Idris Elba is a man of many talents. Known for his acting prowess, the fifty-two-year-old actor is also a skilled DJ who has been spinning tracks since his teenage years in London. His love for music runs deep, and he recently composed a track called „Pushing On“ to coincide with the release of Altius, a premium vodka from the makers of Grey Goose. Elba’s passion for music and vodka shines through in his work, and he recently sat down with Esquire to discuss his creative process and the inspiration behind his latest project.
Growing up in London during the vibrant eighties, Elba was exposed to a diverse range of music that helped shape his creative identity. The era was a time of experimentation and innovation, with the rise of electronic music and disco. Elba credits his environment for fueling his excitement and curiosity as a creator, leading him to explore new sounds and ideas. His early exposure to DJing at the age of fourteen set him on a path of musical discovery, starting with vinyl records and eventually transitioning to digital formats.
Elba’s journey as a DJ has been marked by breakthrough moments and epiphanies, such as the art of scratching and mixing records to create something new. He describes DJing as a form of magic and hypnosis, where a single DJ can connect with a crowd through music and create a shared experience. His track „Pushing On“ reflects his continuous drive for growth and exploration, mirroring the evolution of Altius vodka as a premium offering in the spirits market.
When it comes to DJing, Elba’s favorite venues are intimate clubs with a great sound system, where he can play an eclectic set for a small crowd. Despite his global fame, he still enjoys the intimacy and energy of smaller venues where he can connect with his audience on a personal level. His love for Ibiza, a renowned party destination, stems from the vibrant atmosphere and music scene that the island offers.
In addition to his music career, Elba is also a fan of martinis, particularly enjoying them super dry with a twist of olives. His preference for a minimal vermouth martini reflects his taste for simplicity and elegance in his drinks. He jokes about his mother-in-law’s martini recipe, which consists of vodka and olives, and suggests getting her a bottle of Grey Goose Altius to enjoy.
Overall, Idris Elba’s passion for music and vodka shines through in his work as a DJ and composer. His creative spirit and dedication to his craft are evident in his tracks and performances, making him a respected figure in the music industry. Whether he’s spinning tracks in a small club in East London or composing a new song for a premium vodka campaign, Elba’s talent and passion for music continue to inspire audiences around the world.