UK based DJ Asif is making his mark on the scene with his unique blend of music known as "Fusing Naked." While growing up, the first musical instrument he took up and mastered was a guitar. Not too long after he joined a Punk Band and explored all the possible sounds one can create with Punk music. Finally, after discovering Hip Hop and Electronica, DJ Asif came to be what he is today. Aside from creating music for "Fusing Naked," Asif has contributed to the arts by producing musical scores and lending his vocals to various projects. A true master of the genres, he blends several cultures together into his own sound, which is best described as clean, yet raw.

Rita Bhattacherjee: Not for its literal meaning, I love the name "Fusing Naked." How did you come up with the name and how does it best describe your sound?
DJ Asif: Fusing Naked derives from "fusing" as in the fusion of different musical styles and "Naked" as in raw and original. We are now Fusing Naked Beats.

RB: How did you get into producing and creating tracks, especially since you started out at 16?
Asif: I toured with Fun-Da-Mental as a guitar player and met some very creative people, which fuelled my interest in music and the way its created. This in turn led me to experiment and compose my own music. My strength lies in production.

RB: Did you ever have to use a crazy excuse to leave the house for a gig?
Asif: No, not really. My parents have always been very open minded and let me do my own thing. Of course I have my own place now and don't need any excuse right?

RB: You fuse a lot of different sounds when creating tracks. Which cultures have influenced you the most and how have you incorporated them into your sound?
Asif: Asian and Arabic fused with garage, break beats, House, Drum N Bass, Hip-Hop. But I am open to most World cultures and music.

RB: Hip Hop created in the UK has a different feel then compared to what's being created in North America. How would you best describe its difference and how have both styles influenced you?
Asif: Hip-Hop in North America is much more aggressive and also reflects American culture and street life. The UK reflects UK culture and therein lies the difference. Personally, both styles have influenced me. But from North America, its mostly conscious lyrics from rappers such as Nas that get me going.

RB: You're a regular at Shanti, (Award winner for Best Asian Underground/Fusion Night). What was your best and worst experience playing there?
Asif: Best experience is when the crowd is open to fusion music and really enjoy the vibe, which happens 99% of the time. Worst experience would have to be when I am inundated with too many Bhangra requests.

RB: Too many Bhangra requests? Isn't that the norm with Desi events. haha Every musician has an icon they look towards for inspiration. Who inspires you on and off the Asian Subcontinent?
Asif: TJ Rehmi inspires me, he is very talented. Also N.E.R.D, Nitin Sawney, The Prodigy, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and the list goes on.

RB: You've done some work in movies and theatres. How important do you think music is when it comes to the fine arts?
Asif: Essential and challenging. Something I will be working more on in the near future.

RB: Would you ever consider being in front of the camera instead of in a recording studio?
Asif: Yes, if I can brush up on my acting skills that's an area I would definitely be interested in.

RB: What's next on the list for creative projects?
Asif: A new album next year "Digital Asia," which I am very excited about. I have been spreading our new five track sampler 'The Crunch E.P' taken from our album and the response has been brilliant! We will also be touring all around Europe. Check out our website for all gig updates - www.fusingnakedbeats.co.uk.

RB: Finally, how has being in the UK helped you musically since it's got such a diverse culture, especially since Indian sounds have become more mainstream here?
Asif: The UK and especially London is a melting pot of cultures, which is constantly evolving and is a great source for new ideas. I tend to look at musical styles from all over the World, not just Asian or Arabic. In the future, I am looking for inspiration from South America, Flamenco for example. Diversity is the key to creativity.

For more info on DJ Asif, check him at www.fusingnakedbeats.co.uk.

Do you have any thoughts on this? Feel free to send Rita an e-mail @ Rita Bhattacherjee.