EXRON EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: RIOT TEN

If you love dubstep, there’s no doubt you know the name Riot Ten. Bursting into the scene and breaking global records with his 2017 smash hit, “Rail Breaker” put this Texan DJ and producer on everyone’s EDM radar. Since then, Riot Ten has released several albums and singles under his Hype or Die brand and bursting at the seams with new IDs created during the pandemic.

In an exclusive interview we check in with Riot Ten to chat about his latest single “Don’t You”, the impact of “Rail Breaker” on his music career, and news of a new album on the way. Check out the full interview below.

Exron Music: We love your new single, “Don’t You” that shows a softer side to your discography. It reminds me of your other tracks you’ve done with blvkkhvrt like, “Missing You” and “Never Win”. What was the thought behind creating this track and have you considered making an avenue in your career to showcase this end of the Hype or Die spectrum?

Riot Ten: Thank you! That means a lot and this is one of my favorite songs on the album. On almost every project, I like to stray away and add something a bit more unique to the catalog. I feel like my audience is musically diverse enough that I can put out nearly any genre and they would respond positively to the music. You can definitely expect more melodic tunes from me in the near future, but I’ll always deliver that signature Hype Or Die sound my fans have come to expect.

Exron Music: What have you been doing with your down time? How has this time in quarantine affected your creative process?

Riot Ten: Man, creatively it was probably the best thing that could possibly happen. It gave me the time and space to experiment with new sounds, work with artists I hadn’t had the chance to yet, and really zone in on the music. It also afforded me more time with my kids, my inspirations and the most important people in my life. As bad as it was being quarantined and not on the road, there were a lot of positive aspects that came out of it as well and for that I am grateful.

Exron Music: Live shows play an essential part in how we listen and show the full potential of dubstep. How do you think this period without live music has affected the dubstep scene overall?

Riot Ten: That’s a great question and I’m not sure any of us will have the “correct” answer quite yet. All of us were in the same position together, equally affected by the pause in touring. However, it seems now that we’re on the way to recovery, most artists are just as prepared and ready to rip as before. It’ll be interesting to watch what transpires the next 6 months to a year from now. So many great up-and-coming artists made a splash with their music this past year. Hoping to see many of them on the road soon!

Exron Music: With this in mind, will your sets this festival season differ from the past?

Riot Ten: The songs may change, of course, incorporating a year’s worth of new music from so many dope artists, but the energy will remain. When I step on stage I have one goal in mind: melt every single face I possibly can and leave them in a state of exhaustion by the time my set is over.

Photography: @MickyMelz

Exron Music: How has your 2017 global hit, “Rail Breaker” shaped your career now? Do you reflect on the track fondly or do you feel it as if it boxed you into a particular style creatively?

Riot Ten: It’s interesting, 4 years later and the song is still a fan favorite. There was concern early on, when it was at the peak of success, that it could potentially box me in, but that never really seemed to be the case. Since it’s release I’ve put out multiple EPs that have all charted, including a full house music EP and project, countless singles, an album with another on the way, etc… Rail Breaker was the right place, the right time, and I’ll be forever grateful for how the song has impacted my life and career. Much love to Rico Act as well for his contribution. His vocals have been chanted by hundreds of thousands worldwide.

Exron Music: Since then you have released countless singles and a few albums. Is there a story or underlying concept you want to express through your music?

Riot Ten: Ultimately I just enjoy making music and creating a live show experience. The HYPE OR DIE brand concept was started well before Rail Breaker was even a thought and it’s been with me ever since. At the same time, so many genres have inspired me over the years. I’ve always been a fan of hip hop, which is why I incorporate rap vocals in nearly all of my songs. I have also loved house music since I began making music and it was one of the first genres I ever tried to produce- and I still enjoy making it!

Exron Music: Your fashion and your music are both a bold statement. We love that you are not afraid to be exactly who you are, what do you have to say to the critics?

Riot Ten: Critics? What critics? Haha I’m always going to be me. I realize I don’t fit the mold of the prototypical dance music artist, but it wouldn’t be me if I did. Some will love it, some will hate it. I accepted that a long time ago. Love my haters.

Exron Music: Can you let us know what you’re working on next? We hear there is a new album underway?

Riot Ten: The new album is the best body of work I’ve ever put out and I’m beyond excited for the release. I am also working on a music video for one of the singles, which is another first of mine. In addition, my Fall tour is looking massive and it should be announcing soon. So many festivals this Summer to look forward to as well. Fingers crossed it all pans out and no hiccups along the way!

Listen to Riot Ten’s latest single “Don’t You” below and get ready for more fresh new tunes!