RB Exclusive Interview: Shiba San is Spending NYE in Phoenix!

In the last two years since Paris-based DJ Shiba San burst onto the scene, he’s been making a name for himself and building a huge following. He says he’s been DJing for over ten years now, but he became somewhat of an overnight sensation with his breakout hit “OKAY.” The track hit #1 on the Beatport charts before it was even officially released on the Dirtybird label–a label that has helped contribute to his massive success. The track is still making it’s way into sets all the time. Listen below.

He comes from a hip hop past that contributes to his unique sound, something commonly referred to as “ghetto funk”. He’s a two-time winner of the “Best Underground Dance Track” award at Miami’s Winter Music Conference, always finding himself at the top of the underground charts despite becoming a well-known name. Shiba San most recently released Got Drunk, a four track EP, in May under the Suara label. It consists of two originals and two remixes that are sure to be hits.

We had a chance to interview Shiba San to talk about his US success, Dirtybird experience, and New Years Past’s. Check it out!

You’ve been DJing for over ten years now internationally, but your introduction to the states is more recent. How has the US scene compared to your experiences over seas?

I feel that the scene grew up during the last few years in the US. There is so many big festivals. But it’s a bit difficult for me to compare with Europe since I used to play in the Hip Hope scene. I was not very familiar with festivals. It’s a complete different world.

 How has your background in hip-hop influenced your sound? Where else do you draw influence?

I’m not sure Hip Hop influenced me more than any other genre of music. I obviously used a few samples from hip hop but many other producers in all electronic genres are doing so. I actually take my inspiration in all the music I listen to or that I used to listen to back in my Hip Hop days when I was looking for samples. It goes from Jazz to Classical, Soul, Funk, Polka, etc…

You’ve become a regular on Dirtybird lineups. How has it been working with Claude VonStroke and the entire label?

Dirtybird is more than a label, it’s a family. When we play a Dirtybird event we can spend the day together playing music, listening to music, it’s like nothing else.

Your fan base continues to grow; how do you stay true to your underground sound while heading into mainstream popularity?

I don’t think I have a mainstream popularity. OKAY has been played by a lot of different dj’s, in different styles, but I want my sound to stay underground as I like it. I’m very happy to see my fanbase growing although I keep playing my music and in my own style. I’m posting my sets on Soundcloud – people know me now – and it’s even more rewarding because it proves they areappreciating me for that particular sound.

“OKAY” was obviously a huge hit. How has that success changed things for you?

It changed everything. Okay made me grow very fast. Within 1 year I got to play the best festivals and the best clubs all around the world. It usually takes a lot of time for an artist to do that.

Your Got Drunk EP dropped earlier this year in the midst of a busy touring schedule. It’s clear that it’s been a big year for you! What is the future looking like?

I had to change a bit my life style. I’m now working from 2 different studios across the world (France and USA), which allows me to work more than last year on my own music. I have a few tracks ready that I sent to labels, so new tracks and remixes are coming soon.

We are so excited to have you here for Decadence to bring some funky vibes! How have you spent New Years Eve in the past?

I played NYE 2014 In New York, 2015 in LA, and 2016 In AZ 🙂 I guess my New Years Eves are American now.

I hear nothing but good things about your live sets. What can fans expect from you on New Years Eve?

I always try to do my best, even if I’m tired or sick or anything. I’m here for my fans and give 200%. I think for New Years Eve I will give 300% 🙂

What will you be doing this year when the clock hits 12? In an ideal world what would you be doing when midnight strikes?

The DJ life is special. I think the best thing is to be and celebrate it with your family. So this year my fans will be my family. I don’t know my set time yet but in the past 2 years I was on Stage at 12; it was amazing.

Final words from Shiba San?

I just want to thank my fans, people who listen and love my music. It’s my passion, my life, and sharing it with fans is the best thing in the world.

He’s currently on a jam-packed American tour which included stops at CRSSD Fest, Dirtybird Campout, and Freak Nite. Shiba San brings his bass heavy funk to Decadence on Saturday, December 31st. Get tickets here.

Connect with Shiba San: Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud