focusing on other projects as well now so managing time is an issue. And keeping up with the lifestyle as we are getting old. DJ’ing is a lot of fun, building an ambiance and introducing a vibe to peoples lives is a great feeling to share.
What would be the last song you play?
Usually something more chill and little more out there, something to remember the moment by.
What makes you decide to play a particular record? Is there a criteria other than pure subjectivity, for selecting what to play at a gig?
It depends on the gig I am playing and the vibe we are in. I try to be diverse with my style whether it be a house disco or a techno record.
What’s your opinion on the importance of roots, traditions, respecting originals and sources, considering there are so many options nowadays when it comes to music and originality is a rare breed?
Collecting vinyl and playing actual records is something else. The thought that goes through it is more special than a digital way. People should be buying more records.
Can you talk a little bit about “Sleep is commercial?”
Sure, Sic is the main music label I represent. We are an Italian family out from Berlin. We have a boutique merchandising and record store as well. Check it out. www.sic-store. com
You recently began a career as a casting director. How did that come about?
I do casting directing for friends and environmental solutions now on the side, correct. Once I partly moved back home [Istanbul] I wanted to have other projects in hand. I tour less and focus on my businesses.
What are some places around the world, including Istanbul, to listen to some good disco music?
Ahh great question. Most places where my Red Motorbike crew is playing; lots of Australian good disco re-edit producers. Its not too common to listen to good disco sets I think. There isn’t much happening compared to other genres. There are great labels out there though, brilliant material.
Mixer’ın arkasına geçip çalmak için en ilham verici festival hangisi? Neden?
Her festival, yoğunluk arttıkça ve insanlar gerçekten eğlenmeye başladıkça önemlidir. Sardinya’daki CDV ve SIC tayfalarıyla gerçekleşen festivali seviyorum. Aile her şey demektir.
What festival is the most inspiring for you to get behind a mixer? Why?
Any festival is important as the intensity levels gets higher and people are there to really have fun. I like the one we do in Sardinia with CDV and SIC crew. Family is everything.