In an exclusive tête-à-tête, we caught up with the sensational DJ Akarsh, whose electrifying beats have been taking the Southeast US by storm. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Delhi, India, Akarsh's musical journey has transcended borders, captivating audiences with his passion for music.
1. Could you tell us about your journey as a DJ, from your roots in Delhi to your current base in Atlanta? How did you get into the house and techno music?
Upon my initial relocation from India to Atlanta, I experienced a distinct absence of community and belonging. Raised in the outskirts of Delhi, the Individuality of the day-to-day lifestyle of people here struck me as opposed to my roots until when I first got involved in the underground music scene here, from the very outset of it I had realised that there was no looking back.
2. What was your first gig?
I landed my first gig at The Music Room in Atlanta and since that helped me establish myself as a mainstay in Atlanta's vibrant scene in a relatively short period of time whether it be making people move to his delectable dance floor selections at some of Atlanta’s top venues and most sought-after parties or organizing unique community focussed party concepts under my desires to imprint with some of the most forward-thinking and cutting-edge artists from around the world.
3. Can you tell us about a few of your most memorable residencies?
Being involved with the dance music community here for almost 3 years, creating an immersive experience my audience has always been of utmost importance. Hence, holding residencies at several high-level productions and venues like The Music Room, Alley Cat Music, Desires, and Banshee have been some of the most memorable residences to name a few.
4. What sets your DJ sets apart from others in the house and techno scene? Do you have any signature elements or techniques that define your sound?
It's been an incredible journey so far; my roots have always been an integral part of who I am as a DJ. From the intricate rhythms of the tabla to the mesmerizing melodies of the sitar, Indian music became ingrained in my soul. When I ventured into the world of DJing, I knew I wanted to bring these elements into my sets and create a unique fusion of styles.
5. Atlanta is known for its diverse music scene. How has the city influenced your style and sound as a DJ? Are there any artists or venues that have had a significant impact on your career?
Atlanta has enhanced my ability to create an electrifying, high-energy dance-forward atmosphere and curate a vast range of musical selections to seamlessly blend across numerous genres of dance music. This advanced skillset gave me the opportunity to share the stage with some of the industry's most respected and revered figures, including Atish, Sonja Moonear, Traumer, Dyed Soundorom, Black Loops, Felipe Gordon, tINI, Themba, Be Svendsen, and many other notable artists.
House and techno music have a strong connection to the club culture. How do you adapt your DJing style to different environments, from intimate underground clubs to larger festival stages?
My strong technical and analytical background in software engineering has had a profound impact on my career it has helped me improve my music production capabilities and helped me connect with my audience in more meaningful ways. It's about creating a connection and delivering an unforgettable musical experience that resonates with the crowd, regardless of the setting. It has also earned me the chance to play at some of the East Coast’s top underground venues like TBA Brooklyn in New York & Rabbit Hole in New Orleans as well as gotten him more commercial opportunities like The Eastern in Atlanta and festival bookings at Deep Tropics in Nashville to name a few.
6. Are you currently involved in any community-focused events or initiatives?
I have always been passionate about giving back to the community and how it has influenced my career. Through organizing several charity-focused events for the larger Atlanta community in meaningful ways, such as hosting food drives for the homeless and distributing blankets and clothes during the winter season.
My true calling lies in my love for music. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant community built around house music. With a focus on groove-forward productions and a willingness to take risks.
7. Can you talk about any recent projects or collaborations you've been working on? Are there any upcoming releases or performances that your fans should look out for?
As a well-connected member of the Atlanta music scene and founder of Desires, I have ventured into music production for a noteworthy collaboration coming up including a release on Tito Mazzetta’s Mithra label.
8. Finally, what are your goals and aspirations as a DJ?
I aim to continually refine my skills and develop a unique sound that resonates with listeners while staying true to the essence of techno and house music. I envision collaborating with talented producers and artists within the techno and house music scene, working on original tracks and remixes that push boundaries and leave a lasting impact on listeners.