One of the toughest things to do in any music genre is reach legendary status. In order for an artist to reach legendary status in dance music, a few things have to happen. First of all, their career has to go beyond the 15-year mark (doesn't sound like that long, but in dance music it's an accomplishment if you're still producing hits after three years). Second of all, you still need to be actively touring, "living legend" always sounds better. And lastly, they need to have their own label. Not to say that this is the end all be all list, but they're certainly three aspects that every legendary DJ-producer has checked off. One man that certainly falls into this category is British DJ-producer, John Digweed. First breaking out onto the scene in the early 90s with his partner in crime, Sasha, now, his career is nearly two decades old, but he's still one of the most popular names in dance music. Next month he'll be releasing the three-disc Structures album, but he's currently busy on a North American tour that lasts until this September.
We recently caught up with Digweed to see what restaurant he wishes he could take on the road with him, what's changed most about club culture, and what his favorite clubs are to play in the U.S.
Clubplanet: After hours of DJing, sometimes it may be best to get away from the studio monitors. Where does a world-renown DJ like to grab a drink on a night off?
John Digweed: To be honest a great way for me to relax is to go mountain-bike riding in the local woods. It really clears my head.
Clubplanet: You've always been an artist that's in high-demand, meaning the traveling can get pretty extensive. If there was one restaurant you could take with you on the road, which would that be?
John Digweed: I love sushi, so a Nobu bento box would be great every day.
Clubplanet: We're sure you've seen the rise and fall of many trends in the club. What aspect in club culture do you think has changed the most since the start of your career?
John Digweed: The sound systems, lights, and visual aspect of clubs have improved loads over the years. But the thing that make a great club are a friendly staff and a great crowd. Without these it will never last.
Clubplanet: You've played some of the biggest clubs in the world. If there's one venue that just feels like home every time you play it, where is it and why?
John Digweed: Twilo was always amazing. Nowadays, Fabric in London, Avalon LA, and The Vagabond in Miami all attract a proper party crowd who come to dance.
Clubplanet: You had a big hand in the development of The Vagabond in Miami, one of the city's most beloved nightlife venues. When it comes to that particular venue, what aspect of your personality is represented well there?
John Digweed: The reason The Vagabond is so successful is down to Carmel [Ophir], Rodney [Mayo], and all the staff 's hard work week in and week out. The club offers something different from the normal clubs that are out there and I wish that I lived a lot closer as the vibe in that venue is very special.