Judge Jules to play in Abu Dhabi this weekend

The legendary DJ who is performing in Abu Dhabi tomorrow promises an energetic night replete with new and classic tunes

By Michael Gomes

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Published: Thu 31 Jan 2019, 10:05 AM

Last updated: Sun 3 Feb 2019, 8:56 AM

Judge Jules. An apt name for the legendary DJ who also happens to be a practising lawyer. A superstar in the dance music industry, Judge Jules has ruled the dance-floors of the world for more than three decades and is a revered name in Ibiza where he has performed for as many years.
Though Jules, whose real name is Julius O'Riordan, straddles two worlds (music and law), he is a thoroughly organised professional and easily manages to balance twin careers. "You have to be super organised and capable of spinning multiple plates," Jules explains.
A regular visitor to Dubai, the veteran British DJ finds the UAE an intriguing place due to the continuous pace of development and the fast-changing landscape. But as always, he's excited about coming here. "This is only my second visit to Abu Dhabi so I'm looking forward to returning," he adds, as he tells fans to prepare for a night of new tunes and old favourites.
We caught up with the EDM star ahead of his show in Casa De Cuba, Abu Dhabi tomorrow to know more about his music, juggling twin careers and what clubbers can expect at his Abu Dhabi gig. Excerpts from the interview:
Jules, it's great to have you back. So what plans do you have for your gig in Abu Dhabi?
I've played in the UAE many times, but this is only my second visit to Abu Dhabi, so I'm looking forward to it. Clubbers can expect one of my usual sets - plenty of energy and exclusive edits of new tunes and some old favourites, too.
What's the best thing you like about the UAE?
For someone who visits (the UAE) regularly, it has to be the fact that the landscape changes so quickly. Changes that would take 10 years in London occur in 6 months in the UAE, so it is always an intriguing place to travel to.
How do you usually prepare for a gig?
I don't have any rituals before a show, just lots of preparation. It's essential to know your tunes well - it takes more than just turning up with records you currently think are good. You need to know your record box inside out and the effect each individual track will have.
The music scene has changed a lot since you started off, how do you keep your music relevant to changing tastes?
At my many gigs, I'm constantly auditioning new tracks. Gigs are the litmus paper and I'm constantly refining my set to ensure it's totally up to speed with "now".
Name one tune in your set that has never failed to generate energy on the dance floor?
It's an old one: Camisra - Let Me Show You. This track works for both old and young crowds with equal explosion.
Did making a biopic/biography ever cross your mind?
As well as being a DJ, I'm also a lawyer (specialising in music-related deals and disputes). Suffice to say, the stories that would make the best bits of a biography are not really appropriate to be told by someone in that position.
DJing and working as an entertainment lawyer. How do you juggle both careers?
You have to be super organised and capable of spinning multiple plates. I do a lot of my legal work whilst on the go, plus I have a full-time PA who helps me with my DJ work - sorting through promos and keeping on top of new music is almost a full-time job in itself.
Does being a lawyer help you as a DJ?
Very much so. Being a lawyer in the music business requires one to understand the industry better than anyone. It's about more than just drafting contracts and navigating disputes - you need to be very much on top of what's happening in the 'business' side of the music industry. That knowledge helps one make the right strategic decisions as a DJ. After all, it is a business, albeit one that's huge fun.
Name the most memorable gig you ever played?
It would have to be in the desert in Egypt, right in front of the Pyramids of Giza. It would be impossible to find a more iconic spot (for a concert).
Tell us something about Ibiza that we don't know already?
This is a difficult one as the island is so well covered in the press these days. One place I always recommend is a café called Can Tixedo, which serves a high quality international-fusion Tapas style menu in art cafe setting.
Thirty years performing all around the world, what does it take to remain fit and be on top of your game?
It's always been about avoiding burning the candle at both ends. I'll always arrive early before a gig, hang out and enjoy the party, but once I've played, I rarely stick around for long afterwards.
What are your thoughts on the late DJ Avcii? Do you feel his loss?
Avicii was one of the true talents in dance music. His tragic story demonstrates how important it is that a duty of care is provided by those supporting an artist behind the scenes.
When not DJing, what do you listen to?
Mostly chill out tunes. Much of 'chill out' is basically dance music without the beats, so it's tailor-made for those lazy moments.
Rapid Round with Jules:
A song that lifts you up when you're feeling down
Lovestation's Teardrops
A tune that takes you back to your childhood
The Clash's London Calling
A track that makes you dance, wherever you are at
Energy 52's Café Del Mar
A song that describes you best
Good Shot by Hands Burn
A concert you'd never miss out on
The Acid House reunion
Show details:
. When: Friday, February 1
. Where: Casa De Cuba, Yas Marina, Yas Island
. Contact: Call 056 7427435 or visit eat@casadecubaauh.com
micheal@khaleejtimes.com 

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