Get to know: Anna Tur

If there’s anyone who defines the word ‘multitasker’, it’s Anna Tur. Some may be familiar with Tur through her role as manager of Ibiza Global Radio while others may have seen her in action working the soundsystems of world-renowned club institutions like Pacha, Amnesia and Blue Marlin to name a few.

As a native of Ibiza, Tur is one of the few electronic artists who’s grown up on the island and has remained an intrinsic part of the White Isle’s continually evolving culture - something she discusses with us in depth ahead of her set at Egg LDN this Saturday for DJ Mag Sessions Pres Sight.

Living and breathing electronic music since throwing herself head first into the industry in 2010, we caught up with Tur to look back at the highs and lows of her career, her current stance on the ever-changing island she calls home and what she’s got lined up during a jam-packed summer schedule of radio production, DJing, pilates and more…

As the manager of Ibiza Global Radio, you’ve interviewed a plethora of high profile artists from Carl Cox to Luciano to Moby. How do you feel before such pivotal moments in your radio career? How do you prepare for these interviews?

The truth is that it is exciting to close your eyes and remember the unforgettable moments I’ve enjoyed at Ibiza Global Radio. Each one of them is obviously a special artist with their own personality. Interviewing artists, from the guys at the bottom to the guys at the top is pretty much always a pleasant experience.  During my first years, I used to be nervous before interviews and they were actually conducted by the station’s radio DJ team. That said, ever since I decided to take on the role myself I’ve found myself in some incredibly special moments. I’ve nothing but maximum respect for anyone who does it. 

Working in radio can mean long hours, a tight schedule and solid preparation both behind the scenes and in the radio booth itself. How do you balance your IGR work with DJing and life on the road? We’ve seen how a chaotic lifestyle can really take its toll on artists… 

Honestly, I sometimes feel absolutely exhausted and that I dedicate my life to working. although I live in Ibiza, I rarely if ever get a chance to grab a towel and go for a swim in the sea. If I am at the beach, it’s usually for a lunch event or a meeting. This is unfortunate, and besides this, I get off the airwaves, get on a plane and am in the station every Monday. But I don’t really know any different either, and I don’t know of any other way that the station can be managed! I’ve been working as the general director of the company for 14 years now, and at the same time, I dedicate my artistic side to these sweet moments. 

I’m involved in every aspect of the day-to-day running of the station, from its values to its attributes to its perception. It is a radio station made with a team of people who feel it’s good for their soul - and it really maintains a family vibe too. The free time I do have I spend with my family and closest friends and play a sport. I’m also a big walking and pilates person. Peace and harmony is very important to me. 

As a native of Ibiza, you must have witnessed how the island has evolved musically as well as the increase of lavish parties, hiked up ticket costs, outrageous drink prices and the influx of a more commercial, money-driven approach the behind parties which are a far cry from the more hedonistic approach to events on the island during the early 90’s…What do you make of these changes and have they affected the outlook of your hometown? 

We could have a very broad debate on this subject, but what I will say now is that the situation on the island is becoming untenable. For the residents, the companies, the doctors, the police, those who come in search of an opportunity, the tourists and the island itself. I don't recognize my island.

We have sold it, we have put aside the hedonistic soul and spirit, purity and a sense of freedom. I can't find a way to put an end to this and I have the feeling that the government and authorities of the island itself don’t only not know our market, but also don’t want to know. 

There are more restrictions than ever for leisure companies, not only discos but also beach clubs and restaurants. On the other hand, the big constructions on the coast are growing and growing and it seems that anything goes. The way we're overcrowding the buildings is what's causing me the most pain. 

As for the musical aspect and the leisure offer, my perception is that times are changing and we have to adapt to the present generation, to their tastes and needs. In music, fashion, art... the past is always present.

The influences of life are reflected in the sound we transmit at every moment. You have to respect everything, I will never judge someone for playing a different sound than mine. A lot of people do that and I don't like it at all.  

You’re set for a huge summer schedule this year which includes multiple shows at Marco Carola’s event, Music On. How did you meet Marco and how would you describe ‘Music On’ to someone who has never been? 

Obviously, I admire Marco hugely and I have followed his career closely for a long time now.  He is not "very accessible" in the media (on radio or tv), and in 14 years he has joined us at Ibiza Global Radio no more than 5 times, so any time I’ve seen him play it’s usually when he’s performing live. That said, he really is a great pro and someone worth learning from. 

My relationship with the ‘Music On - Its all about the music’ family really begins with my friends Ernesto Senatore and Roberto Postiglione, who decided to bet on me when the concept was first born. I am eternally grateful and happy for this opportunity.

I have been lucky to meet and be close to this great family: Luca, Salvatore, Davide, Toto, Angelo, Miro... and of course the artists who make up this amazing group.

Music On is fun, features good music, is visually impactful and boasts spectacular performances. It’s also a family, a way of living - and a brand that is tattooed on the skin of many people on this planet!

In addition to Music On, you’re also joining the likes of Pete Tong, Luciano and Apollonia at various dance music haven across Europe. This is the stuff young producers dream of, have you got any advice for those looking to delve into DJing, production or radio in order to join these line-ups one day? 

Honestly, I still have to pinch myself to realise I'm not dreaming. To play with these kinds of figures that you admire is wonderful, it is still strange for me to see myself next to these names on posters of great festivals and parties.

A lot of work, talent, love and passion are fundamental in this path. Also having a lucky break, being in the right place at the right time is an extra and important boost. Work hard!

It will be your first time playing at Egg LDN on 19th May, what’s special about playing for a crowd in London? 

The truth is that I love London, its people and its public. My first time in the city was with ‘It´s all about the Music’, four times over the last months. This time it's at Egg LDN and I'm incredibly excited about the experience of playing in this legendary club.  

Leave us with a track that you consider to be one of the most crucial records ever made?

Kraftwerk - "The Model”… a classic and a track that marks the beginning of the electronic music revolution.