How was 2019 for you?
Atish: 2019 was a great year for me. I have a dream job. I get to see new sights, eat new foods, meet interesting people, and most importantly express myself through music almost every weekend for money. That’s not to say that the year didn’t have its struggles and frustrations, but overall I find satisfaction in my work and feel that I moved forward this year. What more could a guy ask for?
Highlights?
My Atish All Night event series in SF, LA, and New York where I play open to close. This year I tried pushing things to the next level by moving SF into a bigger room and adding New York as a new market. The reception from all these events has been incredibly positive, selling out every show. I’m really grateful to have this platform and supportive audience.
Other standout gigs were sunrise at Elements Festival, Desert Hearts, Bijou Boston, Horde Cruise Paris, Mia Club Tulum, and Cityfox New Year’s Day.
Outside the performance aspect, one of the big highlights for me was overall reduced stress/anxiety, thanks to bringing aboard a manager to the team (hi, Dermot!). Prior to having a manager, I took great pride in doing everything myself – perhaps due to being a control freak, wanting to perceive myself as self-made, and wanting to do things the “underground” way. But as my wife observed, I was generally a stressed unpleasant person to be around, so I let go of those silly ideals and got some help. As a result, I’ve had more time to focus on things that are important to me, like making music and resting (a little).
Lowlights?
A long-time team member and I ended our working relationship in 2019. What made this particularly difficult was that the colleague was a dear friend. Navigating the fine line between friend and colleague was a tough one.
Also, finishing many gigs in pain due to a foot injury. It’s a very strange feeling experience the thrill of a great gig juxtaposed against serious body aches.
Song of the year?
I really loved Dance Spirit’s “Street Prophet,” but since that one isn’t yet released, I’ll go with Love Over Entropy’s “As If.” I don’t know what it is about this track, but it strikes a nerve every time I play it. Absolute beauty.
What’s your New Year’s resolution?
Meditate more, operate with more confidence.
