The three-time Grammy nominated electronic producer Paul Oakenfold is one of the most influential trance artists of all time. The British dance music pioneer has worked with acts from Tiesto to Madonna to Brittany Murphy. In the biz for over 25 years, Oakenfold not only has his own record label, Perfecto Records, but has starred in television and films such as Big Brother and the Rules of Attraction.

SR: What do you try to accomplish during your sets?

Paul Oakenfold: To connect with the crowd, entertain, and educate. Not for people to just listen to me but for people to follow my musical lead on a journey

SR: Even if you’ve played for that festival/venue/cities in the past, do you even feel out the room before you hit the decks?

Paul Oakenfold: Yes, I think its important to be there an hour before to get a feel for the vibe.

SR: What was the first piece of DJ equipment you owned?

Paul Oakenfold: It was an all-in one console.

SR: What are some of the biggest positive changes you’ve seen in the DJ/producer world over the years?

Paul Oakenfold: The DJ / Producer world has become so big. Its a global scene now. I hold a DJ camp in los angeles and I was talking to the students about the changes in the industry and how there is so much more you have to do now to be a modern DJ.

SR: What is the best gig you’be played in the past 6 months?

Paul Oakenfold: I did a private event in Las Vegas to tie in with the Mayweather fight. I had a residency there in 2009 when electronic music was a bad word there. It was great to go back and see how big its become there.

SR: You’ve worked with a variety of artists from all different musical backgrounds. Who has been your favorite to work with and why?

Paul Oakenfold: I enjoy working in all different genres of music. Living and growin up in london, radio 1 would play all different genres.

SR: If you had to choose, which remix of yours would you say is your favorite? What makes it special to you?

Paul Oakenfold: That’s very difficult. Id say massive attack – unfinished symphony, U2 – Even better than the real thing, or Justin Timberlake – Rock Your Body

SR: What’s your favorite Beatles song?

Paul Oakenfold: Jon Lennon – Beautiful Boy