Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Silvio Carrano

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Silvio Carrano

A few weeks ago I read a press release about a new single titled “How I Feel.” The song is by Silvio Carrano, and at the time, I had no idea who he was. I listened to the song, did a little research, and fell in love with his sound. I enjoyed his sound so much I introduced myself to him on Facebook. We connected, became quick friends, and I asked for an interview. He was happy to do so, and I got the chance to spend some time with him learning more about his sound, his passion for dance music, and more about his new single “How I Feel.” It was an honor getting to know him, and it’s pleasure to introduce you to him here today. Cheers!

Silvio Carrano Interview Questions

You just released “How I Feel.” Tell me more about the single.
It was not so easy to realize a follow up of “Make Me Feel,” released last December, that had an unexpected success for a club track.

“How I Feel” was composed in just a few hours. I was inspired by the scent of the sea that I breathe in during the entire year because I live in southern Italy by the coast; one of the most beautiful places in the world. During the spring/summer, millions of people come here on holiday. My idea was to create something that could enter in their hearts so that maybe they can take home a piece of our Mediterranean warmth.

This single was released on Zulu Records. Tell me what it has been like working with them. They have a pretty impressive track record!
Zulu Records and My Digital Enemy have always found a place in my DJ bag; I really love their sound! When my manager told me that they were interested in signing something from me I was so happy. They are really reliable, credible and much followed by the house lovers, this helped me to increase my visibility. I wanna say thank you to the label for this opportunity and also to all the people all over the world that have supported my music.

I’ve only been to Italy once, but we didn’t see any shows. What are some of your favorite venues in The Boot?
I hope that you’ll come back soon; you’ll be my guest. I can’t wait to show you my region “Apulia!!!” This is the heart of Italian club scene. For 4 years I have been resident DJ at the POP FEST “People on Pleasure,” a festival that gave me the possibility to share the stage with Hardwell, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Martin Garrix, Nicky Romero, Steve Aoki and many more… This is my place!!!

I love Italian food. What are some of your favorite Italian restaurants in the United States?
Sorry, but I’ve never been to the USA. I hope to come there soon though… Maybe for a gig?!

Who are some of your biggest influences?
I’m influenced by emotions. I choose what I listen to and what I play by my feelings, no prejudices of style and BPM. I love Roger Sanchez, Axwell and Markus Schulz; 3 different styles but 3 giants in their job. When I started my career I used to play a lot of “Italo dance,” tracks by Eiffel65 and Gigi D’Agostino that have inspired so many producers for more than twenty years.

Tell me more about your podcast.
It is called “Total Freedom,” and that says everything!!!

It was started in January 2014 as a monthly studio mix, recording live a one hour set music. Due to its big success on the web, in January 2015 it became a weekly radio show, broadcasted all over the world and last month it even reached the No. 1 spot of the most listened to podcasts on iTunes Italy. Every week I choose 14/15 tracks, many times playing future hits months before the mainstream radios. A journey from house to electro and progressive sounds.

A lot of big names have played “How I Feel.” What does this support mean to you and who else would you like to hear supporting your track?
If a big name plays your track it means that you’ve produced solid, quality music. That’s not so easy to do, the level of successful tracks is really high.

A dream would be to see one of my tracks on Pete Tong’s playlist.

You’ve worked with a lot of different labels. Why do artists work with so many different labels?
Labels are like girls… You try as many stories as you can until you find the right one with whom you have an “artistic wedding.”

There are so many different genres of electronic dance music. How would you classify yourself?
I hate classifying music; the quality of emotions does not belong to BPM or instruments. I love rock songs as well as trance tracks. I’m a big room guy but I always try to put in a taste of musical culture and personal edits of the tracks that I play.

There are a lot of guys to choose from… Who are some of your favorite DJs?
As I told you before, Roger Sanchez and Axwell have really shocked me when I saw them spin live. Markus is an icon; a great example of real DJ. He travels around the world everyday and does open to close solo sets, without playing pre-recorded sequences. A particular mention also goes out to Joseph Capriati, from southern Italy like me, I’m sure he will become one of the top stars on the worldwide techno scene. Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox are always inspiring…

You have over 1,000 live performances under your belt. What are some of your favorite shows over the years?
November 6, 1996… I will never forget my debut show. I was only 13 years old. I went to the club accompanied by my father, and I had my vinyl in the school backpack. The other 999 shows have been important to make me become what I am today. I have had exciting nights, big successes and also so many delusions. I’ve never quit and I’m still here, speaking with you on the other side of the world.

Tell me more about Total Freedom Recordings.
That is my label, the home of many talented guys that want to grow up under an expert guide. I’m happy to be the mentor of young producers that want to dedicate their entire life to music, like me. It’s really stimulating to share the passion and work together. Our tracks have been played by Don Diablo, Blasterjaxx, Sick Individuals, Gregor Salto to name just a few. I think we’re on the right track…

What headphones do you use?
Sony MDR-V150… $30, but I can’t live without them!!!

What’s next for Silvio Carrano?
I have a new upcoming release titled “We Are Free,” a true freedom chant produced with my friend Davide Svezza. The lyrics have been written by Ké (Kevin Grivois), really famous for his hit “Strange World.” It was an honor for me work to with him. The package includes remixes by StoneBridge, one of the godfathers of house music, and Leandro Da Silva, an Italian key radio presenter. Vocals are by Rodge from the Netherlands. A project that has united people from around the world.

My summer calendar for shows in the clubs is really hot. I can’t wait to see what will happen!!!

In all of the interviews I do, I give the artist the last word. Go.
Thank you, Ricky, for the opportunity to speak about my passion on your blog.

Guys, if you’ve read this far I thank you and I hope to meet you soon in the clubs to party together!!!

Connect with Silvio Carrano:
Website: http://www.silviocarrano.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silviocarrano/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SilvioCarrano
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SilvioCarrano