Lane’s rise in the music scene is marked by his modesty and deep-rooted passion. Despite his growing popularity, he remains grounded, balancing his music career with everyday life, humorously attributing his low-key lifestyle to routine Friday night shopping and tea at Morrison’s.
Proud of his Black Country roots, Lane recalls his early nightlife experiences at venues like Eclipse, Quadrant Park, and the Haçienda. His local gem, Love Revolution in Wolverhampton, played a pivotal role in his musical journey.
Lane’s music blends classic House, Techno, New Beat, Post Punk, Funk, and Synth Pop, resonating particularly with middle-aged ex-ravers and younger audiences alike. Events like A Love From Outer Space (ALFOS) and various nights in Glasgow and London exemplify this resurgence, attracting diverse crowds.
As Rich Lane continues to champion the Chug scene, his commitment to authenticity and love for nostalgic sounds ensure his music resonates deeply with those who share his passion. With further releases on the horizon, Lane’s influence on the dance music landscape shows no signs of slowing down.
DISCOLYPSO QUESTIONNAIRE
What was the first record you can remember buying? Tell us about an important early musical experience.
Like many of my generation, finding out as a child that I could ‘multitrack’ sound and music using two tape recorders was a revelation.
The first record that I remember buying was ‘The Hitler Rap’ by Mel Brooks…
If you could have the audio stems to any track what would it be?
Oooh! Maybe ‘Breakout’ by Swing Out Sister, or ‘Left To My Own Devices’ by Pet Shop Boys. Perhaps one of the other epic Trevor Horn productions of the 80s?
What was your first musical composition, edit or remix?
First release was as a 17 year old – ‘Give It To Me Baby’ by Love Revolution, with Simon Storer, 1991. Rave-tastic!
What song do you put on when you wake up or need to get cracking on with the day?
Perhaps because music has been a ‘job’ for so long now, I very rarely feel like listening to any music first thing in the morning. Birdsong is enough!
Which musical acts do you feel have not been dealt their fair hand in the annals of time?
All the African American trailblazers across popular music, too numerous to list, who’s music has been hijacked by whiter, blander, more ‘succesful’ artists. Also, Belgian New Beat and Italo Disco have been looked down upon unfairly by UK dance music historians. They are massively influential for me anyway!
Do you have an album or DJ set that you listen to repeatedly and would like to share with our clan?
I’m not an album fan really as they almost always have tracks I’d rather skip. However, the trilogy of peak period Beatles – Revolver, Sgt Pepper and The White Album – are probably my most played.
If you could ask any musician alive or dead one question, what would it be?
Ed Sheeran – ‘Why?’
Are there any habits, processes or hacks you do to help yourself get yourself ready to make music?
I have to start in the morning, ideally. I find it almost impossible to get started on anything brand new after 12pm. Proper Italian coffee helps.
What do you wish we had more of in the electronic music scene?
Transparency, fair distribution of credit and money, and humour.
How did you decide that music was your calling? Is it your sole focus?
Never any career plans here – always just working on the next tune or lusting after the next synth.
If money and death was not a factor - who would play at your wedding or birthday - both live acts and djs?
There were 4 people including me and my wife at my wedding, and I like to spend my birthday with my wife and kids. So no need for any music! Just chat and good food and laughter. But if I ever want to throw a bigger party, I’m spoiled for choice with so many trusted and talented DJ friends.
Which acts are really exciting you at the moment?
The artists on the tici taci label are consistently great – their A&R is spot on. I’m lucky enough to do their mastering, but another client I really admire is The Flying Mojito Brothers – so clever, so funky, so well produced!
If you had the Discolypso time travel machine - where in history and the future would you go to?
1967 Summer Of Love
What song do you put on when you want to relax?
I find all good music tends to excite me, even if it’s downtempo. If i want to truly relax I need to avoid music.
Three albums everyone should hear once?
I know I’m supposed to go cool or obscure to look good, but that’s really not me, so I’m going to say 1) Sgt Pepper; 2) Thriller; and 3) Violator
