The Italian genius returns with one of the hits of the summer
Words : Dan Prince
Welcome to DMCWORLD Francesco – and what a week you have had hitting No. 1 in the world famous Buzz Chart with ‘Paper Aeroplane’. Massive support from the likes of Tiesto, Fatboy Slim, David Guetta and Mark Knight – tell us a little history of the track…
“Hey Dan. I was in Egypt in the aftermath of a fantastic evening at Pacha in Sharm El Sheik when I heard the original version of this wonderful song for the first time. I was hugely excited!”
On completion – did you know you were sitting on one of the summer hits of the year – did you know it was a classic?
“Honestly, no. Although the track makes me tingle and I thought that feeling should be shared with everyone!”
Okay, let’s put the excitement to one side and find out some more about Mr Rossi. A career in music was inevitable really, you grew up surrounded by your father’s massive vinyl collection – what were your father’s musical tastes…?
“Pink Floyd, Prince, Donna Summer, Giorgio Moroder, Chic etc. This massive collection of vinyl gave birth to my passion for music.”
What is your favourite childhood memory concerning music?
“My father always copied his vinyl on a tape recorder that he used then for listening to his music collection. For this reason, most of the vinyl is still in perfect condition.”
Most guys get a football or a computer game for their 14th birthday. What did you get?
“Two turntables and a mixer.”
You hail from one of the most beautiful parts of the world, Tuscany. Tell us about your early days learning your trade at Le Mirage. Can you recall the tunes you were playing and other DJs that were around back then?
“I made my debut in 1990 at The Mirage which was the most important club in my home town. For me it was a dream come true. The club music at that time was of great quality and a lot of tracks played at this time went down in history. One of them being Aretha Franklin – ‘A Deeper Of Love’ (Morales Remixes).”
Tell us about your collection of analog synth, what is your prized possession?
“In the mid-nineties I became interested in the analog synths. I can remember when I was able to buy the Minimoog, although it was not easy to find at that time. It was one of the most sought after synths. I was completely bewitched by the power and warmth of the sound. Then I launched a recruitment drive that included the ARP 2600, Korg MS 20, Juno 106, Nord Lead, etc.”
What is the current top 10 you are spinning…
Jestofunk – Stellar Funk (Lazzaro Shoes Remix)
Urban Soul, Roland Clark – Have A Good Time (Monkey Safari Remix)
Hernan Cattaneo, Soundexile – Citycism
Groove Phenomenon, Hanna Hansen – Same Man (Dave Rose Remix)
Sugar House – Desire (The Cube Guys Remix)
Francesco Rossi vs Opus III – Desert Wind / It’s a Fine Day (Exclusive Content)
4Th Measure Men – 4 You (Maya Jane Coles Remix)
Santos Resiak – A Better Light (The Martinez Brothers Remix)
Gambafreaks – Body Work
Sydenham & Ferrer – Sandcatles (Francesco Rossi Remix)
One of the big overseas shows that put you on the map was Ultra in Miami six years ago…an event that helped get you the job as resident DJ for Ultra Music Festivals worldwide. Ultra are now the biggest event organisers in the world bar none, quite a coup getting that job eh?
“When I played at UMF for the first time in 2007 I can’t describe the emotion I felt. The incredible organization, the artists and location make this event unique. Miami has a very special atmosphere and this is replicated across all UMF events around the world.”
What is the best Ultra you have ever played at?
“Miami and Amnesia Ibiza.”
Who are the producers from around the world you are giving high fives to at the moment?
“Daft Punk.”
Ibiza is round the corner, where will we find you this summer…
“Ibiza will be my base for this summer. From there I’ll travel to various events around Europe.”
What is it about Ibiza that makes it the best party destination in the world?
“The best clubs in the world, the best DJs and the magical atmosphere of the island.”
What is coming out next from the mighty Francesco Rossi studio…
“Right now I’m working on a remix for D:vision and my next single…”
What is the greatest record you have ever played to a dancefloor…
“Jaydee ‘Plastic Dream’.”
What piece of advice can you give to the thousands of aspiring producers reading this…
“Passion and perseverance make all the difference. The major objectives are not achieved over night, you have to work towards the bigger picture.”
And finally, who do you get mistaken for the most, the Francesco Rossi the wedding photographer from Florence or the famous Italian goalkeeper?
“Hahahah! I’ve don’t even know them Dan, so neither!”
FRANCESCO ROSSI – PAPER AEROPLANE is forthcoming on d:vision
https://soundcloud.com/dvisionrecords/francesco-rossi-paper-1
http://www.facebook.com/francescorossi.official
https://twitter.com/frsoundofficial
http://www.youtube.com/frofficialchannel
http://www.youtube.com/user/EnergyProductionRec
