Carl Cox: The Independent Interview

Carl Cox, the legendary British DJ, and producer, recently shared his insights on the changing face of Ibiza, the impact of social media, and the evolution of techno-music culture in an enlightening interview with The Independent.

With a career spanning four decades, Carl Cox has been instrumental in shaping the electronic music scene. His residencies at iconic venues like Space Ibiza and appearances at major festivals such as Ultra Music and Awakenings have cemented his status as a techno titan.

Ibiza’s Transformation

Carl Cox expressed his concerns about Ibiza’s transformation since the closure of Space, a club that symbolized the island’s seasonal awakening. He noted a stark contrast in the atmosphere, describing empty venues where vibrant crowds once gathered.

“The island has never been the same since Space closed.“

Carl Cox remarked, highlighting the loss of the club’s crescendo effect on the island’s energy.

Commercialization and Its Effects

When asked about the role of commercialization, Carl Cox acknowledged its significant impact. He pointed out the skyrocketing prices of accommodations, drinks, and club entry fees, which have made Ibiza less attractive to visitors. This shift has led many to seek alternative destinations like Croatia for their electronic music fix.

Social Media’s Influence

Carl Cox offered a poignant perspective on how social media has altered the Ibiza experience:

“In the past, you’d leave your phone at home and have the time of your life. Now, it’s all about name-dropping, selfies, and boomerang shots. As soon as you start playing, all you see are phones going up instead of people dancing.“

This observation underscores the changing dynamics of live music experiences in the digital age.

The Changing Landscape For Emerging Artists

For up-and-coming artists, Carl Cox believes the current landscape poses significant challenges. He emphasized the need for new talents to make bold decisions and carve out their unique paths, particularly in the techno genre, which has gained considerable traction in recent years.

Techno’s Rise to Prominence

Carl Cox attributes techno’s surge in popularity partly to the oversaturation of EDM. He views techno as a more immersive and versatile genre, capable of thriving in intimate club settings and massive festivals alike.

“Techno is like a traveler, taking listeners and artists on a fascinating journey, people don’t need anything fancy; the music itself is enough.“

He cited the success of events like Junction 2 in London, where he performed back-to-back with Adam Beyer for a crowd of 15,000 techno enthusiasts, as evidence of the genre’s growing appeal.

Embracing Change and Supporting New Talent

Despite the challenges, Carl Cox remains optimistic about the future of electronic music. He expressed pride in the genre’s evolution and its ability to attract innovative artists like Amelie Lens, Charlotte de Witte, and Dax J.

“I’m thrilled to see new artists adding fresh identities to the scene, it’s incredible to witness young talents bringing ingenious ideas and pushing the movement to new heights.“

Returning to His Roots

As the interview concluded, Carl Cox discussed his upcoming performance at the 51st State Festival, where he planned to showcase his house music roots. This decision highlights his versatility as an artist and his commitment to honoring the full spectrum of electronic music.

“I came from house music, and it’s exactly where I want to be, I have a wealth of house tracks, and I can’t wait to play some of those old records. I just hope the crowd appreciates the music that shaped my journey.“

Carl Cox‘s reflections offer valuable insights into the ever-changing world of electronic music, reminding us of the genre’s rich history while looking ahead to its exciting future.