NIHIL YOUNG

Introduction 153

"With this set, I aim to showcase some of my recent and upcoming releases, as well as highlight music from exceptional producers that I am currently enjoying. While exploring different genres, my intention remains focused on maintaining a groove that is inherent to all my mixes. My ultimate goal is to evoke positive feelings and emotions, while ensuring that the sounds I love keep your head bumping along."

DIT KLINGT JUT · Introduction 152 | Nihil Young

Hey Mattia, welcome to the DKJ Introduction series! To start off, can you tell us a little about how your journey of becoming an electronic music artist started?

"I began mixing cassettes as a child and started experimenting with turntables, mixing, and scratching when I was around 14 years old. I was captivated by classic hip-hop records and had a strong desire to recreate the cutting and scratching sounds. To pursue my passion, I saved up money and bought myself a set of turntables and a budget mixer. I dedicated myself to practice and participated in local and national DJ competitions.

Eventually, my musical interests shifted towards electronic sounds when I rediscovered classic house music, electro, trance, and drum and bass. However, it wasn't until I stumbled upon artists like Royksopp, Trentemoller, Stephan Bodzin - who completely blew my mind at the time - that I felt compelled to venture into electronic music production.

Consequently, I delved into production and founded my label, Frequenza, in 2009. Learning how to produce and manage a label simultaneously posed a significant challenge, but fueled by my youth and eagerness to learn, I managed to create something I am proud of. At that time, I was approximately 21 years old."

   How do you get into a creative flow?

"Typically, I set my mind to create a certain number of tracks or songs, which I list in my to-do list. Anything I jot down in my notebook becomes an absolute must-do for me, and I strive to accomplish it as soon as possible. I no longer have the time or inclination to tolerate creative blocks in my life. In the past, I grappled with them while battling depression."

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

"Meditation, immersing myself in nature, listening to music, reading, watching films, and playing are all sources of inspiration for me."

What do you love most about being an artist?

"Freedom, being my own boss, fostering creativity, engaging in experimentation, and experiencing moments of magic and synchronicity are all aspects of my journey that inspire me. Additionally, I have come to appreciate the less positive aspects such as confronting my own blockages, persevering through challenges for success, and learning valuable lessons from failures. These experiences have taught me to embrace them and grow."

How do you stay focused in a world of constant distraction?

"Staying focused in a world of constant distractions can be challenging, but here are a few strategies I use to maintain focus and creativity.

Firstly, managing my time efficiently is crucial. As a label owner who handles various aspects such as being an A&R, publisher, creating artwork, and managing social media, it's essential to prioritize tasks and allocate specific time slots for each. This helps prevent feeling overwhelmed by having a clear plan in place.
Secondly, I find that keeping a notebook handy is immensely helpful. Whenever distractions arise or new ideas pop into my mind, I jot them down in my notebook. This allows me to address them later and maintain my focus on the current task at hand.
Furthermore, when faced with deadlines, I adopt a determined mindset. Regardless of the circumstances, I make it a point to deliver what is expected. Surprisingly, the pressure of impending deadlines often sparks last-minute inspiration and enhances my abilities.

One of the most valuable tips I can offer is to disconnect from distractions, particularly during production sessions. Turning off or temporarily setting aside my phone helps me minimize interruptions and maintain a flow state. By implementing these strategies, I strive to stay focused and maintain my creativity amidst the constant distractions of the world."

What, for you, is the purpose of art?

"Art is creation, and as human beings, it is ingrained in our nature to create. It aligns with the essence of our existence and what God wants us to do.

Art also serves as a means of connecting with others. It has the ability to bridge gaps, foster empathy, and create shared experiences. Through art, we can communicate, express ourselves, and establish connections that transcend language and cultural barriers.
Furthermore, art has the power to inspire and provoke thoughts and emotions. It can challenge our perceptions, stimulate reflection, and ignite intellectual and emotional responses. Art has the potential to spark conversations, encourage critical thinking, and promote personal and societal growth.
Ideally, Art's ultimate aim is to contribute to the betterment of our world."

Most profound insight you had since you started this career?

"The importance of learning to trust people while prioritizing self-trust. It is crucial to establish trust in others, but it is equally essential to trust yourself and your own instincts. By striking a balance between trusting others and maintaining confidence in your own abilities, you can navigate your career with greater clarity and resilience.

Another key insight is the significance of letting go of unnecessary worry. Excessive worry can hinder progress and cloud judgment. Embracing a more mindful and proactive mindset, focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, can lead to greater productivity and a sense of calm in the face of challenges.

Finally, recognizing your own worth is paramount. Understanding and valuing your unique skills, experiences, and contributions empowers you to seek opportunities that align with your capabilities and aspirations. Embracing self-worth allows for more fulfilling and purpose-driven career choices."