midnightcity mix 003: BLZBO
photo: Timothy Nguyen
midnightcity is proud to present the Artist Mix Series—a curated space for forward-thinking sounds and emerging artists. For our third instalment, we linked up with our dear friend and Vancouver DJ/producer BLZBO. This exclusive mix is a sonic journey through the unexpected, sure to earn a spot in your winter rotation.
Q&A with BLZBO
Q: What inspired the vibe and ID selection for your midnightcity mix? I was in a really good mood when I was making this mix. Just wanted to bring that BLZBO energy, the chaos and clarity. I absolutely LIVE for the heavy drops but also LOVE the wubs.
Q: You’re unapologetically yourself and proudly wear your hispanic roots and LGBTQ background - are there any specific memories and emotions you were channeling in this mix? Yes I am truly proud of who I am and my heritage. I was happy, feeling good and I wanted to channel that into this mix.
Q: Can you share a bit about your creative process - how do you usually start a track? I always start with the drums to create the desired vibe. From there, I'll start with a build and intro. So I kind of work backwards MOST of the time. It really depends on the mood I am in. Sometimes I like to switch it up and write the intro first, or start writing the drop right away and build around it. I look at it like LEGO pieces. I like to experiment a lot.
Q: What’s something you’re currently experimenting with in your sound or production style? Vocals!!! Before, I didn't really experiment with them much, but having them really elevates your tracks. I love adding cool fills, little chants, and moans. All the ear candy. I'm always experimenting with them!
Q: What are you most excited about in the music world right now - either in your own work or the scene in general? Honestly I’m so so excited with how far my production has come and how it’s getting better and better. I get so stoked when I make something really cool I haven't done before. Dubstep has been getting booked in way bigger festivals/places you haven't really seen before. For example, the residency happening in Vegas (Subtronics, Ray Volpe, Excision) That really gives us more opportunity!! Its exciting for the rising artists.
Q: If you could soundtrack any film, TV show or video game, what would it be and why? So one of my FAVE video games is call of duty. Ive played all of them since 2009. It would be an HONOUR to do that. My childhood self would be so happy LOL
Q: What’s one non-musical thing that’s been inspiring you lately - books, food, places, anything? I recently started reading my old journal, looking back and reading some of the things I've been through has, for sure, sparked my creativity. I will add, I've been indulging in quite a few hot dogs LOL, those might help fuel me as well.
Q: Let us know what else you have coming up in the future and if there’s anything else you’d like to note! LOTS OF MUSIC!! Collabs, Remixes, Flips. Maybe some merch? who knows ;)
Follow BLZBO on Instagram, Apple Music, Soundcloud, Spotify + X.
