"I always play like it will be my last gig": Kerri Chandler Q&A

An ambassador of the natural and instinctive 4/4 beat, Kerri's influences can be traced back to New Jersey, where he grew up in a family of jazz musicians. Few control a club like this man.

Kerri Chandler headlines the relaunch of Warehouse in London on Saturday 25th August, so we threw a few questions his way ahead of the event.

What is house music to you? How does it make you feel?
It is my voice, the way I speak and express my heart and soul. I love the entire process, from making music to playing music.

What are some tracks which best sum up house music for you?
There are way too many, and I am a very moody guy, but there is a track for every reason.

Do you think it had a halcyon period, or is it as strong as it’s ever been?
I feel it’s in cycles every seven to ten years. New kids, new energy to keep this thing alive and vibrant; I have a love of everyone and just try to add my take on it.

Do you think new producers/people to the scene should learn of its history? Is it necessary knowledge in order to become a respected artist do you think?
I think everyone young and old should embrace everything; music, culture and life. House is such an amazing art form, the feeling of the music cuts right though to the heart.

What should people expect when you play the Warehouse opening in London?
I play how I feel and I always play like it will be my last gig ever. Anywhere I am, I give 110 percent, because tomorrow isn't promised to you and I wouldn't want to ever do anything else.

I hear you do keen sound checks before every gig, is that true? Is sound generally as good as it has ever been or are standards slipping?
I feel technology is changing so maintenance for a sound system is key. If it's sound for hire I absolutely make sure I have sound checks to make sure everything is correct. I am very hands on with my sound, because if something goes wrong most people won’t blame the sound system they will blame the DJ, and as far as what it sounds like, I don’t want to feel limited on what I can or cannot play because of a sound system.

Kerri Chandler headlines The Warehouse re-opening party on August 25th. Tickets are available through Skiddle below.

Tickets are no longer available for this event