We got a chance to catch up with Bali, a west-coast duo on the rise.
Real Names: Ahmad & Ankit
Ages: 22 & 21
From: Champaign Illinois & Santa Barbara California
Electric State Interview
Inspiration to get into EDM?
Electric State
We both attended Insomniac's Countdown NYE in 2020 and fell in love on the spot. We saw artists like Galantis and Alesso at the mainstage and we were hooked. After that we dove deep into the genre falling in love with house and tech house through artists like John Summit, Kyle Walker, and Westend.
Bali
Why did you want to become a DJ?
Electric State
Seeing the crowd reactions at Countdown, we knew we wanted to bee on that stage someday. Seeing the impact of electronic music on everyone there made us know we wanted to be a part of this movement and share our creative vision for years to come.
Bali
Favorite Genre prior to EDM? Emotional similarity to genres?
Electric State
I (Ahmad) personally grew up listening to disco through my parents which I think eventually evolved into a love of house. But we both listened to a lot of rap together in high school.
Bali
A tip for someone experiencing a creative block?
Electric State
Find inspiration in other's music. Don't directly copy anything but finding inspiration or things you like from other songs (especially in different genres) will help bring about new ideas.
Bali
Is/Was your family supportive of your career in music?
Electric State
Yes, but only once the music quality got good lol
Bali
Next step or goal?
Electric State
To continue sharing our music and eventually leverage that into a nationwide tour.
Bali
Do you work better in routine or chaos?
Electric State
routine
Bali
Any favorite touring food spots? - city specific?
Electric State
Crown Public House in the heart of downtown Phoenix!!
Bali
In what order do you put articles of clothing on?
Electric State
Boxers, pants, shirt, socks, shoes
Bali
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? No restrictions.
Electric State
Hopefully a global touring DJ with our own label/imprint to keep promoting our sound/creative vision.
Bali
Strangest addiction?
Electric State
Browsing for new sample packs and VSTs lol
Bali
What does being an artist mean to you?
Electric State
Being able to create and share your art with the world. Someone once said there's no amount of money you can pay a creative to stop creating, and I think that's what being an artist is all about. Creating art for the world.
Bali
The last time you cried tears of joy?
Electric State
When we signed over our track "Zimbabwe" to Nervous Records
Bali
Most overlooked production quality being released right now?
Electric State
I think consistency, as long as you work everyday and keep improving, eventually the results will come.
Bali
Who inspired you - not an artist someone you personally know?
Electric State
My Mom, she's one of those people that can hear a song and just play it on the Piano without a notes sheet. She's always believed in me and I just want to make her proud.
Bali
The journey of building something can be the most beautiful part - is that true with your music career?
Electric State
Absolutely, we always try to find joy in the journey and trust the process. We both believe in ourselves and our sound and are excited to continue growing as artists.
Bali
Upcoming Shows or Releases you're excited about?
Electric State
We have a song "Sun Goes Down" coming out on Groovy Bone Records on August 25th!!
Bali
