You’re set to play at Stealth, this month. Will this be your first time in Notts?
It won’t be my first time in Notts, but it will be my first time playing here. I’m pretty excited - I’ve heard some good things about Stealth. I hope you guys are ready for a party!
Your Facebook Bio says that you’re Bristol born, but describes Ibiza as your ‘seasonal home’. Is Ibiza where you fell in love with house music?
Putting it bluntly, no. I fell in love with house at a pretty young age - I was about ten or eleven, and started playing at thirteen. I went to Ibiza for the first time at sixteen when Sam Divine asked me to play for her. I fell in love with the place from then and I’ve not missed a season. I was lucky enough to have a residency out there for a few years, but I’ve had to knuckle down on productions so it’s just flying over for gigs now. And the odd cheeky holiday.
You’ve been touring Australia, and you’re heading over to America. How was Oz? Where are you going in America? Is house as big over there as it is over here?
Australia was unreal. It’s the second time I’ve been over there and I was lucky enough to be on the Dirtybird tour with my good mate, Kill Frenzy. The thing I like about Australia is that the whole house scene is one big family. Everyone knows everyone and they’re so friendly.
America is going to be a crazy tour. We’ll be going to every major city, Atlanta, Washington, NYC, Miami, Boston, and the list goes on. I think there are some dates in South America and Canada too. Not forgetting the Dirtybird Campout that will be crazy. I’ve spent a lot of time in America and the scene is really cool. I think when you filter through the EDM there are some sweet parties. I do feel the bass/house sound is getting bigger over there as well, as it doesn't take itself too seriously and can appeal to the younger generation.
Do crowds tend to look and feel very similar from up on the decks, or do you get a different vibe from each city you visit?
It changes everywhere you go - thank God. I think it would be boring if it was the same type of crowd everywhere you went. Some crowds are easier to play to than others, some like it darker some like it deeper. It’s fun because it means you can change things up.
Do you enjoy travelling, or are you more of a home bird?
I love travelling and I’m lucky to be able to do it while playing the music that I love. Let’s have it right - I’m one lucky f****r!
You’ve been played by Annie Mac on her Friday night Radio 1 show. That must have felt like a big career goal tick, right?
Totally. I’ve been so lucky to have support from Annie, she’s played quite a lot of my original work and remixes.
How was it working with the famous Claude VonStroke?
What do you think? He’s a legend, such a nice down to earth guy. I remember skyping him for the first time and it was like just chatting with one of my mates who I’ve known for years. It’s a great family to be part of and I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the guys at the campout.
You have your own label and club night/brand ‘Cut A Rug’. Any chance you might host a night in Nottingham?
Cut A Rug was an idea myself and my mate Jason came up with a couple of years back. If I’m honest, it’s nothing serious at all - we do it as and when we want, and this year we haven’t done anything. Our motto is, ‘If we do it, we’ve gotta do it proper’ (you have to say that in a Bristolian accent). Between us, we haven’t had time to do anything proper so we’re gonna leave it. I would like to do a series of free parties next year so who knows, we may end up in Notts…
Give us your top tips for any aspiring DJ’s/Producers out there…
Don’t copy. Work hard. When you’re in the studio, if you’re not enjoying it either start something new or leave it for a day. Don’t give up.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Thanks for having me! Plus, anyone that turns up in a spandex suit on Saturday night, I’ll be getting the drinks in.
Will Clarke will be playing Stealth on Saturday 12 September 2015.
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