Formula E’s DJ EJ recently spoke to Beyond the Flag about a variety of topics from Formula E racing itself to hyping up the crowd ahead of each race.
We recently had the chance to talk to EJ, the official DJ for Formula E, about a variety of topics pertaining to Formula E, including the racing itself, his unique experiences as the sport’s official DJ and a lot more! Thank you again to DJ EJ for being willing to do this interview!
Here is what EJ had to say in this exclusive Q&A-style interview.
Beyond the Flag: How did you start doing what you do?
EJ: I’ve always had a love from a young age of electronic music. I think growing up in London had a big influence on that and then later on, I was lucky enough to work with the Ministry of Sound team. I’ve been involved in the industry in different capacities, but when I started producing, I knew this was a path I wanted to take.
BTF: How did that lead you to get involved in Formula E, especially since you’ve been there from the start?
EJ: Well, I was heading up the DJ team at Ministry back in 2013, which basically meant I worked in supplying a team of artists to Ministry events all over the world. It was really more a twist of fate as we had a client wanting to discuss the possibility of opening up a club with our roster in Dubai. He then inquired about his cousin setting up an all-new electronic racing championship.
They wanted music to play a big role, to be exciting, to add another dimension – which was where I stepped in, not just playing at the events but also acting as a sort of Head of Music, liaising, overseeing and bringing the party to some insane cities! The rest is history, as they say!
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BTF: As you travel from country to country for each race, do you typically find the crowds to have the same level of enthusiasm, or is it different in certain countries?
EJ: Yeah I do notice differences but I think that’s more cultural rather than the audiences not being enthusiastic or up for it! I always try to make everyone dance and bring the EJ experience as part of the day. That’s the amazing thing, music is universal wherever you are in the world and whatever language you speak.
BTF: What are some of the records that you’ve broken?
EJ: Being the first ever DJ to play to a crowd of both dancing men and women in Saudi Arabia, truly an honor!
BTF: What was the experience like to be the first DJ to ever play in Saudi Arabia?
EJ: Crazy! I was the first DJ to play to a dancing crowd of both men and women over there. It felt amazing to be part of something so forward-facing in the progressions of Saudi Arabia!
BTF: Do you get the chance to do a lot of interaction with the drivers through your work?
EJ: Yeah, for sure! I could tell you a guilty pleasure track or two from some of the drivers…
BTF: Prior to getting involved in Formula E, did you have a major interest in motor racing or that just kind of where you ended up?
EJ: I did but because it was pre-Formula E, I’d watch Formula 1 as the more dominant sport – but I never thought I’d be part of the team. Isn’t it crazy how things turn out?
BTF: Do you now follow any kind of motor racing aside of Formula E?
EJ: Yes, both FE and F1!
BTF: What is one thing that you think Formula E fans should know about you and what you bring to each race?
EJ: My whole aim is to make people happy and make a day at the races a real experience. People think you just show up, get your seat, enjoy the race and go home, but we implement so much thought and planning into making it more than that. Expect huge anthems and cross your fingers that the weather stays on our side!
BTF: Any championship (team and driver) predictions for this year? Thank you for your time!
EJ: It’s really open this year with I think Jean-Eric Vergne being the only driver to win twice [through nine of 13 races]. The other races have all been different drivers. Everything is to play for, but if you want an answer I think Vergne and [DS] Techeetah are going to sneak it again for the second year running.
A total of 10 races on the 13-race 2018-2019 Formula E schedule have now been completed, and the season’s 11th race, the Bern ePrix, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 22 at Bern Street Circuit in Bern, Switzerland.