Calvin Harris

OMNIA Nightclub’s electronic superstar.

Photo courtesy of Gavin Sond/Hakkasan Group

Calvin Harris ruled both the airways and turntables in 2014. The Scottish DJ and producer’s latest studio album, Motion, not only produced the swim season mega-hit, “Summer,” but his follow-up singles, “Blame” and “Outside,” also landed on the charts, making him the first artist ever to have three songs simultaneously in the top 10 of Billboard’s “Hot Dance/Electronic Songs” chart. This year, Harris is taking up residency at OMNIA Nightclub inside Caesars Palace.

DID YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ARTIST GROWING UP?

When I was eight [in 1992], Jamiroquai released their first album. They were at the forefront of a new sub-genre known as acid jazz. I heard their singles and was obsessed. I begged my mum to get me the CD. That was the first album I owned. [The group] began my lifelong obsession with bass lines.

WHERE DOES THE INSPIRATION COME FROM WHEN SONGWRITING?

Your surroundings really influence the material being produced. Luckily, almost everywhere in the world gets dark at night. That feeling of solitude you get alone in a small room after midnight really helps writing the sort of lyrics I like. I strive to write lasting songs that mean something and connect with people emotionally. It’s a myth that you can’t create something with depth that you can also party to.

WHY IS LAS VEGAS SUCH A GREAT CITY FOR ELECTRIC DANCE MUSIC (EDM)?

The magic of Vegas is found at night, so it’s no surprise the club scene is such an integral part of the city. The way music has grown in Vegas reflects the rest of America.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE THE RISE OF DANCE MUSIC IN THE U.S.?

Make no mistake: People were partying; they were just listening to a different kind of music. It’s not a case of catching up. Every country has its own reasons for enjoying the music they do at a certain time. It just took a while for dance music to evolve to a state in which America was ready to embrace it on a larger level.

WHAT MOST EXCITES YOU ABOUT OMNIA?

It has the biggest dance floor in Las Vegas! It’s exciting because the club is designed to create a special experience for every single person in the building.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOU IN 2015?

I’m working again with John Newman on his new album. He sang “Blame” on mine. I’m also experimenting using my own voice on some songs, like I did with “Feel So Close” and “Summer.” I just had an album come out at the end of last year, so I’m in the trying things out stage again right now.

Omnia Nightclub