The Trance music genre has always been one that incorporates stunning vocals, breathtaking melodies and uplifting instrumentals. Big-name Trance producers such as the legendary Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Markus Schulz, Ferry Corsten,Tiësto and many more constantly seem to be shining above the rest as they continuously dominate international stages and release chart-topping tracks. Recently, there has been one trance artist that is rising up above them all: the Ottawa-based DJ named Sheridan Grout. This incredible musician has been pushing through the odds and making a name for himself with his undeniably catchy and beautiful pieces. The Canadian producer has taken the time out of his extremely busy schedule and has agreed to do an exclusive interview with EDMTunes. From producing new tunes in which have certainly grasped the attention of Armin van Buuren, to becoming a signed DJ with AVA Recordings and finalizing his CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), it’s my absolute pleasure to officially present the brilliantly talented Sheridan Grout to the world. I aspire that this interview allows it’s readers to feel more connected to this exceptionally down-to-earth artist – you’ll definitely want to check this one out!
1What do you love the most about the Trance music genre?
The people and the connection with the music. It’s like no other electronic dance music genre or even music genre in general, in my opinion. The connection the crowd is making with the music is unbelievable and it makes playing for the Trance-family that much better when you see them investing in the journey that you’re bringing them on.
2Describe your sound.
Uplifting and melodic but I really try to incorporate some of the older sounds in Trance that don’t have the spotlight anymore in favor of more big room sounding Trance. I think that’s what makes me “unique”.
3Who is your vocalist and does the individual always change?
I’ve worked with Michele C (twice), Myah (twice), Aloma Steele, Diana Leah and many more (which have yet to be released). I think change in vocalists is good to keep your sound evolving; however, I’ve been privileged enough to work with amazing vocalists and sometimes you find comfort in using them again since you know you’re going to get quality.
4How do you know when a track is finished?
Oh, that’s tough because there’s always tweaks that I’m making to the songs even after they’re signed. One of my latest releases, ‘Alpha’, I changed significantly about 3 weeks before it was released. So I guess I know a track is finished when it’s released and I can’t make any more changes haha.
5How did you 1st manage to get your song featured on ASOT and which track was it?
Normally when I release on a label my team will send the track to A State of Trance. My first ASOT play was actually ‘Holding On‘ which got played 3 weeks in a row and was voted Future Favorite on the label back in November of 2016. I didn’t expect it and it was so surreal.
6Describe how it felt to play your 1st big show and where was it?
My first big show was playing on Gareth Emery’s Electric for Life stage at Escapade Music Festival. Gareth was my idol and still is one of them to this day so playing on his stage at one of the biggest festivals in my home city was nerve wracking and unbelievably exciting. After getting off the stage, I was actually shaking a bit and had to sit down for a couple of minutes to process everything that had just happened.
7Who would be your dream collaboration?
Oh! I would have to say collaborating with Armin – it would be simply unbelievable. I would also love to collaborate with Ben Gold; I feel we could make an explosive track.
8Do you have any upcoming projects and/or goals in the near future?
Tons of upcoming releases and projects! I’m already signing my 2018 music and working on my 2018 vocal releases. I’m going to release another track with Myah who is the vocalist from ‘The Last Word‘. I am also making the follow-up to ‘Breathless‘ with Aloma Steele I’m super excited about. I also have potentially my biggest vocal track which hasn’t been released yet. I’m hoping that will come out in early 2018
9Describe your fan base.
Passionate! I’m always amazed and grateful to see how passionate they are about the music that I’m releasing. They call themselves Sherifans and they love melodic uplifting trance.
10Who is your number one supporter?
It’s hard to say just one person since it’s been a combination of many. Andy Moor, Somna and the whole AVA Recordings family have definitely been my number one supporters. Armin Van Buuren, Ruben De Ronde and everyone at A State of Trance have also been invaluable to my progression as an artist.
11What would you like your audience to know?
I’d just like to say thank you to everyone and all of my fans who have supported me in anyway. Without you guys, I wouldn’t be where I am today and I promise a ton of new music is on its way! In the meantime, check out my fresh new track, ‘Escape‘, which was featured on Armin’s ‘A State of Trance Ibiza 2017’ CD.
