Indian music emotional, melodic: DJ Darren Emerson (Interview)

UK-based DJ Darren Emerson, who recently performed in India, says he is fascinated by Indian music and that he has a special liking for Indian musical instruments.

"I have always been a fan of Indian music. I find it very emotional and melodic," Darren told IANS.

"I love the sound of several Indian instruments. I love the sound of the sitar. Indian strings are so cool and you've got to love the song 'Chana Chana Chan'," he said.

Emerson, who began his music career by mixing hip hop records at the age of 14, describes Indians as enthusiastic music lovers.

"India is always full of great, enthusiastic clubbers who are very loyal and like to have a good time. For that reason, India is always a special place to play," he added.

In terms of artists, he feels UK-based Talvin Singh is "an ace on the tabla" and describes late Pakistani Sufi singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan as "amazing".

Even though Darren is one of the most influential figures in dance music, with a 17-year career that has seen him work with everyone from Depeche Mode to Jamie Cullum, he says it's the "people and the music" he likes the most in his profession.

"The best thing about being a DJ is simply the music and the people. I love it and love everybody who listens to my music. I simply love playing tunes to make people dance," he said.

Best known for his ground-breaking work with electronic trio Underworld, he says that he always likes to make more music.

"All I do is focus on making music for the dance floor. I like to play or make a variety of groovy house and techno music. What we hear today and most of my work is an influence of my association with my old techno band Underworld, my solo work and previous work with my old label Underwater," he said.

Darren is a busy globe-trotting DJ and, therefore, misses spending time with his family.

"The only downside is sometimes when you are away for extensive periods... you miss your family, but the clubbers and promoters always make me so welcome. They're great," said the 42-year-old.

Having been in the music industry for nearly two decades, he is keen on working with aspiring artists through some kind of institution.

"Along with my Detone label, we are talking about a number of long-term plans to work with young people," said Darren, whose single "Born Slippy" was used as the soundtrack for Danny Boyle's film "Trainspotting".

Some of Darren's best albums include "Global Underground: Uruguay and Singapore", "Bouncer" and "Crashjack". His best singles are "Gracelands" and "Decisions".