In a recent appearance on the Q with Tom Power podcast, renowned electronic music artist deadmau5, whose real name is Joel Zimmerman, offered a candid look back at his illustrious 25-year career. Despite his status as one of the most recognizable DJs in the industry, Zimmerman’s comments during the interview revealed some surprising perspectives on the genre he has helped shape.
“I don’t really enjoy dance music…I don’t partake. I don’t pump it in my car. I don’t walk it, I don’t talk it, I don’t breathe it, I don’t get excited about it,” Zimmerman stated during the podcast. However, he was quick to clarify that he still loves the process of creating dance music, appreciating the technical challenges and sonic development involved.
Zimmerman’s comments may come as a shock to some, given his renowned status within the dance music community. However, his honesty and willingness to challenge the status quo have often been a source of both praise and controversy throughout his career.
Despite his personal ambivalence towards the genre, Zimmerman’s contributions to dance music have been undeniable. He was recently inducted into the Canadian Music Week’s Music Industry Hall of Fame, and is currently in the midst of his retro5pective tour, which celebrates his 25 years of excellence in the industry.
Interestingly, Zimmerman’s introduction to music came not from dance, but from an unexpected source – the British pop band Tears for Fears. He recalls his father bringing home a new hi-fi system and a selection of CDs, one of which happened to be a Tears for Fears album. This chance encounter sparked Zimmerman’s lifelong passion for music, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him to become one of the most influential figures in the dance music world.
Zimmerman’s journey has also been marked by the incredible technological advancements that have transformed the music production landscape over the years. He notes that the gear and tools available to producers today were not readily accessible when he first started out, underscoring the significant evolution of the industry.
While Zimmerman’s candid comments may surprise some, his willingness to challenge the norms of the industry he has helped shape is a testament to his authenticity and creative vision. As he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in electronic music, fans and industry insiders alike will undoubtedly be eager to see what the next chapter holds.
