SCRATCH: WAIVING TIME INTO MUSIC
Throughout my life, I've harbored a deep desire to play traditional physical instruments like the pipa, koto, or gusheng. However, the practicality of owning and mastering these instruments became a hurdle due to my nomadic lifestyle and limited resources. But as they say, necessity is the mother of invention, and it was during my pursuit of a musical outlet that I stumbled upon a unique solution – a DJ controller. This digital instrument has not only allowed me to explore my passion for music but has also opened doors to new artistic expressions and experiences.
As someone who loves music and creativity, I was immediately intrigued by the concept of a DJ controller. Its versatility and portability made it a perfect fit for my nomadic lifestyle. I found myself drawn to the idea of playing an instrument that, in essence, controls time – an instrument of the future. It wasn't just about mixing and playing other artists' music; it was about creating a unique sound that represents my vision as an artist.
Initially, I used the DJ controller primarily for DJ sets, curating playlists, and blending tracks seamlessly to set the perfect vibe. But as I delved deeper into the capabilities of my digital instrument, I began experimenting with sound design. Recently, Inspired by Maninna_noor's captivating livestreams, I explored the vast world of sound manipulation, uncovering new textures and tones to enrich my musical compositions.
Scratching, which is mostly linked with hip-hop, was something I never expected to incorporate in my music production using a DJ controller. But now it makes much more sense to me, as it adds a touch of individuality to my music. This unexpected twist in my musical journey reminded me that restrictions are just chances to be innovative.
One of the most enchanting aspects of being a digital instrument musician is embracing the underground vibe. I cherish the feeling of stepping away from mainstream conventions and exploring uncharted territories in music production. My DJ controller allows me to blend elements of different genres, creating music that's authentic, raw, and genuinely me.
As I continue to evolve as a digital instrument musician, I can't help but appreciate the futuristic aspects of my chosen path. The blending of traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology has opened a world of possibilities, challenging me to push my creative boundaries and redefine the concept of music-making.
My journey as a digital instrument musician has been nothing short of transformative. Through my DJ controller, I have discovered a unique way to express myself creatively, delving into sound design, scratching, and the underground music scene. While my initial desire to play traditional physical instruments remains, I've come to appreciate the beauty of working with what I have – a versatile, portable, and futuristic musical companion that has become an extension of my identity as an artist. I encourage others to embrace their own digital instruments and embark on their own musical adventures, as there is a whole world of innovation and expression waiting to be explored.
And thanks to maninna_noor, who inspired me to get back into scratching, I've made some adjustments to my workflow for this particular element. I'm not sure if it will become a permanent part of my workflow, but I'm excited to see how much progress I can make.