OIL CLUB Shenzhen, China – the collective interview with the residents / Pictures by KEYI STUDIO

We were quite lucky to have known the place almost from its inception in 2017, when we were partly based in Shenzhen and had the pleasure of visiting regularly, discovering the venue from its fresh start. With its elegant concrete design, top-notch drinks, and eye-catching DJ lineups, we’re excited to see where Oil Club will go from here. Meet the residents and co-founder Sun Huiyuan, aka Shy Beef, as they share more about their personal stories connected to the venue and the music that brought them together and continues to drive them forward.

SHY BEEF

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

It’s hard to imagine that during the first two years of OIL (2017-2019), I barely knew how to DJ. In February 2020, with the pandemic disrupting everything, I launched a new project called FAR Radio—an online audio-visual community radio station—hoping to keep people connected through music while the club was closed. During its operation, interacting with others motivated me to finally learn how to DJ. Of course, the closure of OIL gave me the time and space to really focus on learning and practicing.
Two months later, OIL reopened, but with international artists unable to enter the country, I had to rely on local artists and DJs when curating shows. At the time, the music scene in Shenzhen was still quite nascent, and there weren’t many skilled DJs, especially for slots like warmup and closing sets, where maintaining freshness was key but finding suitable talent was difficult. So, sometimes I would step in myself or bring in a few beginner DJs to fill those gaps.
As the exchange programs within China’s club scene started to take off, I began leading talented local DJs on tours to other cities. This was also my first time performing at clubs outside of OIL, and it was during this period that the OIL Soundsystem began to take shape.
I play different music depending on the space, time, equipment, atmosphere, and crowd. I aim for my music to be forward-thinking and unique, but at the same time, I want it to connect with the people present. It’s a constant balance of adjusting and experimenting. This pursuit of “balance” is not only a core element of my musical exploration but also reflects my approach to doing everything well.

How did your story with the founding the OIL CLUB look like?

It’s hard to believe, but before founding OIL, I had never been involved in the industry nor organized any parties. I moved to Shenzhen 11 years ago, and despite a population of over 15 million, the city didn’t have a single underground club or venue dedicated to dance music. Across China, Shenzhen was often mockingly referred to as a “cultural desert.” In those early years, I spent my weekends hopping between illegal underground parties, commercial nightclubs, and bars, trying to find something unique in club music. But almost every time, I left disappointed by the dull music. I kept thinking, Shenzhen needs a club that truly values music.
Then, a nearly 1,000-person rave in Shenzhen was shut down by the government. The police raided the event, taking over 500 people to the station for drug testing or detention, and soon after, any form of outdoor or warehouse parties were banned. The music scene fell into silence, and at one point, I couldn’t find any interesting parties at all. After a trip to London, something in me and my friend Yangyang seemed to awaken. When we returned, we decided to open a club of our own, one that would bring the best and most forward-thinking club music to Shenzhen, digging deep into this “cultural desert” in the hopes of finding “oil” and eventually creating an oasis in the city.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

I hope to carve out more time from the daily operations and event planning at the club to focus more on music. While I don’t expect to get back into producing, I am very eager to have more opportunities to DJ for different audiences around the world. This past July, I performed at Herrensauna’s PRIDEFEST at RSO in Berlin and just wrapped up a small tour in Asia, experiences I truly enjoyed, which further solidified my direction as a DJ.
At the same time, I want to create more opportunities for members of OIL Soundsystem taking them to perform in new places. Additionally, I plan to start producing and releasing music for local artists, helping their sounds reach a wider audience.
If I had to outline the next 10 years, I hope to live and work in multiple cities, spending at least half of each year in two or three regular locations, with the rest of the time spent exploring different parts of the world.

WARMCHAINSS

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

From childhood to college graduation, I studied instruments like the piano and euphonium. However, after graduation, my passion for music deepened, and I began exploring different music genres, including experimental music and others. A defining moment occurred during an ordinary evening at a commercial pub with classmates, where I realized that my interest in nightlife was not just about socializing but also about discovering suitable music. I found myself paying more attention to the music played at the pub, feeling that it was very dull and unsettling. I also lacked interest in the drinking and drinking games at the tables. This realization gave me a better understanding of myself in terms of music and nightlife. The connection between music and nightlife holds personal significance for me. This led me to delve into the underground electronic music scene and connect with like-minded people. At that time, Shenzhen lacked suitable venues for underground events, so there were often DIY party activities. It was during this time that I met Huiyuan and Yangyang (founders of OIL Club in Shenzhen). After being a club kid for a few years, I decided to move to Shanghai in search of more inspiring scenes.
In Shanghai, I had more opportunities to explore different music genres, and it was a quite experimental environment where everyone was very active and free to create. After getting inspired by local radio stations like Berlin Community Radio (R.I.P.) and NTS, among others, my friends and I established Shanghai Community Radio. Located in the non-profit art space Basement 6, this experience marked the beginning of my official entry into the music scene domain.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

Before OIL opened, I was invited back from Shanghai by Huiyuan and Yangyang who hired me as a music editor for events at OIL Club. At that time, finding suitable support DJs for OIL was not easy. It was fortunate that Huiyuan encouraged me and Rose, the PR at OIL, to start learning DJ techniques ourselves. In early 2018, during the first open decks event organized to help local new DJs, Rose and I became the first group of new DJs in the open decks series. In the following years, I continually became a resident DJ at OIL, further advancing my musical journey.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

Right now, I am focusing on working hard and managing my e-bike side business while also honing my DJ skills. The main goal is to save enough money to support more opportunities for performances or tours abroad and to dedicate more time to producing. In the next ten years, I hope to be fortunate enough to make music my main profession (although this is quite idealistic in China, and many friends have advised me against it, haha). However, regardless of the final outcome, I aspire to become an excellent and professional DJ who can also produce ambient and experimental music. I enjoy sharing the joy of music, providing unforgettable experiences for people, and meeting many sincere and like-minded musicians. Anyway, I hope that in ten years, I will still be someone who keeps a pure passion for music.

SIRENS

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

As one of the earliest residents of OIL, I was fortunate to connect with everyone early on. However, at that time, I didn’t know much about electronic music. I loved music, parties, and the dance floor, but I never imagined becoming a DJ. I was initially heavily influenced by bands and always thought that one day I’d form my own. But as time went on, I ended up starting both a band and DJing almost in the same year. It felt like I was finally ready to express myself through music. I wasn’t concerned with any hierarchy or sense of superiority; I simply wanted to explore different creative fields. Whether it’s DJing as Sirens or performing with my band Siren’s Lighthouse, both serve as tools for expressing different sides of myself. (At the time, I also wanted to form an electronic music duo, but I couldn’t find the right partner). The first time I touched a CDJ and played music was when I went to Steve Pan to experiment with electronic music. It may have only lasted a few minutes, but I found it pretty interesting, and that’s how I started DJing.
My initial inspiration came from the mythological figure of the Sirens—they don’t quite belong to the modern world and evoke a more psychedelic, classical atmosphere, intertwined with sounds from a more primitive era. The band’s earliest work was inspired by a fantasy about the Siren’s death. As for DJing, it centers around the story of what happens to the Siren’s sisters after her death, which led to the creation of Sirens, embarking on an adventure into the unknown. My DJ sets often include exotic melodies and primitive percussion. Even now, despite external influences, I still secretly hope that my music can bring this imagined, fictional story to life—a romantic, narrative-driven journey of self-discovery.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

SHY BEEF has always encouraged me to start DJing, and returning to OIL in this new role definitely feels different. For many of us, this place holds so many of our shared experiences. We grew up here, and we call it “home.” During my time here, I received a lot of support and companionship. Now, when I return to OIL to DJ, there’s a sense of “relief,” but it also comes with more complex emotions, haha.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

In addition to DJing, I plan to continue exploring different forms of creative expression. Last year, I began experimenting with ambient and experimental music on my own. This year, I’ve started writing new songs in Chinese with my band (our previous songs were all in English). This shift began when I collaborated with Le Motel as a vocalist on an ambient track. After talking, we decided to use Chinese lyrics, which was my first experience writing and singing in my own language. Since then, I’ve been inspired to keep writing more Chinese songs. I’m excited to finish the new album with my band as soon as possible, and I’m also looking forward to collaborating with more artists and musicians in the future. Ultimately, I want to continue freely exploring my identity through music.
I know where I want to go right now, but I can’t say where I hope to be in ten years. In the end, the location may not matter as much as the people in my life. 
Back around four years ago, I was traveling in India, and that’s where the music for this release came to life. This release is a mirror of those times when I was just living the art, culture, and vibes there. Every sound tells a story of that journey.

SAM LAI

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

When 2011 in Shenzhen, there were very few good music parties in this city. Then I just want to start being a DJ, share some music in a party. And then, started collection and digging.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

I think I was the first DJ play at OIL(please check with the owner if I am wrong :), I remember it’s a test party before OIL’s opening. Then I just play and test the scene, 7year passed so quickly.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

A party is a party, I would like to let the crowd feel like they are in a party, not a music event. A good party will totally change your life, and a DJ should have this ability to build up your own dancefloor. That’s what I would do in the future.

BETA LAVA

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

Before I started DJing, I was the lead singer of a metal band, and for a long time, I was deeply captivated by the feeling of being on stage. However, due to some unavoidable circumstances, the band was forced to disband. My daily life became unbearably dull, which led me into a state of confusion that I struggled to escape. Around the same time, though, I was introduced to electronic music and began attending all kinds of parties every weekend with an amazing group of friends. Eventually, with the opening of OIL, I decided to step onto the DJ stage.
As for inspiration, it mostly comes from very personal ‘emotional cues,’ using a more emotional approach to express my mental state at the time and seeking resonance. For example, feelings of frenzy or melancholy.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

My journey as a DJ began at OIL, and in many ways, it has been part of my growth over the past six years—from being a complete rookie to where I am now (though I still feel like a rookie, haha). Over time, I’ve watched the crowd on OIL’s dance floor become more diverse and dynamic. I’ve also had the unique opportunity to meet artists who once were just voices in my headphones, which has been an incredibly rare and exciting experience. Most importantly, starting my DJ career at OIL has been nothing short of amazing.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

At present, my most important plan is to manage my personal radio station effectively. Compared to serving the dance floor, running a personal radio station offers a more intimate form of emotional expression, allowing me to communicate systematically through DJ sets. I’m working hard to perfect this. At the same time, I’m seeking opportunities to perform on larger stages, such as Boiler Room or similar events. After all, I’ve always enjoyed the feeling of being on stage, so I’m putting in the effort and preparation to make that happen.
As for the next ten years, I don’t have a clear ‘destination.’ For now, I’m focused on enjoying what I’m doing, gaining more attention for my DJ career, and working towards that. For me, that might be enough.

MINGO

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

I’ve always been a music junkie, constantly collecting tunes. Before diving into electronic music, I was heavily influenced by rock, world music, and experimental sounds, all of which have shaped my style today. These genres taught me the importance of musical storytelling and emotional expression, which I strive to incorporate into my sets.
One day, I decided to add some excitement to my life by becoming a DJ. With a lack of good music events around, I took the plunge. I began by spinning at friends’ house parties. These intimate gatherings gave me the perfect opportunity to experiment with different sounds and styles. I enjoyed the immediate feedback and energy from the small crowds, which only fueled my passion further.
Then, a friend introduced me to DJing at OIL, and that’s how my journey began on a larger scale. OIL had a more professional setup and a diverse audience, which challenged me to refine my skills and broaden my musical repertoire. I’m drawn to alternative sounds, and these influences are evident in my current work. I love mixing genres and creating unexpected transitions that keep the audience engaged. Whether it’s a pulsating electronic beat or an eclectic world music track, I strive to create a unique auditory experience that resonates with my listeners.
My journey as a DJ is fueled by a constant search for new sounds and the joy of sharing them with others. Every set is a new adventure, a chance to connect with people through the universal language of music. This passion for discovery and connection is what inspires me every day.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start? 

My first gig at OIL came through a friend’s introduction at an event. I had been regularly attending OIL’s parties, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and diverse music. It was at one of these events that I got the chance to perform. The initial experience was exhilarating; the crowd’s energy was infectious, and I knew I wanted to be a part of this scene.
I became a regular at their parties, gradually getting more opportunities to DJ there. Each performance helped me build confidence and refine my style. The management at OIL recognized my passion and dedication, offering me more slots and eventually a residency. Becoming a part of the OIL soundsystem was a significant milestone in my career. It allowed me to connect with other talented DJs and musicians, learn from them, and further develop my skills.
The residency also provided me with a platform to experiment with different genres and set structures, which has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the chance to play for diverse audiences, each with their unique tastes and expectations. This diversity has pushed me to be more versatile and innovative in my approach. My story with OIL is one of growth, learning, and endless musical exploration. It has been an incredible experience, shaping me into the DJ I am today.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

I aim to become a better DJ and have been working on producing my own tracks, hoping to release them soon. While I have big dreams for the future, I can’t ignore the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. The local music scene is often restricted by various limitations, and it’s difficult to predict how it will evolve. Despite these challenges, I remain committed to my passion for music and hope to find ways to navigate through the obstacles.
In ten years, I see myself still being a dedicated music lover, though the path might be different from what I envision now. I hope to have established myself as a great DJ and producer. I’m planning to immerse myself in the European music scene, which has always been a source of inspiration for me. The diversity and richness of Europe’s music culture offer endless opportunities for growth and collaboration. But I also understand that entering a new scene can be challenging, and success is not guaranteed.
Who knows what the future holds? It might not be the perfect picture I’ve painted in my dreams, but it will definitely be beyond imagination, I’m determined to keep pushing forward. I’ll continue to explore new sounds and stay true to my passion. Even if the reality is harsher than expected, the love for music will always drive me to create and share.

DJ 86

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

To be honest, my introduction to electronic music began in the summer of 2010 with the album My Name is Skrillex. Growing up, I wasn’t fond of the popular Mandarin classics of the time, so I became intrigued by everything related to electronic music. When I reached high school, I saw many of the so-called top 100 DJs performing at Tomorrowland 2014, and I felt an irresistible urge to learn DJing and music production. However, I couldn’t afford DJ equipment, so I turned to watching DJing videos on YouTube and Bilibili. I meticulously analyzed each button’s function frame by frame. I even constructed a mini DJ controller out of cardboard and thumbtacks, using a candy tin from Woogie as my turntable, and would put on headphones to simulate DJing.
I also frequently used FL Studio to create simple tracks, saved them on a USB stick, and fantasized about my music being recognized. At that time, I was somewhat well-known as a DJ at school.
Gradually, I began neglecting my studies and would sneak out at night with friends to attend warehouse parties and nightclubs. Eventually, I had the opportunity to perform at the Sector Underground Stage. Despite my extensive preparation, I ended up ruining the party because I was unfamiliar with the CDJ setup. From that point on, I made it a priority to be in the front row at events, observing and learning from every DJ’s techniques. Later, I secured a residency at Paper Club, officially launching my DJ career. After seven years of dedication, starting from 2010, I finally became a DJ in the truest sense. My passion for electronic music remains as strong as ever.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

In June 2018, my friends and I stepped into OIL for the first time without having seen any promotional material beforehand. It was my first encounter with authentic bass music. That night, Goth Trad was performing, though we didn’t know him then. We only knew that his bass shattered the glass at OIL in the early hours. That experience transformed my view of electronic music and sparked a deep fascination with Dubstep and UK Bass. I realized that what I had known about electronic music was merely the tip of the iceberg. The atmosphere on the dance floor and the dim lighting captivated me, and I understood that this was the vibe I had been searching for.
Inspired by this revelation, I, along with some senior classmates, launched my first label—D1SG0V3RNMENT. It became our refuge from mainstream music and the prevailing political climate. This connection led me to OIL as a promoter. OIL’s owners, Huiyuan and Yangyang, provided invaluable support and encouragement. At that time, OIL was initiating The Soy Sauce Project, a program designed to discover local promoters. Thus, we hosted our first party at OIL. On January 31, 2019, we named our event after a street food area near our university.
We had no strict requirements for the music style at our parties; as long as it wasn’t mainstream EDM, we were open to it. I remember our inaugural party drew over 100 people—considered a full house for a Sunday—and the dance floor was packed. We learned firsthand that “non-mainstream music” could also make people dance. Over time, attending OIL every weekend became my greatest pleasure. I eagerly absorbed every DJ’s music and techniques, which inspired me to incorporate a hybrid approach in my own DJing. This is why I enjoy hybrid DJing—it allows me to blend various music styles within a single set, keeping the experience dynamic and exciting.
Later, I regularly performed at OIL Pres and other promoter events. Today, I am not only a member of the OIL Soundsystem but also handle booking and product management for OIL. I often describe this as the happiest job in the world, with each day bringing new and fresh experiences. At the beginning of 2023, I revived my old label D1S and have been hosting monthly parties at OIL while leaving our mark on various global music platforms.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

I have been deeply committed to discovering and promoting local artists, with the goal of bringing unique sounds from our scene to the global electronic music industry. While North America is known for Footwork, Chicago House, and Detroit Techno, South America offers Latino Sound and distinct Colombian and Brazilian influences. Europe is renowned for UK Bass, Drum and Bass, and Techno, and Africa contributes with Afrodance, Kuduro, and Amapiano. Yet, in Asia, while Southeast Asia receives significant attention, East Asia—particularly China—often remains overlooked. My hope is to see more Chinese artists create unique sounds that represent East Asia and to introduce high-quality local talent to a global audience.
Achieving this is currently very challenging in mainland China. As a promoter and club staff member, I understand the difficulties of navigating the cultural landscape here. We face numerous restrictions from the government and traditional cultural norms, which make bold innovation a rare luxury. In my role as a booker for OIL, I frequently explore the operational systems of booking agencies and artist collectives from around the world, discussing these topics through emails and conversations with international artists. My goal is to adapt these successful systems to the Chinese market, enhancing the development of electronic music culture in China.
Local Chinese artists rarely make it to the global stage due to several obstacles: the difficulties of international travel with Chinese passports, a lack of distinctive cultural characteristics among local artists, and the absence of organized infrastructure in this field within China. I aim to leverage my label and the outstanding platform provided by OIL, starting from Shenzhen, to make a significant contribution to electronic music culture in China, Asia, and beyond.

FATALIS

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

Before entering the club scene, during my university years and the two years following graduation, I maintained a deep passion for exploring dance music. I would listen repeatedly to the music and mixes of some of the artists and DJs I greatly admired, trying to understand their ideas as much as possible. For example, I listened to one of Paul Woolford’s CD mixes possibly hundreds of times; his choice of dance tracks and the way he controlled the flow of the set greatly inspired me and continues to influence me to this day.
Through the internet, I met many friends who shared the same love for music, and we kept in close contact, often sharing our own mixtapes. After OIL Club opened, it became our go-to place to meet in person and discuss music. However, at that time, I wasn’t a DJ in the strict sense. It wasn’t until 2020 that I felt I was finally ready, so my friends and I signed up to participate in one of OIL Club’s open decks events. That night, the club’s co-founder, Shy Beef, happened to be there. After hearing me play for an hour, he invited me to DJ in the main hall on a weekday the following month. From then on, I began getting more and more opportunities to perform. 

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

Playing music in public was vastly different from what I had imagined while practicing in my bedroom. None of my previous experiences seemed helpful, and I had to relearn everything from scratch. I feel like I was luckier than I deserved — despite the challenges of DJing in a club during the pandemic, everything progressed very smoothly for me. I quickly became a member of the OIL Soundsystem, which allowed me to refine my skills and test the depth of my music library through various themed events and time slots. It’s worth mentioning that OIL has a much greater tolerance for diverse music genres than most other places in China. This gave me the freedom to experiment and play more of the music I truly love.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

I believe that club life today is full of uncertainties, with constant turnover in the crowd. Many friends who used to party or perform with me years ago have either left the city or gradually distanced themselves from the club scene. In short, every year can look dramatically different from the last, and it’s impossible to predict what will happen.
I’m neither willing nor able to imagine what things will be like in ten years. Aside from maintaining my passion for exploring music and DJing, all I can do is make sure everyone—whether it’s casual dancers or fellow DJs and musicians—enjoys the music I play. For me, that’s the most important thing.

NEBULAE

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

Music has always been an essential part of my life, often transporting me to a mysterious, almost otherworldly space. About six years ago, when I first visited OIL, I walked through its perfectly balanced corridor and realized that this ‘mysterious space’ could actually take physical form, right here in the real world. Every weekend, talented artists from around the globe would send out their signals through sound, and for my friends and me, it became a ritual to stand on the dance floor—listening, watching, and dancing until sunrise. Over time, the idea of one day being on that stage myself began to quietly take root.
Six months after COVID-19 hit China, I started learning how to DJ through OIL’s Open Decks program. DJing, for me, is about navigating and weaving through different tracks, finding the perfect sounds to shape and elevate the mood of the moment. The sheer diversity of music is a constant wellspring of inspiration.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

After I truly began DJing, my focus shifted to how I could carefully select and seamlessly transition between tracks in each moment of a set. At OIL, I was given many opportunities to boldly explore different versions of myself. The friendly inclusiveness and encouragement I received pushed me to keep improving. Joining the OIL Soundsystem was both an early goal when I started DJing and a surprising achievement.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

I hope to have more time in the future to focus on music, exploring and expressing my views of the world through sound creation. As both a DJ and producer, I want to build deeper connections with people. In the next ten years, I hope music will take me to a more open and boundless space, allowing me to collaborate with talented musicians and grow as a creator.

JASCER

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

My transition from Jazz, Hip-hop, and Beatmaking to DJing began by chance when a friend, Knopha, gave me a vinyl record—Benedek’s Bene’s World. From that moment on, I started collecting this dreamy yet rhythmic style of House music. Gradually, I developed a deeper connection with various forms of electronic music. Even now, I’m continuously learning and exploring different genres.
I truly enjoy discovering music that excites me, and sharing those tracks with fellow music lovers has become an essential part of my life. At the same time, I’ve also realized that I’m actually quite good at DJing! 

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start?

In April 2022, after playing a closing set at a party, I officially became a member of Oil Soundsystem. I feel honored to be part of this amazing family. Here, I’ve made many great friends, met artists I admire, and shared experiences with them—learning how to present the music we love in a club setting.
During my time as a resident, I’ve experimented with a wide range of musical combinations and received a lot of positive feedback. I believe the future will only get more exciting. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Huiyuan and Yangyang for creating such an incredible club, and to the entire Oil team—they truly are the best.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

Ten years feels like a long time to me, and I already feel incredibly fortunate to be able to enjoy and make the most of each step I take right now. That said, I still hope to return to music production in the future. In the meantime, I’ll continue to explore and gather inspiration.
Currently, I’ve started working with friends to establish a new label. Our goal is to discover and promote talented artists from Asia and around the world, helping them release their music.

ZZM

How did you start DJing and how would you describe inspirations for your musical journey?

For me, the biggest inspiration and influence has to be video games, especially the series of music arcade games produced by KONAMI (shout out to BEMANI Team!!). These games were my introduction to electronic music. Additionally, around 2010, I was amazed by the ACG (Anime, Comic, and Games) fan music I discovered online—it felt like I had stumbled upon a new world.
Since then, I’ve been voraciously learning about electronic music, much like a hamster endlessly stuffing its cheeks. Somehow, I stumbled upon DJing, though I didn’t get much practice until 2019. During a trip to Chengdu, after spending a night at a party at China Social Club, I realized I might just be able to try my hand at DJing and work my own magic on the decks.

How did your story with the residency at OIL CLUB start? 

In 2020, I moved to Shenzhen, where I reconnected with Fatalis, who had been an online acquaintance and a fellow university student in the same city. Fatalis, now a member of OIL Soundsystem, had signed up for OIL’s Open Decks event. Shortly after, local promoters began inviting me to DJ at their events. After a few performances, OIL started regularly inviting me to play in Room2.
At that time, I was particularly fascinated by the bright and uplifting sounds of Disco, Synthwave, and Electrofunk. These sweet-sounding genres fit perfectly with the warm, cozy ambiance of Room2, a smaller but intimate space at OIL. The limited size of Room2 meant that I often found myself surrounded by friends, creating a close-knit and vibrant atmosphere. Especially in the summer, this intimate setting fostered friendships and a sense of connection. It was during this period that I met many new friends and officially became a Resident DJ at OIL, joining the OIL Soundsystem family.artists and musicians in the future. Ultimately, I want to continue freely exploring my identity through music.

What are your plans for the future in music?Where would you like to be in 10 years?

To be honest, I’m not one for making long-term plans. However, the past decade has taught me an important lesson: when it comes to pursuing things you’re curious about and passionate about, it’s crucial to seize every opportunity without stressing too much about the outcome.
In the next ten years, my main goal will be to sustain my enthusiasm and curiosity—something that’s easier said than done. I aim to immerse myself in a diverse range of music, explore various cultural scenes, and tackle the anxiety that time’s passage can bring.
Speaking of different scenes, I’ve long been captivated by Southeast Asia. If the opportunity arises, I would love to DJ there and connect with the local youth.

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All pictures by KEYI STUDIO

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