We chat to visionary producer and techno veteran Josh Wink ahead of his appearance at Content’s very last show at Joshua Brooks.
Jimmy Coultas
Date published: 23rd Jul 2013
Content could not have booked anyone bettter to showcase what they are all about, and his 3hr set at Joshua Brooks this Friday is eagerly anticipated to say the least. We chomped at the bit to tie the Ovum boss down and find out more behind the scenes of the charismatic American producer, what lies in the future for him, and maybe get a glimpse into what we can expect with his appearance in Manchester...
What music did you listen to growing up? What made you want to start producing?
Little bit of everything. My mum listened to radio my father classical music. My brother was into all. Zappa, Bowie, Arlo Guthrie to Kraftwerk. I'd say it was Kraftwerk and Chicago Acid House that made me want to start making music.
How would you say your sound has changed over the years?
The computer has changed most things for me. Software and electronics.
I would say you can still tell a wink production by a certain sound. At least that's what Ive been told!
Your label Ovum is still going strong after 19 years. Did you ever think when it started out it would become as iconic as it has?
Nope. that's the beauty of life. You never know what is to be. But, when it's as passionate as it is for us… I'm not surprised we're still up and running.
How do you select which tracks you’re going to sign? What makes a
piece of music stand out to you?
Just something about the sound. It doesn't have to be 'trendy' or "In" sounding. As long as we feel the track from our hearts, it's a good one to sign!
Over your career, what has been your biggest highlight?
The fact that I'm still doing what I believed in after 25 years! Longevity for me says it all! Also being able to be inspiring to others!
We’re looking forward to your appearance at Manchester’s Content. How do you find the British crowd?
It's the same saying. If it's the right venue and right crowd- Then again, you guys are always up for it and it just clicks! Last time at Joshua Brooks with Content was electric! I'm expecting the same at the closing party!
Will you be throwing anything special into your performance there?
Never know. That's the beauty of djing. It's always open to go wherever! Who knows though.
Do you feel any pressure being a veteran of the scene? Do you try and stay innovative and ahead of the game or just stick to your own thing? Or both!?
I entertain and educate. It's the best motto for a dj to live by. So, I innovate with entertaining. Keeps my integrity in check!
Josh Wink - Balls
Was there a point early on in in your career where you realized that this was exactly what you wanted to be doing?
Nope. It was simply something that I just wanted to do all the time. Whether I was getting paid or not. I wanted to be involved in music. I feel very blessed!
Top 5 favourite records at the moment?
1- David Alvarado "Ysleta" Ovum
2- Josh Wink "Balls" Ovum
3 - Eduardo De La Calle "Pink Water" - Cadenza
4 - Arnaud Le Texier "Minotaur" (ROD Rmx) - RetroMetro
5- Hiver - Teasel (tobias. Rmx) - Curle
What can we look forward to from Josh Wink in the near future?
Lots of great things for ovum! Curating stages at festivals and hopefully a great follow up to "Balls" in the near future, along with continuing my Profound Sounds Radio Shows.
Finally, what would you be if you weren't a producer?
Quantum Physicist dealing with solar cell technology.
Catch Josh Wink's mammoth 3 hour set at Content's Joshua Brooks swansong by getting your Content tickets here...
Tickets are no longer available for this event
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