Being a TSS fan favorite since first popping onto the scene back in 2013, Riot Ten has become a household name in the world of dubstep and continues to remain in the stoplight with a steady barrage of releases. This Texan is never one to make bass music lovers wait too long in between releases with his latest offering being “Feral” which serves as a his debut on the electronic dance music powerhouse label, Monstercat.
With his merciless standout single “Rail Breaker” still in heavy rotation being a timeless bass anthem that ignites crowds wherever it pops up, Riot Ten continues to push the genre forward with each and every release while allowing his sound to evolve every step of the way. That would explain why he’s able to stay one step ahead of the competition in addition to having a career spanning over about a decade now.
Currently unleashing his fury on the biggest festival and club crowds across the world, we took the time to catch up with Riot Ten to discuss the past, present, and future.
Check out our interview with the dubstep don below!
Riot Ten – Feral | Download |
TSS: The bass music scene has changed quite a bit since you first popped onto the scene, what are some changes you’ve noticed over the years?
Riot Ten: Well, when I first entered the scene, trap was massive and really felt like it was the driving force. Fast forward a few years and it was like a changing of the guard – dubstep reclaiming the throne and never looking back. But music is constantly evolving and bass music is no exception. It’s so incredible to see and be a part of. At the moment, I love seeing this new generation of trap making waves and DNB is finally getting some much due recognition in the US.
TSS: How would you say your sound has evolved since the release of “Lock N Load” almost twelve years ago?
Riot Ten: I’d like to say its evolved in every way, shape or form. My sound design ability is so much cleaner, mix downs are stronger, and I think just the song writing in general is better. I like to listen to my old music and see just how far I’ve come.
TSS: What has been the key to success and longevity?
Riot Ten: Honestly, the love of music! That passion has never once left me. And having a team who shares the same goals and who helps to push me (or reel it back in) when I need it most. It’s been a team effort all around.
TSS: What hardware and software do you use these days in the studio?
Riot Ten: For hardware I use a PC, an M-Audio Midi Keyboard, Yamaha Audio Interface, and JBL Studio Monitors. For software I use FL Studio along with Serum and Nexus as my main VSTs.
TSS: You seem to be always pumping out new music more often than not. Where do you find inspiration?
Riot Ten: I listen to so many different genres of music every day that I feel I have to attribute it to that. It also helps me create different genres so my mind is constantly working. I do put out a ton of music, but the truth is I’m not exempt from writer’s block. It’s just that when I do catch a groove, I’m non-stop.
TSS: You collaborate a lot with other artists. Why do you choose to go that route as a producer? How would you say it enhanced your career?
Riot Ten: I think collaborating with artists really gets the juices going and opens things up. I wasn’t always that way, but I just love how an idea develops when multiple heads are on a song together. Opening up that file after another artist has added to a song you sent over is so much fun.
TSS: When you have a rough week or hit a wall creatively, how do you get back on track?
Riot Ten: I take some time off and play video games. Haha I’ve taken 2 weeks off at a time and it has worked well for me. Music should always be fun, not stressful. So as soon as I feel the burden coming on, I simply take a step back and let it breathe.
TSS: You recently went viral on TikTok with “i hate edm” which was just something you cooked up for fun, how was that experience?
Riot Ten: Was surprising but definitely fun (and funny). That has never really happened to me before, so it was a new process. Couldn’t be happier with how it turned out and was super stoked that we could release the song officially.
TSS: What words of wisdom do you have for up-and-coming producers looking to make their presence felt who may be overwhelmed by the current state of the music industry?
Riot Ten: Just keep going. Take some time off to gather peace, inspiration, and ideas. And come back ready to go. Don’t listen to hate comments – I know it’s hard, but your opinion of yourself is so much more valuable than that of anyone else. Most of all, don’t forget why you started in the first place – because it’s fun & you love to create.
TSS: Tell us a little bit about your bone-rattling new single “Feral” and how it came together.
Riot Ten: It had been a while since I made something so heavy and I wanted to give the fans what they love most about my music. I actually spent about 3-4 months on this track before I was content with it.
TSS: How does it feel to continue to have releases on the powerhouse imprint that is Monstercat?
Riot Ten: It’s always been a goal of mine to release on Monstercat- so I feel very accomplished! It was a proud moment when we inked the deal. Monstercat has been so great to work with so far and I hope we can continue together for many projects to come.
TSS: Now that 2024 is underway, what does Riot Ten have in store for the future?
Riot Ten: I’m just going to continue to try and put out my best work and strive to be the best artist, performer, father, partner, and friend I can be. A big Fall tour is in the works as well + a full EP in July. A lot to look forward to this year!
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