When you’re widely referred to as “the DJ’s DJ” and “the producer’s producer” you know you’re doing something right, and UK impresario Charles Webster has been doing it ‘right’ for more than two decades. During his career he’s sold more than 100,000 albums, which is a staggering statistic considering he’s maintained a credible underground profile throughout it all.
Earlier this year he released a career defining triple disc compilation on noted UK house label Defected, which might seem like an odd choice for an identity as discerning as Webster, but he was won over by their respectful approach to his musical vision. “I guess some ‘house purists’ may see it as selling out or something, but I don’t think it matters which label it is on… the main thing is the music.”
Heading to Australia for an east coast tour over the coming weeks, inthemix tracked him down for a chinwag to talk digital DJing, Defected and his upcoming trip down under.
A lot of people refer to you as ‘the DJ’s DJ’ and ‘the producer’s producer’. They’re pretty imposing titles; is it a lot to live up to?
Well… firstly it is very flattering, I always try to do what I do to the highest level and never compromise and always produce or DJ as well as possible. Secondly, it is not so hard to live up to, I just do what I do and never try to be or sound like anyone else.
You released a three disc compilation on the Defected label recently. How did you come to work with them?
We were initially going to release the compilation on my label – Miso – but Simon [Dunmore] from Defected got wind of it and offered a deal for them to release it. We figured it could reach more people that way.
Defected is one of the more commercially successful independent dance labels on the scene. As someone who has always stuck to the underground, were you concerned with how it might affect your profile by releasing music with them?
Initially, yes I was a little concerned… but the music is exactly how I wanted it so I didn’t have to compromise in any way at all. They have been very respectful to my wishes. I guess some ‘house purists’ may see it as selling out or something, but I don’t think it matters which label it is on… the main thing is the music.
You’ve had over 20 years experience on the scene. Thinking back to when you first started out, did you ever imagine you’d make your career in the industry? Was that a plan, or was it more of a happy accident?
I always wanted to be in music, since I was around 12 years old. I think my belief and honesty with what I do has enabled me to continue.
Has it been hard work remaining relevant throughout that time – as sounds and styles come and go?
I feel you just have to keep learning and developing as an artist, that way you will remain relevant. But, not [to] make sweeping stylistic changes though, that way people lose faith in you. I feel you just have to be honest with your music and be open to new ideas, that way you can never be pigeonholed.
One of the biggest changes that you’ve no doubt watched come through would be the digital age and its influence over the scene, be it mp3s and the internet impacting record sales or CDJs and laptop DJing. What’s your take on it all – do you like to keep it old school, or do you stay up to date on it all?
The digital age has affected CD and vinyl sales for sure, as it has DJing and performing live… and of course production also. It is a double edged sword in my opinion, it has ‘democratised’ the process and opened up the world of music making to many people. But I feel it has lowered expectations for music, when technology should be improving the quality of music, it is actually lowering it in my opinion. But, I am open minded to it all. I use all media; 12”, CD, Serato. The format doesn’t really matter to me, it’s the content that is important.
What sort of state do you feel the club scene is in at the moment. Either in the UK, Europe or elsewhere around the world – where are the hot spots for you, or where is it on the way out?
The scene is very global now because of the internet, people can access music in a more democratic way, [they’re] not so reliant on big labels and media. So I feel it is quite healthy, there are hot spots everywhere. At the moment I am in Japan, always a great place for me… as is Australia of course!
You’ll be heading to Australia later this month, what are you memories of past tours here?
I have toured twice in Australia and always had a fantastic time, the crowds are very warm and receptive and the people are lovely. I’m really looking forward to it again!
‘Defected Presets Charles Webster’ is available now, distributed locally by Stomp. If you want to see the man in the flesh be sure to check him out touring the east coast over the coming weeks:
Jul 26 – Future Classic Label Night, Sydney
Aug 1 – Barsoma, Brisbane
Aug 2 – Ffour, Melbourne
JackT says...
Cannot wait!
nzala says...
HUUUUUUUUUGE!