Fresh off his India tour, Simon Doty sat down with CME to discuss the balance between melody and club energy, the irreplaceable human elements in music, and why Indian crowds continue to stand out. The producer also reflected on the artists who shaped his journey and the evolving landscape of electronic music.
1. This isn’t your first time connecting with fans from India. What has stood out to you about the Indian electronic music audience?
The people are super passionate about music and life. They always bring a lot of energy and I think it’s one of the best places in the world to play.
2. You are known to put out some intriguing releases time and again that captures our emotions. How do you decide when a track is ‘done’? Is there a specific moment in the studio where the song tells you it doesn’t need another layer?”
It’s difficult sometimes, but I think once you’ve done it for long enough you just learn to trust your gut. Getting to play it to live audiences really helps to understand if that track is working or needs more work.
3. Your sound sits between melodic emotion and club energy. How do you strike that balance without losing either side?
Ya I’m always trying to be melodic, but not too melodic (haha). I still always need to keep the groove and drive for the clubs.
4. We are now in the era of AI. The way it’s evolving, it does create fear as well as optimismIf an AI can perfectly replicate a ‘Simon-style’ chord progression, what is the one human element in your production process that you believe a machine can never truly mimic?
I think the groove will be hardest for AI to replicate. Groove is based on small imperfections in timing which humans understand and feel naturally but is in a sense the opposite of AI and robotics which strive for perfection.
5. You’ve spoken before about the importance of groove in dance music. Do you think that’s something that’s becoming harder to preserve in an era dominated by viral moments and short-form content?
Yes, definitely. However, I think we are starting to see a turn in music again where more underground artists are rebelling against that mentality and focusing on more stripped back dance music.
6. We often hear about musical influences, but inspiration can come from anywhere. If you had to name three artists or individuals who have been instrumental in shaping your perspective on music and creativity, who would they be, and why?
Black Box (90s dance music group that got me started) Hot Since 82 ( has been a big influence on my sound and style ) Dr. Dre (I grew up also listening to hip hop)
Thank you, Simon, for taking the time to speak with us. We wish you all the best for the rest of your tour and look forward to seeing you back in India soon.
Cheers Guys!!
