Behind The Beats: Robbie Doherty
Join us as we dive into the world of Robbie Doherty, uncovering the inspiration and artistry behind his music. In this candid interview, we explore the heart of his creative process and the rhythms that fuel his craft. Step inside Robbie’s universe as we reveal the authentic essence of a true musical innovator.
Robbie, can you share how you typically kickstart a new project? Do you begin with a specific idea, a mood, or something else entirely?
I start lots of new ideas, and to be honest, many of them never make it past a 16-bar loop! However, those that do usually have some form of motivation, like a show I’ve just played, a party I’ve been to, or, more often than not, an upcoming gig where I want to make something fresh for that set.
Your sound has a unique identity. How do you push creative boundaries without losing the essence of what makes your music “you”?
I think where many people, including myself in the past, lose the essence of their sound is by following trends too much! Most of the unique qualities of my production are just happy accidents, to be honest, that ended up sounding good! It’s just about having the confidence to embrace those sounds that might seem a little different.
What’s your relationship with technology in the studio? Are there any underrated tools, plugins, or methods you swear by?
I have a terrible relationship with technology in general… I’m no tech guru. However, I do have one little Korg Minilogue synth at home that I sometimes use. Most of the sounds I use are stock plugins from Ableton, as I’ve always been able to get any sound I’ve desired from them in the past. But maybe this year, it’s time for me to invest in some new gear!
The music landscape is constantly shifting. How do you stay ahead of trends while staying true to your own style?
Shifting with the trend isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as long as you don’t become a carbon copy of someone else’s sound! Learn from others, but put your own spin on things to stay unique. The most important thing is enjoying the music you make.
Collaboration can be transformative. What’s been one of the most unexpected or impactful experiences you’ve had working with other artists?
To be honest, it was probably the recent collab with my Irish lads, Obskür! We started an idea, passed it back and forth, and had the track done in a few days, only using WhatsApp voice notes to relay ideas. I was surprised by how well it’s been received, even as an unreleased tune. Also, our styles seemed to work really nicely together. I’m looking forward to releasing that one and maybe getting into the studio together to make another one someday.
Out of all your tracks, is there one that holds a particularly deep personal meaning or stands out because of the story behind its creation?
There are a few! The artwork on my Shall Not Fade EP was dedicated to my late grandfather, whose nickname was Badger. So I asked the designer if he could sketch a badger drinking a Guinness for the artwork! ‘Bass Jumpin’ is also special to me, as I made it in a hotel room in Ibiza before going to DC10 with some friends. I sent the track to Chris Stussy before getting in the taxi and heard it for the first time on the DC10 terrace that night!
When creativity feels like it’s running dry, how do you break out of that cycle and find your flow again?
I’ve yet to figure out the secret… there’s nothing more frustrating than the block! I’ve just learned not to get too wound up by a lack of creativity over time, as you can’t force it, but it always returns in the end!
As you look ahead, how do you see your sound evolving, and are there any new directions or genres you’re eager to explore?
I’ve got back into playing guitar again recently, so maybe I’ll experiment with some guitar in my tracks!
How do you approach tailoring your sets for different audiences? Any upcoming gigs where you’re looking forward to experimenting or trying something new?
Normally, I go into a gig with an open mind. The first 20 minutes of a set is really about figuring out what the people enjoy. I played in Romania for the first time recently, where I found I was able to play a little deeper than usual, which was fun. Also, I have an upcoming gig in Shelter (Amsterdam), which has an amazing sound system, so I’m looking forward to putting it to the test!
If you could give one golden piece of advice to your younger self or to new DJs/producers starting out, what would it be?
Never give up, and keep making music. But don’t put too much pressure on ‘success’. If you enjoy what you do, then you’ll always be happy doing it. Sometimes it’s nice to reflect on your achievements too, however big or small they may be! I know I never expected to achieve as much as I have.
Finally, can you share three tracks that are staples in your sets right now?
Ohh, that’s a tough one! I think it’s easier if I give you three artists who have been in all my sets recently. Obskür have made some really nice music this year, Milion from Amsterdam (especially his EP on Rossi’s label Homegrown), and of course Kolter!
