ALIGASH is one of the most influential Trance music artists in China, with nearly three decades of professional experience. From an early age, he developed a deep passion for music and a keen sensitivity to melody and harmony. Over time, this passion evolved into a career as a professional DJ and music producer. In 2019, he adopted the new stage name ALIGASH, focusing entirely on Trance music production. With his exceptional talent and boundless enthusiasm for music, ALIGASH has gained the passionate support of hundreds of thousands of Trance fans across China.
From humble beginnings shaped by a love of traditional music to becoming one of China’s leading Trance music artists, ALIGASH’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and artistic evolution. With nearly three decades of experience, he has captivated hundreds of thousands of fans through his uplifting soundscapes and powerful DJ sets. In this exclusive interview, ALIGASH opens up about his creative process, personal philosophy, and the inspirations that drive his music, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a producer and DJ who continues to shape the electronic music scene in China and beyond.
Background
Let's start with your journey into the world of electronic dance music. Understanding your roots and early influences helps us connect with the artist behind the sound.
Dimitris: How did your journey into the electronic dance music (EDM) scene begin, and what were the key influences that shaped your style?
ALIGASH: I have been involved with electronic music for about 30 years. My early years were dedicated to studying traditional music, which gave me a solid foundation. In my teenage years, I accidentally came across electronic music, and it completely changed my perspective — it felt like discovering a whole new world. From that moment, I fell in love with this style and made the decision to pursue a path as an electronic music producer and DJ.
Dimitris: What personal values or life philosophies do you carry that also reflect in your music?
ALIGASH: I believe in authenticity and persistence. Life always brings challenges, but I see music as a way to heal, inspire, and connect. My productions reflect this balance of emotion and strength—uplifting but grounded, powerful yet sensitive.
Dimitris: How has your understanding of the electronic music culture changed from when you started to where you are now?
ALIGASH: At the beginning, I was attracted by the entirely new form of expression that electronic music offered. Over time, my understanding of electronic music culture has deepened significantly. I have not only mastered production techniques and sound design, but also learned how to feel and guide the audience’s energy during live performances, while respecting the rich history and diversity of the scene. Electronic music culture is not just about the tracks; it is an auditory art and a shared experience, a global community, and a way to communicate emotions without words.
Dimitris: Which piece of music equipment or software can you not live without, and why?
ALIGASH: Definitely Logic Pro. It’s where all my ideas come alive—from sketching melodies to finalizing mixes. Combined with a few analog synths, it gives me the flexibility to translate emotions into sound.
Dimitris: Can you share an unforgettable incident from your career—whether funny, unexpected, or challenging?
ALIGASH: One of the most unforgettable moments in my career happened on December 13, 2024, during the final show of my personal tour that year. On that very morning, while sitting on the plane to the city where I was scheduled to perform, I received news from the hospital that my father had passed away. My heart sank to its lowest point. Despite the immense grief, canceling the show was not an option — many fans had traveled from distant cities, and some even from other countries, to see me perform. I pushed through the pain and completed the performance, then returned the next day to take care of my father’s affairs. This experience has left an indelible mark on my life and career.
- Current Projects:
Now that we know a bit about your background, we'd love to hear about what you're working on right now. Your current projects offer a glimpse into your creative process and artistic evolution.
Dimitris: Could you please elaborate on the inspiration behind your remix on Misja Helsloot’s track “Back Where It All Started” out now on Aly & Fila's label FSOE ? How does it align with your current artistic aspirations?
ALIGASH: The single I released on FSOE on September 29 is a remix of Misja Helsloot’s track “Back Where It All Started.” My approach to this rework was to preserve the original essence and vibe that Misja Helsloot created, while fully incorporating my own personal style. The goal was to make the track feel more energetic, with richer layers and a fuller emotional depth.
Dimitris: Have you produced any new tracks since the one we're discussing in this interview? If so, could you share the inspiration behind them?
ALIGASH: Yes, I have a new track that is expected to be released by the end of the year. Its inspiration revolves around themes of wandering and belonging. In this piece, I liken myself to a cloud, drifting between reality and memory, with emotions moving like the wind — turning into rain when I’m sad, chasing light when I’m happy. Though my hometown may be far away, the sense of longing always remains.
Dimitris: Could you describe your current approach to music production and how it has evolved over the years?
ALIGASH: In the early years, I focused mostly on melody. Now, I put equal energy into sound design and atmosphere. I want every layer to have purpose, so the listener feels the track is alive, constantly moving.
Dimitris: What are some of the challenges you face when producing music, and how do you overcome them?
ALIGASH: The main challenge for me is how to push myself and make each new track a step forward, a new breakthrough. When I feel stuck or lack inspiration, I like to step outside and spend time in nature, giving myself a chance to relax. Returning to the studio after a break from a confined space often brings fresh ideas and new perspectives.
Dimitris: How do you stay motivated and creatively inspired amidst the fast-paced nature of the EDM scene?
ALIGASH: First and foremost, it is my love for music that keeps me going, and secondly, the support from my fans, these are the sources of motivation that allow me to persist. As for creative inspiration, music is an auditory art, and art comes from life. I translate my personal experiences into musical expressions, turning my life journey into sounds that I can share with everyone.
- Future Plans:
Dimitris: Looking ahead, we're curious about your aspirations. What exciting plans and ambitions are on the horizon for you?
ALIGASH: I hope to bring Uplifting Trance to a wider audience in China through my efforts, and to create more opportunities for cultural exchange between Eastern and Western electronic music.
Dimitris: What are your future plans in terms of new releases, collaborations, or live performances?
ALIGASH: I will continue releasing singles on well-known Trance labels and focus on collaborations with international artists. My dream is to bring Uplifting Trance performances to China and beyond, building a bridge for electronic music exchange between the East and the West.
Dimitris: Are there any collaborations you dream of, either with other artists or brands, that you haven’t yet explored?
ALIGASH: I dream of collaborating with some of the world’s top Trance artists to create tracks that blend our unique styles and bring new energy to the scene. I am also interested in partnering with innovative music technology brands to explore creative possibilities in sound design and live performances. These collaborations would inspire me and push my music to new heights.
Dimitris: How do you incorporate new trends or technologies in your music while maintaining your unique sound?
ALIGASH: I pay attention to new trends and technologies, and I consider incorporating them into my music when they align with my own style.
Dimitris: What message would you like to share with your fans and the broader EDM community about your journey and vision?
ALIGASH: Never give up on your passion. Music has the power to transform struggles into strength, and that’s exactly what I hope people feel when they hear my tracks.
- Music Industry & Technology:
The music industry is constantly evolving, influenced by technology and cultural shifts. Let's dive into your thoughts on these changes and how they impact your work.
Dimitris: How do you see the current state of the electronic music industry, and what changes would you like to see?
ALIGASH: I think the electronic music industry is constantly growing and evolving, with more opportunities for artists around the world. However, I hope to see more support for original music and emerging talents, and more opportunities for international collaboration and cultural exchange.
Dimitris: What role do you think AI technology plays in the future of electronic music production, and have you experimented with it?
ALIGASH: I believe AI technology can serve as a helpful assistant in electronic music production, supporting sound design, arrangement, or providing creative inspiration. As AI technology continues to mature, I plan to explore using it as an auxiliary tool in my future works.
Dimitris: How do you feel about the shift towards streaming platforms for music consumption—do you think it's beneficial for artists?
ALIGASH: I think streaming platforms are very useful for reaching a wider audience and sharing music globally. The income from streaming is usually small per play, so artists still need other ways, like performances or collaborations, to earn sustainably.
Dimitris: How important do you find online tutorials and classes for aspiring producers, and do you engage in any form of music education yourself?
ALIGASH: Although I haven’t formally participated in online tutorials or educational programs myself, I believe they are very important for aspiring music producers. They provide direct access to knowledge and can help improve their production skills.
- Personal Insights:
To wrap things up, we'd love to get a glimpse into your personal life and philosophy. These insights help us understand the person behind the music.
Dimitris: How do you maintain a balance between your personal life and your music career?
ALIGASH: I try to maintain a balance by setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. I make sure to rest, spend time with family, and take care of my health. This helps me stay focused and creative when I’m producing music or performing live.
Dimitris: What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers looking to make their mark in the industry?
ALIGASH: My advice is to stay passionate, never forget your original intention, and be patient. Always focus on developing your own unique style and learn from every experience. Consistently producing music and dedicating yourself sincerely to your craft are key to making your mark in the industry.
- DJ-Specific Insights: For Producers Who Spin the Decks
While many electronic music producers focus solely on studio work, some bring their sound to life through dynamic DJ performances. This section is tailored specifically for producers who are also DJs, highlighting the unique blend of skills and experiences that come with managing both roles.
The Art of DJing:
Dimitris: What inspired you to transition from producing to DJing, or did both passions develop simultaneously?
ALIGASH: I became a DJ first and then transitioned into music production. Now, I develop both as a producer and a DJ. I have always enjoyed creating music in the studio, but I also want to share my tracks live and connect directly with the audience. DJing brings my music to life and also inspires new ideas for my productions.
Dimitris: Can you walk us through your DJing process—from track selection to live mixing? How do you curate a set that resonates with different audiences?
ALIGASH: My DJing process starts with carefully selecting tracks that fit the mood I want to create, including my own productions and tracks from other artists. I pay attention to the energy flow, harmonics, and how one track transitions into the next. During live performances, I constantly observe the crowd and adjust my set in real time to match their energy. This approach allows me to create a journey that resonates with different audiences while keeping the set dynamic and engaging.
Dimitris: What are some essential DJ techniques you’ve mastered over the years, and how have they evolved with emerging technologies?
ALIGASH: I like to control the overall mood of a performance through music. I prefer more traditional mixing techniques, letting the music take the lead on stage. I don’t want the audience to focus on flashy DJ tricks; instead, I want them to fully immerse themselves in the music and experience the essence of the set.
Dimitris: How do you handle unexpected challenges during a live set, such as equipment malfunctions or shifts in crowd energy?
ALIGASH: I believe that most DJs encounter unexpected situations during their careers. When this happens, the first thing is to stay calm. If there’s an equipment malfunction, I quickly switch to backup gear. If a wrong button is pressed by mistake, I recover naturally and continue the performance.
- Mixing Styles and Techniques:
Dimitris: Which mixing style do you prefer—long transitions, quick cuts, harmonic mixing, or another technique? How do you decide which style suits a particular set?
ALIGASH: I prefer to arrange my sets based on the harmonies of the tracks. For mixing, I like to use long transitions, as they feel more natural and smooth.
Dimitris: How do you incorporate effects, loops, and EQ adjustments to add depth and dynamics to your live mixes?
ALIGASH: In my live mixes, I use effects carefully, occasionally applying them during breakdowns to enhance the atmosphere, but never to distract from the music. I rely on EQ adjustments quite a lot, as proper EQing makes the entire mixing process feel very natural.
Dimitris: Do you prefer beatmatching manually or using sync features? How do these choices impact your creative flow during performances?
ALIGASH: For me, I always stick to manual beatmatching in my live performances because it gives me more creative freedom, and I’m used to this method. For other DJs, both manual and sync methods are fine—it’s all about finding what works best for you.
Dimitris: How do you seamlessly blend different genres or tempos within a set to keep the energy consistent and engaging?
ALIGASH: As a Trance DJ, I usually keep a consistent tempo and style, focusing on smooth flow and energy.
- Unforgettable Sets:
Dimitris: Reflecting on your career, what has been your most memorable DJ set and what made it stand out for you personally?
ALIGASH: For me, every DJ set is memorable because each performance has its unique moments that stay with me.
Dimitris: Have you ever been inspired or influenced by another DJ’s set that left a lasting impact on your approach to performances? If so, could you share that experience?
ALIGASH: No, I believe every DJ’s set has its own unique character, just like appearance or fashion style. It’s important to develop your own performance identity.
- Crowd Engagement Strategies:
Dimitris: What cues do you look for in the crowd to gauge their energy and adjust your set accordingly?
ALIGASH: It’s easy to sense the crowd’s state at a live show if you pay attention—by observing their dance movements, eyes, and reactions to the music. If they experience auditory fatigue, I adjust the music’s mood or tempo; if they show physical fatigue, I modify the energy and atmosphere of the music accordingly.
Dimitris: How do you create a unique connection with the audience beyond just playing tracks—do you use visuals, spontaneous track selections, or interact directly with the crowd?
ALIGASH: Besides simply playing tracks during a live set, I like to connect with my fans before the performance by taking photos and chatting with them. If I notice during the set that the audience isn’t fully satisfied, and conditions allow, I may extend the set a little. After the performance, I also spend some time interacting with fans again.
Dimitris: How do you handle moments when the crowd’s energy dips? What strategies do you employ to reignite the vibe?
ALIGASH: This requires careful pre-planning of the set. A live set cannot stay at high energy the entire time; the emotional flow needs to have highs and lows. When I notice a dip in the crowd’s energy, I judge it by observing their reactions: if they experience auditory fatigue, I adjust the mood or tempo of the music; if they are physically tired, I tweak the intensity and atmosphere of the music to reignite the energy on the floor.
- Technical Preferences:
Dimitris: What DJ equipment or software do you consider indispensable, and why does it hold such significance in your performances?
ALIGASH: For my live performances, I find that having just a DJ controller and a mixer is enough. These are the essential and indispensable tools for a show.
Dimitris: How do you integrate your own productions into your DJ sets to create a signature live experience?
ALIGASH: My sets are primarily focused on TRANCE, and since my productions are also TRANCE, they blend seamlessly into the performance. Many of my fans attending the show are familiar with my music, which makes my live performances uniquely recognizable.
- Balancing Production and Performance:
Dimitris: How do you manage the creative balance between producing new tracks in the studio and preparing for high-energy DJ gigs?
ALIGASH: I manage my time carefully, separating production and performance while keeping them connected. When creating new tracks in the studio, I focus entirely on the music and exploring fresh ideas. When preparing for DJ gigs, I bring these creations to the stage and see how the audience responds. This cycle allows my productions and performances to feed each other, keeping my music fresh and my live sets energetic.
Dimitris: Does your approach to music production change based on the feedback or experiences you gain from live performances?
ALIGASH: Yes, the feedback from my live performances does inspire my production. I observe how the audience reacts to different tracks, which parts engage them the most, and which rhythms or moods are more appreciated. I then take these insights into the studio to make my new productions more impactful.
Dimitris: This expanded section celebrates the dynamic journey of producers who thrive both in the studio and on stage, offering insights into the techniques, stories, and inspirations that shape their dual artistry.
ALIGASH: As both a producer and a DJ, I enjoy bringing my studio creations to life on stage. The experiences, techniques, and inspirations from each role feed into the other, making my music and performances more dynamic.
- Closing Statement:
Dimitris: Please tell us your final statement to our readers who will read this interview.
ALIGASH: Thank you so much for taking the time to share your journey, insights, and experiences with us. Your thoughtful responses will surely inspire and resonate with fans and fellow artists alike. We truly appreciate your contribution to the electronic music community and look forward to witnessing your continued success!
As ALIGASH continues his mission to unite audiences through the power of Trance, his story reminds us of the transformative energy music holds. From the studio to the stage, he remains committed to authenticity, innovation, and emotional connection. Fans can expect more high-energy releases, international collaborations, and unforgettable live performances in the future. Follow his journey and stay inspired as he carries the sound of Uplifting Trance to new heights around the world.
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