INTERVIEW: Denis First

Today on Miami Encode we have the pleasure of welcoming Denis First to our artist interview series, lets find out more about him, his music and what makes him move!

Q: Where do we find you now?

A: I’m in my hometown, loaded with work but still enjoying the summer!

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your new record and how it came together?

A: It’s been a couple of years now that I’ve been in touch with my Brazilian friends with whom we work on some music together. They sent me this demo called ‘Dangerous’ and I knew at once I could make something cool with it!

Q: Can you describe a moment or experience that initially sparked your passion for music and how it continues to inspire you today?

A: It all started when I was a kid, I always felt like music is an integral part of my life. And now the music helps me to distract from everyday routine, my work and my problems.

Q: Are there any lesser-known electronic music artists you feel deserve more attention, and why do their work resonate with you?

A: There’s so many of them, listen to my music label First Forged releases and find out for yourself!

Q: How do you maintain a balance between staying true to your artistic vision and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the music industry?

A: Well, there might be some slight style changes in my music from time to time that are not only brought by the changes in the overall industry but maybe by the changes in my tastes and personality throughout the years – but if you listen to my older works I think you’ll see that there’s this signature sound of Denis First which is found in every piece of music I produce.

Q: What role does improvisation play in your creative process, and can you share a memorable instance when it led to an unexpected breakthrough?

A: Well, I think improvisation is a part of every musician’s life. I don’t really spend years working on one single piece of music – I just find a good vocal, immediately hear it in my head how it can sound with a tune and start working on it right off the way!

Q: Are there any non-musical influences, such as visual art, literature, or personal experiences, that have significantly shaped your work?

A: My wife Maria and my daughter Eve are my main inspiration source. Whenever it’s a song about happy love, you can tell it’s about love for my family.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring electronic music artists looking to develop their own unique sound and style?

A: It may sound cliche, but all I can say is: follow your heart, work hard and love what you do!

Q: What’s a project or collaboration that you’re particularly proud of, and what did you learn from the experience?

A: I’ve worked with so many talented artists of different level, but I’m going to name one project of 2018 – back then, we signed off a label deal with Island Records with a British Duo Bright Sparks – ending the song to be the most aired song of 2019 in Russia which is a great result.

One thing I’ve learnt throughout the year: there’s no real boundaries except for these in your head. You gotta try again and again to achieve anything, things don’t come to these who just wait.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired during periods of creative block, and what strategies do you employ to overcome them?

A: I’m quite often full of energy haha! But here’s a few things that keeps me feel alive: being with my family, doing some sports or going for a walk in the forest!

Q: What’s next for you?

A: Releasing music, doing some work, shooting some music videos, also we are planning to launch an NFT collection soon, AI universe is cool to explore! Follow me on social media to stay tuned!

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