More recently though, Australia’s favourite son has begun to spend more and more time in LA; it’s close to everywhere else – and it’s where magic happens, after all. And with that, the carefree kid is enjoying the freedom that music has afforded him. “I’m not about over-thinking things; when you travel to different destinations, you enjoy the diversity of crowds,” he says. “Playing a gig in the States is one thing but when you’re at a big festival with 10,000 people in Poland you might not play as many songs with lyrics,” he explains – with a chuckle. “For me there are no rules and that’s why way I like it.”
Likewise, his time in the studio has culminated in the release of an EP this past January called When I Go. “I felt like that whole EP was pretty diverse,” he explains. “There is a chill out track, something a little more experimental as well; musically, it’s the way I’m heading and I’m really enjoying it.” No less, having the chance to present his wares as far afield as Helsinki – and as close to home as Sydney – can’t hurt either. Yet not to be outdone, he has also finished another EP titled Nothing Really Matters featuring the soulful voice of Melanie Fontana.
Otherwise, keeping him busy has been his new publishing deal with Universal. “That happened about ten months ago,” explains a proud tyDi. “It has been pretty exciting for sure. I’ve had the chance to work with some amazing artists as well as getting the opportunity to write for them. They’ve given me a lot of freedom there so it is really great. There are also a few exciting things happening which I can’t give away just yet, but I would say stay tuned!”
Musically, he admits that there is a difference in his sound now versus what people have heard from him before. For a start, he is writing and playing a lot more of his own music. “I don’t tend to feel I have to play the hits and the songs that everybody knows me for anymore,” he admits with relief. “It is a great opportunity for me to show people that things can be a bit different. I want my gigs to be a showcase for my music and I want to keep pushing the boundaries.”
He also reminisces for a moment, suggesting that electronic music was always about a DJ having a strong style. “I’ve always made music for people to connect with; songs with more than just a piano or guitar,” he says. “What I’m doing now might lean a little bit towards the pop world, but my music is changing because my tastes are changing. I’m working with people that write for big names like Rihanna so I’ve been doing some crazy things in LA. I’ve been able to produce songs that tap into a new market as well; I’m enjoying writing music and enjoying it rather than over thinking it. I really has been an amazing experience,” he admits.
With all things said and done, Tyson Illingworth stands ready to defend his various accolades. He has already been named the country’s number one DJ. Moreover, fans worldwide revere him for his forward thinking approach to music, and likewise, he long ago raised the eyebrows of greats like Armin Van Buuren who have taken him under their wing as he has blazed a path of glory. And while he admits that all of that is really important for him, it is his love of writing music that is his ultimate motivation.
“I always think about how it’s going to sound when I play it. It’s all about that energy and vibe for me,” he says. Finally, having almost conquered all in his short but illustrious career, tyDi is pumped about pretty much everything that is on his horizon. As always, keeping his adoring fans happy is at the top of his list and with a record box full of new and exciting treats, punters are assured of a good time. “I’m about giving the crowd what they want and always building the excitement!”
BY RK
