Scott Brown is the owner/operator of Evolution Records, the UK’s longest running Hardcore label (founded in Glasgow, Scotland in 1994). It was his “bouncy” techno sound that helped catapult many other artists onto the scene. His visit to the US will be an important and valuable lesson in the origins of the harder styles so his presence on this tour is mandatory. You can see Scott Brown in Edmonton, Canada on February 12th, San Francisco, California on February 13th, and Los Angeles, California on February 14th!

Were you a DJ first, or a producer?

Producer, under the name “Q-Tex”.

How did you get into the scene?

The techno/rave scene was booming in the early 90’s – I was buying a lot of vinyl and “copying” the styles in my small bedroom studio. I was at University at the time and another student was promoting a “rave” in the students union. I asked him if he wanted a live act…he said yes, and that was my first event. From there, I got offers for more gigs and things exploded from there!

What was the first record you ever purchased?

Quite possibly something by Madness or The Police, I’m not too sure.

Who was your biggest inspiration in the early part of your career?

I listened to 808 state; a guy called Gerald, and New Order. Easily my 3 biggest influences when I started out.

Would you describe your first DJ gig?

I played in a pub for a few beers and a packet of peanuts.

What was your favorite party you’ve ever played? Why?

I always miss the Rezerection events in Edinburgh, Scotland. They were special and we’ll never have another event like them.

What was the funniest moment during any of your performances?

At HTID USA 2015 with DJ Brisk. So many things went on during that set. I lost my shit for about half an hour – so funny!

What important changes have you witnessed from the time you got into the scene, until now?

There’s more money and attitude now from DJs and promoters. There are more people holding cameras than light sticks. Big events are everywhere in Europe, suffocating smaller events in many cases; it’s a whole different game these days!

Did you ever think you would be touring the United States? What do you think the Trauma Tour will be like?

I’m looking forward to playing for you guys. Great line up and great venues! It’ll be a blast.

What made you want to start producing Hardcore/Hardstyle/Rawstyle music?

Natural progression. I went from 90’s Rave/Early Rave to 90’s Hardcore & Gabber.

What is your favorite track that you have produced?

Too many to mention!

What advice would you give to up and coming Hardcore producers?

Keep doing what you do and don’t ever expect things to be handed on a plate to you. If you’re good at what you do, then you should have no problems getting music released. There’s not much money involved these days, so don’t expect to become an overnight superstar or millionaire!

Have any of the other artists on the Trauma tour ever inspired your work? If so, how?

Many of the guys have been big influences as well as being friends over the years. The Prophet I’ve known since the 90s. Tommyknocker has been churning out tune after tune since the Millennium. Mad Dog is another artist with huge talent.

What are your top 3 favorite tracks of all time? Why?

Too hard to answer!

What was your favorite track of 2015 (that wasn’t your own)?

Tommyknocker – Never Surrender / Advanced Dealer – NTSFR

Are there any exciting projects or gigs coming up you want our readers to know about?

I’ve just released a few digital compilations myself – Evolution Records Hardcore Classics 2 – and Twisted! I plan on following these up in the next year.

What artists would you like to collaborate with that you haven’t already?

I started something with Tommyknocker which I’d like to finish this year. Other than that, pretty much anyone on this tour!

If there’s anything we haven’t asked, what else would you like to say to the readers of The Hard Data?

Come out to the parties and have fun guys; this is going to be a huge tour! Not to be missed!