City Nomads Radio: DJ CHIDA Talks 30 Years in the Tokyo’s Underground Scene & His Upcoming Set at ‘Road to Sunda’
PUBLISHED September 19th, 2024 01:00 pm | UPDATED October 4th, 2024 02:25 pm
For over 30 years, CHIDA has been a central figure in Tokyo’s underground house and techno scene. Known for his marathon DJ sets and the highly respected Ene Records, he’s a DJ’s DJ—an artist whose career is built on pure skill and passion for the craft. We had the chance to chat with CHIDA ahead of his much-anticipated performance at Road to Sunda, where he’ll be spinning for three hours, taking the crowd on a journey through house, disco, funk, and beyond. In this edition of City Nomads Radio, CHIDA reflects on his journey, the evolution of the Tokyo scene, and what continues to inspire him after decades behind the decks.
Give CHIDA’s mix a listen as you read along!
A Glimpse into Road to Sunda
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Get ready for a one-day-only dance music extravaganza as Road to Sunda hits Singapore on October 5, 2024, bringing the electrifying vibes of Sunda Festival to Haw Par Villa’s Former Villa site. Created by the brains behind Sunda Festival—Ice Cream Sundays and Hong Kong-based creative agency, FuFu Creative’s Florian Melinette—this event is a sneak peek into the magic of Sunda Festival 2025. Expect a killer lineup of Asia-Pacific’s most exciting DJs and live acts, from Jakarta’s experimental Precious Bloom to Tokyo’s legendary DJ CHIDA, plus local heroes like Ramesh, Jenn Chunes and many more. More than just music, Road to Sunda promises a full sensory experience with creative art installations, wellness activities, and a food and drinks menu inspired by bold Asian flavours.
Arrive before 4pm to snag free oat coffees and delicious soft serve, made with Oatly’s 100% plant-based oat drink products! And from 12pm–1pm, catch Silver Hour where the first 100 punters will get a complimentary can of refreshing Heineken Silver. Oh, and the first 500 beers will be served with a free collaborative Heineken Silver beer sleeve designed by Natasha Hassan!
And if you’re not ready for the party to end, the official afterparty at Tuff Club will keep the beats going till 4am. With limited tickets starting at S$73, this is the festival you don’t want to miss—grab yours now here. Get 10% off using code [NOMADS10] for Advance and Last Chance tickets (not including bundles).
“I Have No Idea How To Live Without Music”
Music, for CHIDA, is deeply ingrained in his identity. His love for music began when he was just 18, frequenting clubs and collecting house music records. What began as a hobby quickly evolved into a passion for DJing, particularly during his university years in Tokyo, where he teamed up with college mate DJ KENT (aka The Backwoods/Force of Nature). Together, they honed their skills, playing in the buzzing nightlife of Shibuya. For CHIDA, the early days of Tokyo’s house and techno movement were special. Back in the ’90s, DJs didn’t have the convenience of USBs or streaming platforms. Each DJ set was built on a unique collection of records, painstakingly curated through regular trips to record stores. As CHIDA puts it, “Collecting records was more important than paying for an apartment.” It was a time when DJs’ individual styles were defined by their crates of vinyl and mixing skills—a period that deeply shaped CHIDA’s approach to music.
Despite the rapid mainstreaming of house and techno in recent years, CHIDA has remained rooted in the underground scene. He acknowledges the seismic shifts that have occurred since his early days, noting how technology has made it easier for aspiring DJs to break into the industry.
“Since 1992 when I got into this industry, everything has changed so quickly. The biggest difference is that everything is getting easier. Everyone can start DJing with USB, and produce music with an iphone, laptop. That makes everyone can be a DJ/producer so quickly and easily. But I still enjoy digging records and also checking new stuff online. Easy to find what I really want on bandcamp.”
The Marathon DJ Sets That Made Him a Legend
One of the most fascinating aspects of CHIDA’s career is his ability to perform marathon DJ sets. Since 2013, he has played seven-hour sets in Japan and Berlin, and these lengthy sessions are a true test of endurance, both for the DJ and the audience. However, for CHIDA, the energy of the crowd is what sustains him. His selection process is highly intuitive, driven by the mood of the room and what the dancers need at any given moment. The blend of genres in his sets, ranging from house to disco, funk, and even rock, adds an element of surprise that keeps his performances fresh and unpredictable.
“I’ve been playing for many kinds of venues and diverse people. So, I’m always playing different DJ sets. I always love surprising people with unexpected music choices and mixing. For example, playing dark techno after old disco.”
CHIDA’s adventurous spirit also comes through in his work with Ene Records, the label he founded in 2009. He started the imprint to provide a platform for new artists and help disseminate cutting-edge music. Over the years, Ene has released tracks by an eclectic mix of talents, including Psychogem, Lord Of The Isles, Tiago, and The Backwoods. Although the label has been quieter in recent years, CHIDA is preparing to relaunch with new material from his circle of collaborators. His vision for the label remains as strong as ever—supporting artists and keeping the underground scene alive.
What to Expect at ‘Road to Sunda’
CHIDA believes that festivals like Road to Sunda play a vital role in fostering community within the music scene. These in-person festivals are where the shared experience of music can forge meaningful relationships and energise the scene. He loves the challenge of playing for diverse crowds in different settings and using these gatherings as an opportunity to surprise the audience with unexpected musical moments. For his upcoming performance at Road to Sunda, CHIDA is excited to showcase both his favourite new tracks and timeless classics.
“I think local events like Sunda Festival play an important role in revitalizing the scene & connecting people / DJs / musicians. And It is much more important to connect and empathize with people at a real party than it is to have virtual relationships.”
Lessons From the Decks: Reflections and Advice
Looking back on his career, CHIDA is clear about one thing: music can change lives. Whether through his DJ sets or his work with Ene Records, CHIDA understands the power of a shared musical experience to uplift and transform. For younger DJs and producers entering the industry, his advice is simple but profound: “Life is very short. Keep doing your own thing.” It’s a mantra that has guided him through decades of change and continues to drive his creative journey today.
Keep up with CHIDA here.
All images courtesy of CHIDA.
