EDM has risen to new levels of prominence in recent years and right at the very heart of that, stands Alesso. Despite acquiring success and fame as a musician, DJ and producer at a very young age, he bucks the trend of being persistently in the media. His achievements are undeniable yet he has remained grounded and almost enigmatic as he oscillates from a reserved disciple of music to lord of the dance (music). Since 2012 Alesso has been charting gold and platinum hits with big names and has wracked up an obscene number of downloads and plays across all mediums. If he can achieve all that he has in four years and at 25 years of age, you have to wonder what he will be able to achieve in forty.

 

You have had well in excess of half a billion plays across all platforms with hundreds of millions of views on Youtube alone. When was the first time you felt as if you’d ‘made it’?

I don’t ever feel like I’ve made it. I’ve set goals for myself since the beginning of my career. Like I hope I get to release a track, then I hope I play at least one live show a month, I hope I get to signed to a label. So each experience for me has been incredible and I don’t take anything for granted.

 

You’ve played some of the best festivals and venues in the world and this got me wondering: what would you say is the best moment of your career so far?

There isn’t just one particular moment I can pick. I’ve had a few. Headlining the Sahara Tent at Coachella not only once but twice. My own show at the globe in Stockholm and now this year headlining Summerburst festival has all been monumental moments for me.

 

If you could choose to play anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I love going to Asia. It’s one of my favorite places in the world and I enjoy my time there so much.

 

You’ve collaborated with A-list music stars like Calvin Harris, Usher and David Guetta. So, in a similar vein, if you got to choose your next collaboration, with whom would it be?

Drake.

 

Knowing what you know now, is there any warnings you would have given 16-year-old you before your music career took off?

Enjoy every moment. Don’t take anything for granted. And it’s always going to be hard work.

 

Similarly, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who want to follow in similar footsteps to you?

Just stay passionate, be confident, be brave and you will find your way.

 

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?

I think I would still have a job in entertainment or music in some capacity.

 

What should we look out for from you in 2016?

New music!

 

What is your FAULT?

Making people dance!

 

Words: Robert Baggs