Ellesse Sounds of Summer with DJ Austin Cassim!

Welcome back, music lovers, to our 3rd instalment of ellesse 'Sounds of Summer'. We're excited to introduce you to our latest hitmaking DJ, Austin Cassim!
This young man has an enormous passion for music and a love for indoor soccer. He also enjoys playing Playstation, preferably Fifa. You can catch this talented DJ spicing up Saturday nights on 5FM with the "5 Saturday Sizzle" between 18:00 and 19:00.

Without further ado, here's what we learned about DJ Austin!

The News Groove Corner - Q and A With Austin Cassim

1. Austin, as one of SA's popular DJs, your music and sets often define the atmosphere of an event. How would you describe your approach to crafting the perfect playlist?
   As someone who has been DJing since the age of 12, I've learnt the art of reading a crowd. However, as I have grown in my career, I found my own sound and then built a following around that, so it's more about making sure the music I play is still relevant to my fans but can educate them on new music at the same time.
2. Your performances are often described as having an electrifying and infectious energy. Could you share some techniques that keep the crowd grooving all night?
   An important thing to remember as a DJ is that as much as it's my work, it is the crowd's play. So, in order to keep them grooving, I've got to keep grooving. In other words, if the crowd sees I'm having a good time, it's easy for them to bounce off my energy and have a good time.
3. Because ellesse enjoys blending style and music, how would you incorporate the two into your personal style and set?
   Often, being the DJ, you're also the centre of attention with a lot of people looking at you. I'm grateful that Ellesse makes it easy for me to constantly look good up there. Especially because my following is generally between 18 and 25. I try to keep it as trendy as possible, and Ellesse definitely makes that happen.
4. What would you say has influenced you most as a DJ, and how does that affect your sound and style as a DJ?
   I try to attend overseas events and festivals as often as possible to identify trends in dance music so that I can bring it back to SA before anyone else does. This industry is very fast-paced, so that helps me stay on top of my game.
5. Summer is a playful and upbeat season, often inspiring joy, laughter and fun. How will your 'Sounds of Summer' set tie into the season while capturing the essence of the ellesse brand?
   My goal is for people to hear my Sound of Summer mix and instantly want to get up and dance, and if I can keep people dancing, I can keep my career! Today, with so many people wanting to be a DJ, it's important to find a way to stand out, and Ellesse is about being bold, which perfectly ties into where I want to be in my career.

Catch Austin Cassim on ellesse's YouTube channel and groove to our latest Sounds of Summer!