EXPLORING THE IMPORTANCE OF MUSIC DURING LOCKDOWN WITH DJ KIROU KIROU OF 99GINGER

Photography By Pierre

Although the outbreak of coronavirus and the lockdown that followed had put many of our social lives on hold, music played an important part in bringing many people together online. As music continued to unite us through a shared taste of genre or a favourite artist, many individuals have fused music and the use of social media. Instagram lives have been a key source of live performances with DJ sets and music conversations where thousands can tune in, providing everyone at home with the needed interaction and distraction from our current reality.

DJ Kirou Kirou is a DJ that has taken to Instagram live to interact with his followers. Based in Paris, Kirou Kirou has previously taken his sets across the world, hosting global events through 99GINGER; ‘a global media, record label and community’. During lockdown, he has also taken part in a number of online sets for the likes of XXIII and Havana Club as well as dropping a mix for TREIZE, incorporating the prominent sounds of French music and Afro Punk. 

Myself and DJ Kirou Kirou exchanged a few questions about his experience of lockdown and the positive aspects that have come about through the medium of music.

In what ways have you been able to interact with people differently using music? 

I started doing livestreams, which was a great experience. I also kept sharing musical contents such as monthly playlist and guest mixes on 99GINGER.

What has been the response to your interaction through social media? People actually were very receptive. They got involved in the livestreams, commented on it, shared love. As we invited international DJs to play on live, music lovers from many places around the globe reacted. It’s nice connecting that way.

What has lockdown allowed you to do that you hadn’t done or tried beforehand?

Lockdown really allowed me to take some time. Take the time I needed to think, take a step back, and relax. It’s a break. I just do cool things I would do if I had more time, cooking, working out, digging for new music.

In what ways do you think music has allowed yourself and others to get through such a confusing period?

Music soothes the days. It makes us think, but does not make us overthink and as we’re alone, we tend to do it. So music is a good partner that distracts from thinking too much.

How important do you believe music has been for everyone during this lockdown?

As you said, we’re in lockdown., but music is an intimate thing. You get invited in other people’s moods, atmospheres, words, stories, it’s spiritual intimacy and we relate, we identify and still get close to others that beautiful way.