Life on the road for a global DJ is more than just packed clubs and roaring crowds; it's a relentless grind that can take a toll on mental health.
This was the raw, honest truth shared by Greek DJ and producer ARGY in a recent exclusive interview at the Sunset by Neon music festival .
Known for his uniquely cinematic and spiritual tracks, the Greek-born, UK-based DJ confessed there's no magic formula for managing the pressures of his career.
"Honestly, I don't know. Maybe you can't be completely in balance. There must be something off balance," he told Sinar Daily.
He shared his personal coping mechanism, revealing that he makes a conscious effort "not to be too emotional with the music and sleep over things" to avoid making impulsive decisions.
ARGY also stressed the importance of having a trusted circle of friends and colleagues, who serve as a vital "quality control" system for his creative process and personal life.
ARGY, who was on his second visit to Malaysia, spoke warmly of his return to Asia. The crowds in Kuala Lumpur, in particular, left a strong impression on him.
When it comes to making music, ARGY has one non-negotiable rule.
He asks himself a single, pivotal question before starting a new project: "Is this something I can stand behind and be proud to present on stage?" He described that whether the initial idea is a rhythm or a vocal, he prioritises creating music he can fully represent.
On the topic of artificial intelligence (AI), ARGY views it as a helpful tool rather than a threat.
He described that while AI can't create a full track from scratch, it can be a valuable assistant for specific tasks, especially with vocals, streamlining the music-making process.
And for those who wondered if his Greek heritage shapes his signature sound, ARGY explained that his global experiences played a bigger role.
"Having left Greece over 20 years ago, I felt that living in places like London and Berlin influenced my music more," he said.
Ultimately, his sound is a reflection of various influences, whether from a country or a close friend, at different stages of his life.