DJ fell in love with dance music in Spain
One of music’s most prominent DJs, Tiesto has earned his nickname as the Godfather of EDM. The Dutch DJ, born Tijs Michiel Verwest, was performing in European stadiums long before it became cool to be a fan of hipsters such as Calvin Harris and Martin Garrix. Of his many concerts, Tiesto, 49, says performing at the 2004 Olympics in Athens was a highlight. “I loved it. It was such an unreal experience playing in front of the entire world. It was especially big for me when you consider that dance music wasn’t as big as it is nowadays.”
His latest song is “Jackie Chan,” which he collaborated on with Dzeko, Post Malone and Preme.
An edited version of our conversation follows. everything whenever I am traveling, so I do spend a lot of time in a city between gigs. Within an average week, I am basically playing three nights and then I have four nights off to sightsee and experience local culture.
A: I wasn’t able to go on a vacation until I went on a holiday when I was 19, and that was when I went to Mallorca in Spain. I fell in love with dance music right there for the first time when I heard tracks like “Pump Up the Jam” and Lil Louis’ “French Kiss.” It was a mind-blowing holiday that shaped not only my professional career, but the rest of my life! course, unexpectedly catch sets of some up and comers.
A: Coachella! They’ve got everything — all genres and artists both big and small.
A: I love the Post Ranch Resort in Big Sur, California. I love to spend time in Vancouver, Canada, where they have some of the best sushi in the world. I also love Cabo down in Mexico.
A: I often go to Vail in Colorado, which I love a lot. Of course, New York is always amazing during Christmas!