Fred Everything - Interview

Frederic Blais a.k.a. “Fred Everything” is one of House music’s most prolific producers, releasing quality tracks on labels such as Om Records and 2020 Vision. Constantly juggling a busy studio timetable with frequent DJ trips abroad, we caught up with him on his recent visit to Dublin, Ireland ...

DHN: How did you begin your career as a producer of House music?

FE: As long as I can remember I have been making music and buying equipment, synthesizers, drum machines and the like. Then I eventually started doing some shows and live PA’s at raves where I started to DJ as well and one thing led to another. My interest in house music grew over the years and I have been releasing records since 1996/1997 as a house producer.

DHN: Do you come from a musical background?

FE: Yes and no, I had lessons when I was a kid but I couldn’t take it further as the lack of a piano to practice was a problem.

DHN: Who would you say has influenced you most, musically?

FE: Back in the days, definitely New Order because they were the band I listened to the most as a kid and I was into English music, in general, with Factory Records and all that. I guess you could say I was into guitar music as much as the electronic side of things too. Right now my influences are wide and varied.

DHN: How did you come up with your production name? And why?

FE: It goes back to when I started playing in raves and it was really trendy at that time to have a name. It used to be just “Everything” because I used to start off my sets playing all kinds of music, from house to techno and, I confess, even some trance and breakbeat. I was interested in anything associated with the dance movement at the end of the 80’s beginning of the 90’s and enjoyed exploring and having fun with different styles. So that’s how the name came about and it has stuck with me over the years.

DHN: What are the main ingredients for a good nights clubbing?

FE: As a clubber, well the music’s got to be good, obviously, and a good crowd. As a DJ, it can’t be self-centered or too specialist. I like to have a good party with uplifting, interesting music. It’s got to move and be dynamic.

DHN: Which DJ’s tickle your cross fader and why?

FE: Chicago has always influenced my style, so DJ’s like Derrick Carter and Mark Farina spring to mind.

DHN: When playing abroad how do you go about preparing your DJ bag?

FE: It always depends on the tour, this time its Copenhagen and Ireland. I’ve been to Copenhagen before so I kind of know what they like. As for Ireland I have heard so much about its reputation as being the Mecca for deep house, I brought a mixture of classics and new material.

DHN: Which country have you enjoyed playing in the most so far? and why?

FE: That’s a tough question. There are too many things to consider, the club, the general environment so… I enjoy playing in England, I had a wicked time in New Zealand last November and I just got back from playing in Asia so that was cool. It’s very difficult to pick one place.

DHN: Why House music instead of another style?

FE: I think its what comes out naturally. House is just up-dated disco, it’s a language with many influences and a dance genre that I find allows me to express myself in a lot of different ways. I can produce different styles all within the same format.

DHN: What other genres do you find interesting?

FE: I definitely like good Hip-Hop and R&B, for example Jazzy Jeff’s new album. The production on tracks like that is of great interest. Good, downbeat soul music is always enjoyed.

DHN: What would you say is the common thread through out your productions?

FE: Good solid beats are a common thread. I definitely like to work on the beats because house music is very drum orientated. I try to stay clear of anything too contrived as I like things to evolve naturally and enjoy being able to listen to my music and discover some things myself after a few listens.

DHN: What are your plans for the future, production wise?

FE: I’ve got an album that’s pretty much ready and due out this Fall, also a mix CD coming out the same time. Remixes in the pipeline include ones for H-Foundation and Dennis Ferrer and for the labels Soma and Dessous. Collaborations include tracks with Majik Johnson from New Zealand and Lance DeSardi.

DHN: You’re going to be sent to a desert island and are allowed only 5 things, a book, a CD, a video, a favourite food and a special someone. What/who would they be?

FE: ...

Book – I have to confess I haven’t read anything memorable for over a year now, so I’ll pass on that.

CD – Marvin Gaye “What’s Going On” as it’s a complete album. Also Massive Attack’s “Blue Line” for its influence on me.

Video – Woody Allen’s “Manhattan”.

Food – Italian, as its basic and good.

Special someone – My girlfriend, of course.

www.fredeverything.com

Michael Black
2003