Worldwide famous DJ and music producer Tujamo talks to Soundarts.gr!
Starting at a young age his career in music, Matthias Richter, or widely known as Tujamo, was only 17 when he entered a music contest in Germany, his hometown, and won. The following years, he concentrated on making music adding his own twist, which made him an inspiration for many producers around the world because of his unique sound.
He has participated to the biggest and most famous venues and festivals around the globe, while his successful collaborations included artists like Danny Avila, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Jacob Plant, Laidback Luke, Martin Solveig, Pep & Rash, Showtek and Taio Cruz. He has also produced remixes for songs of David Guetta, Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Martin Solveig, Jack Ü that soon reached the top of the charts.
However, Tujamo has been releasing his own singles as well, with one of the most recent ‘One On One’, released on Universal Music, that gained him a nomination at the Los40 World Dance Music awards 2018. Also, two more singles followed this year, ‘Body Language’ with Miranda Glory and Haris, and ‘Funk You’ vs. La Fuente, two amazing party bangers which proved that Tujamo has still a lot more to offer.
So, if you want to learn more about the person that made it to the top of the EDM music scene in just few years, making his name known across the globe, read all about it in the interview that follows below.
I would like to start by asking you just a few questions about yourself. Your real name is Matthias Richter, but since 2006 you go by the name Tujamo. Why did you change your name and choose this moniker?
Well, my name is still Matthias Richter, haha. I created this moniker along with a friend back in the days. Tujamo was a duo back then, the name being a combination of our first and last names’ initials. When I wanted to continue using it later, my friend was fine with that.
How would you introduce yourself and your music to the Greek audience? Who is Tujamo and how you would describe your sound?
I would introduce myself as a guy who loves making feel good music. I love touring and performing, and hopefully that comes across in the energy of the tracks that I release. I am a German DJ/producer who has been into music forever. I would describe my music as the kind of tracks that could get you going for a night out, and sound great at a festival or on a main stage.
You started your career as a Dj from a young age entering a Dj contest, while in previous interview you had mentioned it was something unexpected, a surprise from your girlfriend, who took the initiative. In which ways you think this competition helped you in your early steps? Do you believe this kind of contests are important for young artists?
The competition propelled me to the audience that wanted my music. In that sense I think it’s a great way for young artists to be heard – but I do think there are loads of other ways to get music out there. Especially in the digital age of 2018!
Which people have been the main influencers for you, either artists or public figures? Was there or is still somebody you look up to and take examples?
Definitely Diplo and his whole style and music. He is a trendsetter in so many ways, that always inspires me. In addition, I also think Michael Jackson had a lot of influence on me. His sound to this day is still far superior to a lot of other productions out there. Knowing how music production was done back in the days, this seems unreal, but I guess the analog days did have their very special influence on music, something you can’t rebuild nowdays.
You have travelled the world, visiting different countries. Would you say there are some places/festivals you love the most and you always feel excited when you perform there? Also, are there places you haven’t been there yet, but they are on your list?
It was absolutely incredible being one of the first DJ’s to tour China. I have been back there and will continue to tour there. I think performing in a different culture like that is fascinating. Japan is always a super exciting place to be, too!
So, you have been in front of huge crowds, in different places and festivals, would you say the audience can be different somehow?
Absolutely. I think the audience can be different as the set goes on! Different festivals have different vibes, and sometimes the smaller audiences can have the biggest vibes!
Have you ever faced any difficult situation, or have you ever had any issues during your tours, or in general in your career, that maybe scared you?
A couple years back I suffered from problems with my ears, which was very bad. I wasn’t able to listen to loud music and it was studio time. It literally killed me in the inside. My doctors told me I wasn’t allowed to listen to loud music or I could loose my hearing. A nightmare for a music producer. But it all went well.
How much time does it take you to make new music? What is the longest you took and the shortest period?
It’s completely different for each track. Sometimes you can be with someone in the studio and be bouncing of them, others you might want to sit on a track for a while. It could be years or days!
You are currently busy touring in Europe, and among your stops is Athens where you will perform for the very first time. How do you feel about it and what should we expect that day?
A massive set followed by a massive party! Can’t wait to get stuck in. Hello Athens!!
Recently you released ‘Body Language’ with Miranda Glory and Haris, and ‘Funk You’ vs. La Fuente, two amazing party bangers. Would you like to say few words about them?
Body Language was a great track that could be interpreted in many ways. It was also the follow up single to One On One, which I released in 2017. A rather pop/dance direction I have been messing around with and which I really like. I loved the video for Body Language specifically, that told the tale of expressing yourself physically. Funk You was a less serious track, it’s supposed to tear down the roof with a great portion of funky!
Also, what are your plans for the near future? I know that most of your summer will be busy performing around the world, but have you had any thought for after?
To be honest no! It’s hard to find the time when you are non stop touring. When I get a holiday I tend to just relax and focus on that. We’ll see what the future holds!
What is your motto in life?
Do what you wanna do.
Closing this interview, would you like to share with us one of your secrets of success? What do you think is the key to an accomplished career?
Work hard, and listen to the people you trust around you.
Finally, I leave this question open if you would like to add something that we haven’t mentioned up until now.
Have a great summer everyone! Let’s make this one massive. Thanks for the interview!
Interview: Eleni Kefallinou
