Rewind Special: Nicky Romero – Then & Now
Initiate a conversation with one or more music aficionados regarding the prevailing state of dance music in the world and it surely won’t be long before Nicky Romero‘s name gets a notable mention. The Dutch superstar who is known across the dance music industry to possess a terrific work ethic is credited as a driving force behind the rapid growth of the dance music scene. In the past he has also said, “The main aim is to up my game at every possible turn without compromise”, and with a drive like that its no surprise that in every aspect of his life, whether as a DJ, producer or label head, he is recognized as a zealous advocate of his craft.
That coupled with his distinctive signature sound and compelling output leaves us with no surprise that he exploded into the DJ Mag Top 100 chart at #17 in 2012 which was the highest new entry that year and in the recently announced results of 2013’s poll, broke into the top 10, finding himself at #7.
Hit past the break to read up on our complete feature about the Dutch stalwart as he prepares himself to give the city of Mumbai an unforgettable night at Sunburn Arena with Nicky Romero!
Background
Romero who’s real name is Nick Rotteveel, was born on 6th January 1989 in the small city of Amerongen in Holland. He moved to Canada briefly after which he moved back to the Netherlands to pursue his education. Interestingly at the age of 6, he first discovered his innate talent for music as a drummer in his local marching band. That although fun, did not prove to be enough for young Nicky. At the age of 12 he got his first set of drums and started practising endlessly and after 3 more years of playing drums everyday and night, he decided it was time and chose to take to turntables.
School never held his interest, so after graduating he started producing music. From there onward, history unfolded in his favour as he set about on course not only to fulfil his dreams of musical stardom, but as an all- encompassing DJ/Producer. His keen interest in music quickly evolved into an unmatched passion for music production and early releases like, ‘Privilege’ and ‘Qwerty’ on Once Records, caught the attention of some of the more established labels including the likes of Spinnin’ Records, Toolroom Records and Flamingo Recordings.
From there on, Romero began to churn out tracks, each with a unique, enticing, yet innovating sound which captured the world’s most discerning ears and as he worked on his sound, he developed it into a seductive blend of progressive house with a tinge of electro and acid.
Furtherance of talent & notable tracks
To transition from song to song, possibly with some flair and effect is one piece of the puzzle, but at a young age, Nicky proved his talent not only behind the decks, but also in the studio. As a multitalented musician, his tremendous productions have led him into collaborations with the likes of the worlds most sought after electronic and hip-hop acts like David Guetta, Tiesto, Avicii, Krewella, Zedd, Usher, Madonna & more, along with a mentorship under the famed Fedde Le Grand.
His most successful solo releases like Toulouse, Se7en, Generation 303 and Symphonica have received massive support from a veritable who’s who of dance music aristocracy. As a performer too, he is a force to be reckoned with. Behind the decks his tenacity and ability to work a room was rewarded as he rounded out an intense international touring schedule with sets on the main-stage of both Electric Daisy Carnival, Tomorrowland & other popular music festivals across the world.
Today Nicky Romero is paying it forward with his Protocol brand, championing up and coming artists like Nilson and Tony Romera with his record label, club night and radio show. Despite only having been launched during ADE 2012, Protocol Radio already has more than 20 million listeners worldwide and continues to grow at a rapid rate, whilst a number of releases out of the Protocol Recordings catalogue have gone on to top a host of charts.
The Story Behind The Mask
A majority of you would be familiar with Nicky’s inclination towards the infamous ‘Guy Fawkes’ mask which we reckon a majority of you will also be donning at the memorable event. However, we thought we would give you a brief idea about the story behind the mask.
Guido Fawkes, who was popularly known as Guy Fawkes, was a member of the English Catholics who planned the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This group was involved in a conspiracy against the Protestant King James I. The failed attempt to assassinate the king was termed ‘Gunpowder Plot’. A number of you may also associate the mask to its association with ‘V For Vendetta’.
Interestingly Nicky also made use of the mask in the video of his chart topping track, “Toulouse”. Moreover, he has also uploaded a variety of photos on his different social media further establishing his affinity towards it.
The Google Glass Initiative
Always one to indulge in new and interesting technology, he also gave fans a taste of Google’s latest breakthrough development, the ‘Google Glass‘ which is a wearable smartphone during TomorroWorld‘s first instalment earlier this year . Click here to relive the experience once again.
Sunburn Arena with Nicky Romero
Even though at young age, he has established himself as one of the leading artists in the industry, there is no reason to expect the train will stop here. Pushing relentlessly forward and with the wind at his back, the Nicky Romero brand it seems shall continue to mature, becoming an increasingly influential and venerated force in the international music arena.
Romero shall be in India day after, for one night only for the latest instalment of Sunburn’s concept Sunburn Arena. Interestingly it is not known to many but this shall be his second time in the country, previously coming to India in 2010 for a three city tour. Get ready to witness the dance music maverick live as he gets set to give us one of the most memorable nights of our lives!