Resat Bauer, better known to the music world as DJ R., is an electronic music producer, DJ, and composer from Munich, Germany. Back in the 1990s, Bauer became heavily inspired by the music and culture that was dominating the charts. He took that inspiration and combined electronic music with hip-hop, R&B, and many other genres. He started spinning tracks at the age of 15 and has manifested his talents into signing with some of the industry’s most sought-after labels. Aside from DJing, producing, and composing, DJ R. owns and operates his label, The R. Entertainment.
DJ R., you got your start in R&B and hip-hop. When did it dawn on you to get into electronic music?
The electronic side of music was always present. The first popular electronic elements came from the break dance era. At the beginning of the 2000s, I dealt with it more intensively.
You have releases on Universal Music Group, Ultra Music, and Sony Music. Explain to us how those deals came about.
Over networking I found out which A&R representatives work at the major labels I wanted to sign and sent them a demo. After a short while, they got back to me and said they were interested in working with me.
Aside from DJing and writing music, what’re some of your hobbies?
I love things with creativity, like graphic design and spending time in nature.
What is an upcoming technology (gear, software, etc) or perk in the music industry that you find interesting?
There is so much technology out there that one hardly has an overview over it. I prefer the easier technology. I’ve worked with Apple’s Logic Pro as my main DAW for over 22 years. I also use plugin-ins from Native Instruments & Reason.
What’s a genre that you believe doesn’t get enough attention?
It’s not the genre. I think the artists who sit in their small rooms and compose real music from the heart don’t get enough attention and respect from the industry. The music has been lost. Today music has lost its sense of art; it’s just a product. Artists just have to be good looking and have a good voice, and the fame will just happen. Networking with other artists and creating new sounds in a group is absolutely great, and I welcome that. But that’s a regular. Listen to the pop music of today. It mostly sounds the same because everybody wants to be famous like the superstars. There is no more new or unique.
Who’re some of your favorite musical inspirations at the moment?
Hans Zimmer, Ed Sheeran, Major Lazer, BJ The Chicago Kid, Sam Smith, Jack Johnson, Purple Disco Machine, A Tribe Called Quest, OneRepublic & many more.
What’s your favorite track that you’ve ever written? Why is it your favorite track?
My favorite written track will be released soon. It’s a mix of classic instruments like piano and electronic sounds with a great voice.
Every genre has formed and evolved from some culture. What’re a few unique cultural elements that you like to implement in your music?
I’m open minded for all cultural elements. There are no special ones.
How can an artist make their music stand out from the rest of the musicians, DJs, producers? Is there a card you can play that heightens your chances of getting signed on a major record label?
No, there is no card. All I can say is be yourself. Make music from your heart. The most important thing is that you love your own music. The rest comes by itself.
What’s a piece of advice you would give to someone who’s interested in becoming a DJ or getting involved within the music industry?
Do it with love and passion. Believe in yourself. You’re free and can do whatever you want. To be signed to major label is not the most important part. There are so many ways to release your music. Never give up.
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SoundCloud | Spotify | Twitter | Instagram | Website
