Dubai-based artist Bachir Salloum is an artist on the rise. Counting Hernan Cattaneo as a supporter, he has played globally alongside superstars from Sasha to Patrice Baumel and Henry Saiz. Now he is establishing himself as a quality producer, releasing on labels like Balance Music and Sudbeat and beyond. Raised on Beirut’s famed club scene, Bachir’s uplifting sets and deep, emotional productions skilfully combine progressive, deep and shades of tech house.
‘Each gig is different. But my sound and style are always identifiable, defined by me and the tracks I choose to share.’
Inspired by his older brother who was a hip-hop and R&B DJ, Bachir started exploring electronic music aged 16 and was captivated by Beirut’s diverse music scene. His first DJ gig was in 2006 at OM, an after-hours club in Beirut 2006. ‘The first time I saw a turntable and vinyl was thanks to my brother, he used to work at a local radio station as a DJ. He used to practise at home and I remember wanting to learn so badly, he never allowed me to touch the equipment and I now know why!’ His earlier influences were suitably diverse too, including rock music, heavy metal and progressive rock (Pink Floyd, Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree). From age 13-15 years old, he would carefully curate and record fragments of songs from the radio and create mixtapes on cassette, by learning the radio schedule and waiting for just the right song he wanted. Bachir will shine as one of the stars of the Middle East scene and beyond.
