Paradiso 2014 headliner and bass music figurehead Bassnectar, also known as Lorin Ashton, has once again made his thoughts and feelings on the state of dance music (both the industry and culture) clear. In an interview with Katie Bain from Insomniac last week, he touched on the current state of EDM, DJ’s roles in dance music, the usage of drugs within the EDM scene, and more. Bassnectar has been in the news quite a bit this summer, with releasing a new album, headlining massive festivals and shows, and doing several interviews.
When it comes to bass music’s role in EDM, Ashton is more than happy for it to remain less mainstream than other genres, such as house and trance.
At this point I think the dust has settled, and we’re back into where I think of EDM as basically house and trance. To me, it’s really that mainstream sound with the cheesy, schmaltzy guy who sings some barbaric pop lyrics at the chorus; and I feel grateful that that’s what’s blowing up, because it allows bass music to creep off into the side stages when necessary.
Speaking on the usage of drugs within the dance music scene, Bassnectar used himself and his past to explain his feelings on the matter.
I personally started experimenting with psychedelics when I was about 19, and at first, it changed my life in this beautiful way—like unlocking a door. So I stepped through the door and very quickly, within a few years, stopped using drugs to go through the door, because I realized I could go through the door on my own… I’d go 10 hours a night dancing and going to raves at the beaches and have just as much fun without getting high, more so because I could really participate in each experience, and I could remember my experiences and process on a deeper level.
Despite his status and recognition within bass music, Ashton makes it clear that Bassnectar isn’t bigger than the music he makes.
I’m not trying to lead a movement. I am just trying to inspire and promote health and happiness.
Make sure you check out the entire interview here and let us know what you think of Bassnectar’s thoughts on EDM. Comment below on Facebook, or reply on Twitter!
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