ARTIST SPOTLIGHT - JON BESANT

ReelHouse Records' head honcho, CN Williams, recently had an insightful conversation with DJ, producer, presenter, and event promoter Jon Besant. Jon shared his experiences, future plans in the USA, and all things music-related.

Background and Career:

Can you tell us about your journey into the world of DJing and music production?

I first started DJing when I was still at school, back in the vinyl days. It has obviously progressed from a set of Technics 1210s to the modern memory stick format and everything in between. Production came much later; I only started about two years ago.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music and events promotion?

I’ve always loved networking and used my marketing skills, creativity, and ability to bring people together to create my own events.

How did you first get involved with ReelHouse Records?

I got involved with your label when I was recommended it by a couple of amazing producers based in Dubai. I also noticed how similar the sound was to what I was producing a couple of years ago, making it the perfect platform to launch my production career.

Life in Dubai:

You’ve been living in Dubai for around 15 years. What initially brought you to Dubai, and how has the city influenced your music and career?

I decided to leave Manchester because of the rain! What better place to start fresh than Dubai? The city has changed dramatically since I arrived, and I love it even more now, despite it being ten times more vibrant.

Can you share some of your most memorable moments or events from your time in Dubai?

My biggest memories are from Zero Gravity, playing alongside the likes of Tiësto, Fatboy Slim, and many other headliners.

How has the music scene in Dubai evolved during your time there, and what role have you played in that evolution?

The scene has changed so much from just a handful of clubs to now having thousands of hospitality outlets offering a variety of entertainment from beach clubs to restaurants and nightclubs. Once, there was one headliner a month in the whole city, and now there can be 15 headliners in one weekend.

New Ventures:

You’re about to move to the USA to set up your next chapter. Can you tell us more about this new venture and what inspired its creation?

I'll be working in music to start off with, and as time goes on, I'll get back into events once I’m settled in and have brought my networking prowess and creative ideas to the table.

What are your goals and vision for the US, and how do you plan to differentiate it from the last decade?

I genuinely believe I am moving on to bigger and better things in the US. I felt extremely restricted in Dubai due to the saturated market and not having the backing to grow. Let's see, but I’m ready to smash this.

Are there any specific events or projects you’re particularly excited about launching in the USA?

My vision is to eventually run festivals and big club nights with headliners, and also to have a radio show that emulates the one I’ve had for the last decade here in the UAE.

Radio and Media:

You’ve hosted numerous radio shows, with your last show in the UAE on Pure Ibiza Radio 94.7. How did you get started in radio presenting, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I got into radio because I just can’t stop talking, and what I love most about it is that I can just keep on talking!

Can you share any highlights or standout moments from your time as a radio presenter?

The best highlights for me are all the recent shows I’ve done, inviting some of my closest friends to share memories and time together in Dubai.

Do you have plans to continue your radio work in the USA?

Yes, I have approached a number of radio stations, and hopefully, my experience and personality will be enough to get this over the line.

Music and Production:

Can you tell us about some of your recent releases with ReelHouse Records and any upcoming projects you’re working on?

The biggest recent release I’ve had on your label is "Julie's Black Coffee," which is currently being played all over Europe at famous beach clubs. I’m about to release three tracks that I made last year and three new ones with a very famous co-producer.

How do you approach the music production process, and where do you draw your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from mixing the sounds of the noughties from labels like Subliminal and Azuli and bringing them up-to-date to give them more of a Toolroom and Defected vibe.

Are there any collaborations or artists you’re particularly excited about working with in the future?

As mentioned, I’m currently working with somebody very famous, but due to legal reasons, I can’t name them. However, they’ve just signed a huge deal with the biggest record label in the world.

Personal Insights:

How do you balance your various roles as a DJ, producer, events promoter, and radio presenter?

Energy drinks!

What do you do in your downtime to relax and stay creative?

Everyone knows that my downtime is spent in the gym or getting steps in nature. As far as creativity is concerned, I think it just comes naturally to me. I’m very blessed with this talent.

What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers looking to make their mark in the industry?

Stay away from partying until you’ve made it.

Looking Ahead:

What are your hopes and aspirations for the next phase of your career in the USA?

I just want to work as hard as I can and bring as many of my ideas, contacts, and personality to the table to have no regrets about leaving Dubai.

Are there any long-term goals or dreams you’re working towards, both personally and professionally?

Professionally, I want to achieve the success I deserve. Personally, I just want to stay positive and make everyone around me as happy as possible.

How can fans stay updated on your latest news and projects?

The only fan I have is my mum, and we chat on WhatsApp every day. However, people can find me on Instagram @jonbesant if they really want to keep up-to-date with me.