“I am not afraid of change,” Alkan considers. “I have faith that if I’m playing great records that people will connect to them, and I try to stay true to that.” Playing records comes easy to Erol, having spent the past two decades at it wherever possible, from a beginning sneaking out of his bedroom to fend off brutish American rock purists while spinning British indie records in small West End nightclubs, to his current club sets that explore the bleeding edge of underground, off-kilter house, techno and disco, albeit to a somewhat more enthusiastic audience.
Although his fundamental understanding of alternative and pop music has earned him acclaim as one of the world’s foremost remixers, nudging the likes of Tame Impala, Connan Mockasin and Metronomy further onto the dancefloor in recent years, it was only in late 2013 that Alkan finally released his own EP, Illumination. Although ‘Bang’ and ‘Check Out Your Mind’ delivered in Erol’s inimitable jackin’ and acidic styles respectively, it was the opener ‘A Hold On Love’ that captured the attention of the scene at large; A shimmering, melancholy anthem, accompanied by a reflective short film from Daniel Bereton, it unexpectedly hit the top of Juno’s ‘Deep House’ charts, reflecting Alkan’s ever-expanding musical palette. Further solo material is currently being trialled and tested for release sometime in 2015.
Meanwhile, through his label Phantasy, Alkan’s singular creative vision has gradually borne the most satisfying fruit in the music of others. Beginning as little more than a singles club for friends in 2007, it has since released music from the likes of Daniel Avery, Connan Mockasin, Ghost Culture, Babe Terror and Tom Rowlands of the Chemical Brothers, as well as Erol himself. Thinking outside of the perspective of a label head, Phantasy, entrenched in Alkan’s home city of London, is seen as a collaborative community effort by it’s founder.
“I like the feedback of people on the label. I don’t want to place myself at the top of the tree, because that’s not why I did it,” he is keen to explain. “I don’t look down on that, or see anything negative about it, but I didn’t set up the label for my career. I want everything on there to be on an equal plateau. I feel far more comfortable that way. To me, the aspect of community is far stronger than to simply be the one in the centre of the group photograph.”
As well as lending a helping hand across various releases on Phantasy, Alkan recently co-produced and mixed Ghost Culture’s self-titled LP, working with James Greenwood to establish Ghost Culture’s detailed, melodic sound that’s rooted in both pop and techno. A process not dissimilar to Alkan’s experimental assistance in bringing Daniel Avery’s universally acclaimed LP, ‘Drone Logic’ to life.
With Avery, Alkan has found a unique sparring partner when it comes to DJing, with the pair playing several incredibly well received back-to-back sets at festivals throughout the last twelve months, including Field Day, Parklife and I Love Techno. Exploring psychedelic and cutting edge techno and house in spaces not always suited to such subtlety, they also helped introduce Alkan to a fresh audience courtesy of his former protege, ensuring Erol keeps a whole new generation of kids dancing. Notable solo sets during 2014 include Glasgow's Sub Club, London's Fabric and a transcendent morning in control of Berlin’s Panorama Bar, which Alkan describes as “just a perfect place to play music.”
Despite his ongoing quest to keep things fresh, when the occasion arises, Alkan is happy to give his audience what they want, even if that’s not necessarily what they always expect. Among the ongoing development of Phantasy, the long awaited solo productions and a tireless DJing schedule, 2014 also saw the re-emergence of his much loved ‘Beyond The Wizard’s Sleeve’ alias. A decade long collaboration with Richard Norris, BTWS applies a psychedelic tinge and more often than not, an understated groove to an impressive list of alternative artists, such as Interpol, Tracey Thorn, and Midlake, as well a wildly progressive remix of Daniel Avery’s own ‘New Energy’.
Most impressively, Alkan and Norris also found a rapid ten days in which to re-animate Temples’ debut album, ‘Sun Structures' in it’s entirety. Suitably entitled ‘Sun Restructured’, it confidently takes the indie rock psychedelia of the original in vibrant new directions, while retaining the celebrated and quintessentially English style of the original recordings. The Guardian hailed it their album of the week, comparing it favourably to the much feted likes of Primal Scream’s classic, ‘Screamadelica’.
For all of his love of collaboration and nurturing new talent, Alkan is still more than at home alone behind the decks in a club near you, professing to be as excited about DJing as ever before. Despite playing in the club for over a decade, it was only this year that saw the release of his ‘Fabriclive 77’ mix, designed specifically for the London club’s cavernous main room, and featuring doses of Phantasy (including new Alkan track 'Sub Conscious', made especially for the mix) among music from compatriot labels such as LIES, Running Back and Optimo Trax. Critically acclaimed, it was hailed by The Ransom Note for its effortless combination of both “the peak time, and the cerebral.”
But after decades in clubs and in the studio, its on the radio where Alkan has found his most recent home, as a regular among the rotating cast of 6Mix residents on BBC Radio 6Music, besides the legendary likes of Andrew Weatherall, Jamie XX and Derrick May. Having begun his wireless career at the station in 2008, he now spends a quarterly Friday night exploring the new, often out-there records he makes it his mission to uncover, be it from friends, record shops or the promos he’s happy to work through. Each 6Mix accounts for a broad span of music, both for and beyond the dark, sweaty dance floors he still adores.
“Having the 6 Music show is great, because I can present music that I might not play out”, Alkan acknowledges. “But what happens in clubs, that’s where you can create real magic, especially when it comes to bringing people together. I find that to be the greatest thing about it as such, and view myself more as a vehicle for the music.”
Before long, it will be a decade since Erol Alkan shuttered his still dearly missed weekly London club night, Trash, at the peak of it’s popularity. But with it’s communal spirit still living on and evolving through Phantasy, and with a production and DJ schedule that’s as busy as ever, what’s the next objective for a man so determined simply to follow the instincts that have served him so well.
“I want to make great records, or be part of great records”, explains Alkan succinctly. “I cannot play music I do not believe in, and I don’t want to be someone I’m not.”
John Thorp
Never Stop
Erol Alkan Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
My position is missionary, I finish on top
And while you're relaxin', I take action
Guinness world record, I beat it, Michael Jackson
Never stop, I workaholic
Like spit sweat splatter Jackson Pollock
But I'm not an artist, I just work the hardest
Studio to studio, I drink juice,
Produce tons of new shit, like a booty hole
Show to show, full throttle, backstage,
No models, no bathroom, I piss in a bottle
And after the show a lot of autographs,
Man, music is a joke I try not to laugh
I just try to enjoy the grind
My position is doggy, I come from behind
Underground, underdog, underrated
Under stress, under pressure, under-appreciated
Man, this is war
Where careers get killed and that's not a metaphor, like
My mindset is military, like
My attitude is Hitchcock, very scary
Persistence, instincts,
Go the distance, prove my existence
That's why I never stop
'cause it's not Chilly, it's Lily, who makes really clever pop
I just do it in a different way
I'm kind of sort of indirect ricochet,
Chilly like Pinochet, I don't make hits, I take risks
And make flops like floppy disks
I still stay professional and not sloppy
I try to be original, not a photocopy
Can't stop, won't stop
Harder, faster better stronger, I listen to the robots
I'm still doing things, so don't cue the strings,
It ain't over 'til Beth Ditto sings
So how could I ever quit
My position? Don't fuck with me - celibate
Groupie go home, you can find another guy
Man, music is a joke, I try not to cry
Sounds crazy, but the underground's lazy
Maybe just a bunch of big babies
And they're crying 'til they're on the guestlist,
Then they puke at 6 am - English breakfast
See I always hatch a new scheme
No room for the club or a pub in my routine
I don't judge you if you're part of a true scene
But me? I could be anywhere - blue screen
At the Grammys getting nominated
Or trying to be a piano playing Larry David
Flirting with rap, workin' for Birkin
Behind your favorite singer I just might be lurkin'
And I'm certain when they close the curtains
My life will be a B-movie shot by Tim Burton
And if I lack authenticity
Remember authenticity is often shitty
So please, no pity,
You can never melt this ice-cold heart between my two titties
'cause what's life but a board game?
And if you play the game then you're never bored with more of the same
What's life but a competition
You know my name, I am bitten
I never stop
Do it again
The lyrics to Erol Alkan’s song “Never Stop” are a testament to the tireless work ethic of a hard-working artist. The song opens with the artist boasting of his skills, saying “My position is missionary, I finish on top”, a reference to his success and his ability to achieve greatness. He then goes on to describe his work ethic, claiming that he is a “workaholic” and that he produces “tons of new sh*t”. He also describes the difficult aspects of his work, such as performing shows without access to a bathroom, and the aftermath of performances, including autographs and the toll it takes on his body.
Throughout the song, the artist emphasizes his persistence and sense of purpose, describing himself as “military” and “scary”. He also acknowledges that the music industry can be brutal, where “careers get killed” and he must constantly work to remain relevant. Despite the struggles, the artist never considers quitting, saying “how could I ever quit” and “I never stop”. Additionally, the artist recognizes that authenticity is key, even if it means being “sh*tty”. He concludes the song with the sentiment that life is a competition, and that he will continue to work hard and persevere.
Line by Line Meaning
How could I ever stop?
I am dedicated and unstoppable in my pursuit of success in the music industry.
My position is missionary, I finish on top
I am confident in my abilities and I always come out on top in my endeavors.
And while you're relaxin', I take action
While others are complacent, I am always taking action toward my goals.
Guinness world record, I beat it, Michael Jackson
I am ambitious and competitive, and have achieved greatness that rivals even Michael Jackson.
Never stop, I workaholic
I never take a break from my work and am constantly striving to improve and achieve more.
Like spit sweat splatter Jackson Pollock
My work ethic is intense and passionate, and I put everything into my craft like Jackson Pollock put his all into his paintings.
But I'm not an artist, I just work the hardest
I may not consider myself an artist in the traditional sense, but I work harder than anyone else in the industry.
I beat it to a pulp, just ask Jarvis
I work so hard that I push myself to the limit, and those who have witnessed my dedication can attest to it.
Studio to studio, I drink juice,
I am constantly on the move, from one studio to the next, fueled only by my energy and motivation.
Produce tons of new shit, like a booty hole
I am constantly creating and producing new music, and my output is often compared to the unrelenting energy of a booty shaking.
Show to show, full throttle, backstage,
My schedule is packed with shows and performances, and I give every performance my all.
No models, no bathroom, I piss in a bottle
As a busy and dedicated musician, I sometimes have to make sacrifices, such as using a bottle instead of a bathroom in order to save time.
And after the show a lot of autographs,
Even after a long and demanding performance, I always make time for my fans, signing autographs and showing appreciation for their support.
Man, music is a joke I try not to laugh
Although music is my passion and career, I try not to take it too seriously and remain grounded in reality.
I just try to enjoy the grind
I find joy and fulfillment in the hard work and dedication required for success in the music industry.
My position is doggy, I come from behind
I may not have started out with all the advantages, but I work hard and never give up in order to achieve success.
Underground, underdog, underrated
I may be considered an underdog in the industry, but my potential and talent are underrated by those who underestimate me.
Under stress, under pressure, under-appreciated
The music industry can be a stressful and difficult place, and although I am under great pressure to succeed, I feel under-appreciated at times.
Man, this is war
The music industry is a fierce and unforgiving arena, and I am always prepared for battle in order to come out on top.
Where careers get killed and that's not a metaphor, like
In the music industry, many careers are destroyed by its ruthless and competitive nature.
My mindset is military, like
In order to survive and thrive in the music industry, I approach it with a disciplined and strategic mindset, much like a military operation.
My attitude is Hitchcock, very scary
I have a commanding and unsettling presence, much like the iconic film director Alfred Hitchcock.
Persistence, instincts,
Persistence and instinct are the keys to my success and survival in the industry.
Go the distance, prove my existence
I am constantly pushing myself to go the extra mile in order to prove my worth and make a name for myself in the industry.
That's why I never stop
My drive and dedication are unrelenting, and I will never give up on my music or my career.
'cause it's not Chilly, it's Lily, who makes really clever pop
My music is unique and clever, and sets me apart from other pop artists.
I just do it in a different way
Although my music is pop, I approach it in a unique and innovative way that sets me apart from the rest of the industry.
I'm kind of sort of indirect ricochet,
My music may seem indirect or unconventional, but it is nevertheless impactful and resonant with my audience.
Chilly like Pinochet, I don't make hits, I take risks
My approach to music is risky and unconventional, but that is what sets me apart and makes me stand out from the crowd.
And make flops like floppy disks
Like any artist, I may experience a few failures or flops, but I refuse to let them define me or discourage me from continuing to innovate and create.
I still stay professional and not sloppy
Despite my unconventional approach to music, I always remain professional and dedicated to my craft.
I try to be original, not a photocopy
I strive to be unique and original in my music, rather than following the crowd or copying the work of others.
Can't stop, won't stop
No matter what challenges or obstacles I may face, I will never give up on my music or my dreams.
Harder, faster better stronger, I listen to the robots
I am always pushing myself to work harder and faster in order to be the best, and I look to those who have achieved greatness in order to learn from their methods and success.
I'm still doing things, so don't cue the strings,
I am constantly creating and producing new projects, so it is not yet time to bring an end to my career by cueing the strings.
It ain't over 'til Beth Ditto sings
Until every aspect of my career is completed, including working with legendary artists like Beth Ditto, my career will not be finished.
My position? Don't fuck with me - celibate
I am unbeatable and unwilling to compromise or lose, and my commitment to my music and career is akin to celibacy.
Groupie go home, you can find another guy
Although my fans and admirers may be passionate, I am always focused on my music and career first and foremost.
Man, music is a joke, I try not to cry
Even though music is my life and passion, it can also be frustrating and disheartening at times, but I never let it break me.
Sounds crazy, but the underground's lazy
Although the underground music scene is associated with being passionate and driven, I have found that many musicians in that scene can also be complacent and unmotivated.
Maybe just a bunch of big babies
Some musicians in the underground scene act like children, seeking attention and validation without putting in the effort to create quality music or build a successful career.
And they're crying 'til they're on the guestlist,
Some musicians in the underground scene are focused on gaining popularity and recognition, rather than creating quality music or building a sustainable career.
Then they puke at 6 am - English breakfast
Despite their desire for success and recognition, some musicians in the underground scene are not able to handle the pressure and excess that comes with the music industry lifestyle.
See I always hatch a new scheme
I am always working on new ideas and projects, never resting or becoming complacent.
No room for the club or a pub in my routine
My dedication to my music and career leaves little room for frivolous activities like going out to clubs or pubs.
I don't judge you if you're part of a true scene
Although I may not be a part of the underground or alternative music scene, I respect those who are and understand the value of their contributions to the industry.
But me? I could be anywhere - blue screen
My career and projects take me to many places, both real and fictional, and I am always working on something new and exciting.
At the Grammys getting nominated
My hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and I have achieved recognition and success even at the highest levels of the music industry, such as being nominated for a Grammy.
Or trying to be a piano playing Larry David
My interests and talents extend beyond just music, and I am always looking to learn and improve in other areas, such as learning to play piano like the iconic comedian Larry David.
Flirting with rap, workin' for Birkin
I am always looking to expand my musical horizons and try new things, such as exploring rap music, while also working hard to achieve success in the industry, like the fashion icon Birkin.
Behind your favorite singer I just might be lurkin'
Although I may not always be in the spotlight, I am always working behind the scenes to create and produce incredible music that contributes to the success of other artists as well as myself.
And I'm certain when they close the curtains
When the time comes to end my career, whether by choice or circumstance, I am certain that I will have achieved greatness and left behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of musicians.
My life will be a B-movie shot by Tim Burton
My life and career have been filled with surreal and bizarre experiences, much like a film by the visionary director Tim Burton.
And if I lack authenticity
If some question whether my music is authentic or genuine, I am not concerned, as authenticity is often overrated and irrelevant in the pursuit of great music.
Remember authenticity is often shitty
Authenticity is not the only or most important factor in creating great music, and sometimes it can even be a hindrance to innovation and creativity.
So please, no pity,
I do not need or want anyone's sympathy or pity, as I am confident in my abilities and pursuit of success in the industry.
You can never melt this ice-cold heart between my two titties
Despite the challenges and pressures of the industry, I remain cool, confident, and focused on my goals and achievements.
What's life but a board game?
Life, like a board game, is a challenge and competition to be won, with both obstacles and opportunities to navigate along the way.
And if you play the game then you're never bored with more of the same
If you approach life and the challenges it presents with a competitive and strategic mindset like I do, you will never be bored or complacent, but will always be growing and improving.
What's life but a competition
Life is a fierce competition for success and happiness, and I am always striving to be the best and achieve my goals.
You know my name, I am bitten
My name is synonymous with success and dedication in the music industry, and I refuse to be bitten by failure or complacency.
I never stop
No matter what challenges or obstacles I may face, I will never give up on my music or my dreams.
Do it again
I am constantly creating, producing, and innovating in my music career, always pushing myself to do more and achieve even greater success.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: EROL ALKAN, JASON BECK, ALEX RIDHA
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind