Shogun’s list of accomplishments accrued over the near-decade he’s been at the forefront of the trance scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Getting his start in early 2010 with the release of landmark tracks like ‘Nadia’ and ‘Save Me’, Shogun was immediately picked up by trance music legend Armin van Buuren’s very own Armind label. Since then he’s seen nothing but success, entering DJ Mag’s Top 100 on four separate occasions and becoming the first Asian American to sign with the internationally renowned Armada Record Label.
With releases that never fail to enter Beatport’s Top 10 Originals, regular features on Armin van Buuren’s ‘A State of Trance’ radio show and constant performances at clubs and festivals around the world, Shogun has truly established himself as trance royalty. Now on the verge of releasing his Black & Gold album, the trance warrior looks to further cement his status as one of electronic music’s greats.
We got an amazing opportunity to chat with Andrew better know by his stage name SHOGUN as he gears up to release his highly anticipated Black & Gold Album. Check it out:
1. What took you so long for this album to see the light of day?
A: I took some time off for my personal life, and the album took a long time to create. I’ve always believed in quality over quantity, so it takes me a bit longer to finish something I’m happy with.
2. Are you focusing on something different from your usual sounds as its been long to see SHOGUN production on ASOT and Vonyc Sessions?
A: I’m just doing everything at the moment. Of course, my roots and love are still with trance, however, instead of creating different aliases for different genres, I’ve decided to put it all together under Shogun. For me, trance isn’t the music style itself, but the epic feeling behind it. For example, even if a song isn’t 140 bpm, it could still be ‘trancey’ because of the melodies and the feels the production gives out. I’ve produced a lot of different types of genres, however now I’ve decided to put my name on everything. Also, I’m a firm believer that good music is good music despite the genre. There will be a lot more trance tracks on the way, but also other types of music I believe in as well.
3. Is there any special story behind the album’s title “Black & Gold”, can you share with us?
A: Black & Gold represents the style of music created for this album. When I started the productions, I finished 32 songs for the label to choose from. Each song had its own different style and genre. As a producer, it would be boring if I just made 1000 trance tracks, and as an artist, it is always important to evolve. I wanted to showcase a large variety of tracks and show people that good music is good music, regardless of genre. Yes, my original roots are trance and I love the genre.. however, I like all types of ‘EDM’, hip hop, reggae, classical music and etc. as well. The color Black represents the festival is driven/club anthems where there is a lot of energy people can rage too. This color was all about psy-trance, big room, and epic tracks that got you pumped up for a big night out at a festival. Gold, on the other hand, dealt more with love, and I chose to produce more radio-friendly tracks for it. Also, as a producer, I understand that maybe some people are just starting to get into dance music, and the Gold side is an easier way for them to ease into it, rather than being introduced to a heavy psytrance banger. I wanted to showcase my ability as a producer and have a bit of everything for Black & Gold.
4. What does Andrew do when he is not touring or is not producing music?
A: I’m either Netflix and chilling, out partying, driving my car, or eating sushi/pizza and playing video games!
5. Who influenced you the most to start producing your own music?
A: It was a mixture of everything I used to hear growing up on the radio. Nine Inch Nails, Wutang Clan, Whitney Houston, Depeche Mode, Madonna, 2Pac, Green Day, Oasis, Eagles. Basically, all the big radio hits got me into music and gave me the interest to make music. Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Gouryella for the good proper dance stuff.
6. If we remember correctly the last time you were in India was in 2013, first for ASOT 600 in March 2013 and again for Sunburn Noida in October 2013. When can Indian fans expect you to be in the country?
A: Yes, I played at those big festivals and India is one of the sickest places in the WORLD to DJ at. I also did 3 other clubs while on tour there as well. Expect to see me again near the end of the year!
7. Any special message to your fans in India?
A: Thank you for all your love and support. I love India and my fans there really hold a special place in my heart.
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