Let the waves and Nicky Romero move you at Sunsets Festival

IT'S THE FREE beach fest everyone now awaits with baited breath and 2018's edition looks set blow your socks off. The Corona Sunsets Festival is taking place at its usual home of Barasti Beach from October 25 to 27. Complete with the tagline, 'Let the waves move you', two of the biggest international headliners are ready to salute the sun and bring their energy to the shores. DJs Sam Feldt and Nicky Romero will provide the renowned beats, but there are also act and entertainments to get you going all day every day. The venue will be transformed into an organic, open-air gallery using bamboo to create artistic structures made entirely out of sustainable materials. An open BBQ will be sizzling away with a mouth-watering line-up of dishes.
Upcycle your wardrobe with OHOY SWIM made from recycled fishing nets and other plastics collected from the ocean and other eco-offerings including reclaimed wooden sunglasses from Wildwood. Immerse yourself in the live art made from recycled waste and sign up to the 30-day pledge by going totally plastic-free before discovering the various eco-friendly body art and glitter painting stations.
We spoke to DJ Nicky Romero, who will blast out number one hits including I Could Be The One when he takes to the stage on the Friday night, to find out his thoughts.
How does it feel to be playing the Sunsets Festival over here in Dubai?
I love visiting and performing in Dubai, it's one of my favourite cities on the planet and I'm excited to see all of the fans and their reactions to my new music.
What is the UAE's reputation in the DJ community?
The culture is incredible so everyone loves to perform there. People from all over the world gather in Dubai and the setting is unlike any other place I've travelled.
Where is the best place to perform?
Festivals are my favourite setting.especially during a sunset slot. There's an energy during festivals that can't be replicated at any other type of show.
Are you positive about the future of dance and electronic music? What would you like to see change?
Yes of course. It's important for us all to keep innovating and pushing boundaries. Collaboration has always been a fundamental of this genre and I hope to keep reaching out to artists of different styles and creating great music.
How has your own style evolved over the years?
I've enjoyed pushing myself and working with artists from different genres and different parts of the world. As you grow and travel you're naturally inspired by the people you meet and artists you work with.
What are you currently working on?
I'm working on loads of new songs with friends: W&W, Afrojack, David Guetta, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano and definitely my own new clothing brand 'PRTCL' which I'm proud to present. More on shop.nickyromero.com
Do you think the time when you broke out was the optimum time for your music or would you like to be starting out today?
I've been very fortunate in my career. I've seen many different periods in dance music and watched people come and go. I'm happy that I still love what I do and the creation of music. I don't think that will change any time soon. Social media is an incredible tool to reach my fans and create a real connection.
What would your advice be for anyone trying to get into the industry?
Patience. Careers are a marathon, not a sprint. It's important to stay true to yourself and never be afraid to try something new.
Who do you credit as influences and who are you listening to at the moment?
Armin, David Guetta, Tiesto are all pioneers and huge influences. I'm also really excited about the success of Martin Garrix. He's been a friend since the beginning and I'm inspired by his success and positivity.
david@khaleejtimes.com