TJR Brings the Bounce on New Tour
TJ Rozdilsky, better known as bounce master TJR, has built quite a recipe for success as the DJ’s DJ, with monster hits like “Bounce Generation,” “Ode to Oi” and “Don’t Stop the Party” with Pitbull. Signed to Chris Lake’s Rising label, he’s consistently dropped dominating big room bangers. Coupled with his own Las Vegas residency at Surrender and stops on festivals all over the world—like EDC Mexico, Coachella, and Stereosonic in Australia—he’s exploded on the scene since his intro in 2008.
Now, TJR is about to embark on a 19-date North American tour with fellow genre-blending chart-toppers GTA. I caught up with TJR—while he was relaxing in his old Encinitas home after Super Bowl weekend—to chat about his move to L.A. and what to expect from the GTA x TJR tour.
Since moving from your hometown in Connecticut, you’ve paid your dues as a resident opening DJ in San Diego and Los Angeles. Why the move back to Hollywood?
I moved a year and a half ago to Hollywood because I’m renting a studio space now. I upgraded from being a bedroom producer to being in a real studio. It’s a lot easier to get business done. Plus, flying in and out of LAX is more convenient than San Diego.
Does this mean you have been busy in the studio in advance of your new tour?
Yes, hearing new music is inspiring. You want to create your own interpretation of what you have been hearing. I felt it was important to do that ahead of the new tour and have new music completed. I like to test new music on the road so I can make changes later. It’s a good testing platform and makes you more excited to go on the road again.
You’ve come a long way from your opening gigs to being a headlining act at clubs and festivals all over the world. Would you attribute that to your successful productions?
I wouldn’t attribute all of it to production. I think if you have good DJ skills, it helps you to headline—because it all comes down to being able to play a really good show. Producing gets you the opportunity, but you have to be a good DJ as well.
How did you first meet GTA?
I’ve been friends with them for a while. The first time I met them was when they came to WaveHouse in San Diego. This is probably three years ago, at least. I just remember these super young kids from Miami that had a unique sound and captured the audience. Their music was totally different.
GTA x TJR North American Tour from GTAxTJR on Vimeo.
How’d the GTA x TJR tour come about?
We have a really good dynamic. They really bring the party but have an easygoing attitude. They play all genres of music and mix it up really quick. I have to have my A-game with them. We both bring a lot of excitement and cover the entire spectrum, as far as genres go.
Your tour launches tonight at Exchange LA. What can we expect?
I really like the setup at Exchange. I think it’s cool when everyone can see what you’re doing up there. It gets me pumped up to do better. Also, GTA and I will be debuting our new track we just finished. We haven’t figured out the title yet. I’m just curious on what the public’s reaction will be.
The GTA x TJR North American tour launches tonight (February 5) at Exchange LA in Downtown Los Angeles. Tickets are available now. Stream the show live on Twitch starting at 10pm (PT).
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