ZEHV is a talented DJ and music producer with a lot of experience behind the mixing decks. His signature Progressive sound is definitely one not to miss as his incredible productions have already made a name for themselves, taking him far, performing at main venues like Bogart House and Avant Gardner in New York City and Halcyon and The Great Northern in San Francisco, to name a few.
His productions have found the support of top acts like Fehrplay, Guy J and Cristoph, while reaching the top spots on important charts like the Beatport Top 10, showing ZEHV’s talent is unparalleled, and his aim is high and clear.
We invited ZEHV to walk us through his experiences getting ready for live performances, what makes for a great live show and which city or country is next on his bucket list.
Hello ZEHV, how are you?
I’m doing great, thank you!
How do you prepare for a show?
Usually have a coffee before every show like I’m starting my day and going to work, helps me get into the mindset I need to be in.
How would you describe a perfect setting for a live performance?
I think a perfect setting for me is, a full dance floor of people that are there to enjoy the music and a really good sound system. I don’t think there Is a specific location, just a good party vibe and quality sound.
What do you look for in a track for a live show?
It totally depends on the type of party, location, vibe, other artists playing, etc. There are a lot of factors that go into how I prepare for each show. Some are more hard and driving, others are more chill and melodic.
How do you read an audience and how did you learn to do it?
It just takes experience. For me, I tend to get to shows early so I can feel out what the dance floor is like, and the energy of the room. It helps put my head into the right place and as I play, I get a sense for whether the crowd is enjoying your music or not based on that.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your time performing live?
I’ve gained a lot of confidence from performing live. Every action you make on stage has to be done with purpose and confidence. You have to trust yourself!
What’s the funniest story you have involving a live show?
I was playing a show in Brooklyn and an overexcited person on the dancefloor was standing in front of me, excitedly exclaiming after pretty much everything that happened. A breakdown happens, he yelps. The tension builds, he was yelling waiting for the drop. Drop happens, he goes crazy. I was loving it and it made for some good videos later.
Which new skills or gear would you like to incorporate in the near future?
My guitar! I’m working towards more live performance.
Where would you like to perform in the future?
Argentina and Sri Lanka would be awesome!
What piece of advice would you give to a DJ that’s starting their live performance journey?
Be humble and open to advice and feedback from everywhere. Artists, fans, strangers. Take it all in and then figure out if it is going to help you develop as an artist or not.
ZEHV Online:
https://www.beatport.com/artist/zehv/668769
https://www.instagram.com/zehv_music
