Fife house and techno DJ and producer James Cowie, aka Valhalla, just had his first show on Beat 106 Scotland. Here he gives us an insight into his world
Tell us about your music?
As Valhalla, I’m a house and techno DJ and producer from Thornton in Fife. I’ve been DJing since I was 11, and began teaching myself how to produce electronic music at 12. I started my own label, Groove Shack Records, in 2020. My album DNA topped the Norwegian iTunes charts, coming in at number one in Techno Albums and number 29 in Techno Albums in the UK. I host regular Groove Shack events in Fife, showcasing artists from my label and guest DJs such as Argy (UK) & Hans Bouffmyhre. My music as Valhalla has gained support from Judge Jules, Paul Oakenfold, Sam Paganini, Joseph Capriati, Marco Carola, Argy (UK), Sonique, Celic, Nell Silva, DJ BL3ND and many more.
How did you get into dance music?
Music has been a lifelong passion from a very early age. I remember first being introduced to dance music on late night BBC Radio 1 shows when I was about five years old. There was something about that 4/4 beat that sounded special to me and really began my obsession with dance music.
Who’s most inspired you in the music industry?
DJs who have managed to make a lifelong career in the industry such as DJ Rush, Carl Cox and Fatboy Slim. For me, this is the ultimate goal – to be able to span a lifelong career in doing what I love most.
What’s happening in your world of techno/music?
This year has been great so far. I have a new residency radio show every third Wednesday of the month on Beat 106 Scotland. I was also asked to remix a track called Get A Little Deeper from old skool rave legends, The Rhythmic State. This did really well and gained support from the likes of Paul Oakenfold, Sam Paganini, Joseph Capriati and Marco Carola. Throughout this year, my team and I at Groove Shack Records have worked hard organising successful music events at our local nightclub in Glenrothes, Styx Nightclub. Our next event is for Hogmanay and we have booked Sleaze Records boss Hans Bouffmyhre for a special two hour set after the bells. After that, I’ll be retreating back into the studio to work on some new material.
What is it about techno/dance music you love most?
I love house music for the soulful, feel-good vibes that it has to offer, but it all comes down to the rhythm and groove of the track for me. Techno is like the evil older brother. There’s something dark and tribal about it and when it hits on a good loud sub-heavy sound system, it really packs a punch, I love it!
What would you have done if you hadn’t done the job you’re doing now?
There is nothing I want to do more, than DJ and produce music, so if I wasn’t, I would still have to be in the music industry somewhere.
Where in the world are you happiest?
Wherever my wife and kids are but I absolutely love Spain. Ibiza would be at the top of the list!
Favourite part of Scotland to explore?
Anywhere up the Highlands. It’s always beautiful and peaceful. Great for the mind, body and soul.
Music you listen to in the car?
Anything from The 1975, Billy Strings, Bombay Bicycle Club to Fred Again and DJ Seinfeld.
Who inspires you?
DJ Rush, Argy (UK), Green Velvet, James Hype and James Zabiela to name a few.
Your house is on fire – what one item do you save?
My decks would be first on the list but that’s three items. If I had to choose one, it would probably my phone.
First thing you’d do if you won £1 million?
I would make sure my family were financially secure and pay off my mortgage and any debts. Then I would invest some money into my record label and possibly buy a club.
If you could rule for a day, what would be the first thing you would do?
Banish the rising gas and electric prices and introduce a four day working week.
Favourite holiday destination?
Spain is my favourite destination and it’s not too far to travel. Ibiza especially, as it’s the dance music capital of the world.
What makes you happy?
My wife and kids, music, warm sunny days and going to the gym.
What makes you sad?
I’m quite a positive person but I would say if I didn’t have enough time to spend with the ones I love, it would definitely make me sad.
Do you believe in love at first sight?
Sort of, I think attraction comes first then love. Otherwise, it would be a bit crazy being madly in love with a stranger. A strong attraction is what brought my wife and I together, then as we grew to know each other, love was inevitable. Some find it by being good friends first, then it happens over time.
What was the first album you ever bought?
This is quite a cheesy one and I bought this when I was nine years old. Alice Deejay: Who Needs Guitars Anyway (Album).
What is the best advice you have ever received, and who did it come from?
My mum always said that in life, you should seek happiness. This is one that I have always lived by.
What do you do to unwind?
I practice meditation as it clears the mind and puts you in a deep state of relaxation.
Biggest regret?
Choosing to see Eminem rather than The Prodigy back in T in The Park 2010, when Keith Flint was still alive.
What or who are you proudest of?
I’m proud of my music career and how I taught myself both how to mix and how to produce music at a time where there was no high speed internet, YouTube tutorials weren’t a thing yet.
If you could turn back the clock what one thing would you change?
Nothing, life’s all about making mistakes and learning from them. That’s what makes us human.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Keep doing what you are doing – even if others don’t believe in you, you’ve got this and your time will come!
What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do?
Probably moving house twice in under two years.
Hardest thing you’ve had to give up during the pandemic?
Probably doing gigs and going out raving with friends. It was quite a hard time for a lot of people.
Could you save someone’s life if they were dying in the street?
First thing would be to call emergency services. Depending on what they were dying from, but if CPR was needed or a defibrillator, I could do that as I have been trained in first aid. However, I am not a medic or doctor.
What’s your motto?
Always live life to the full and seek happiness. Love wholeheartedly and don’t take anything or anyone for granted. Always stay humble and true to yourself.
- Check out James’s music at grooveshackrecords1.godaddysites.com/
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