'I don’t want to just throw in a sitar sample as a token'

There’s nothing regular about Norman Cook, better known as Fatboy Slim. He’s formed and/or been part of six bands, and he can play the drums, the guitar and sing as well. The British DJ, singer-composer, who’s performing for the first time in India, opens up to TOI.
On the EDM scene in india and the larger influence of Bollywood
Obviously, I have been aware of the scene in Goa for many years, but musically, it was always about trance, which isn’t my scene.I’ve only heard about the electronic dance boom, so here I am, possibly late but ready and willing! I think you (India) should be proud to have a thriving domestic music industry based on your own culture. Not everybody can say that. So many countries just import American or English pop music and local musicians cannot make a living. Viva Bollywood!
On possible collaborations with Indian artistes
I figure I have been invited because of what I do best, so I will come with that idea. Having said that, if I meet people along the way or am inspired by local music, then who knows? I don’t want to just throw in a sitar sample as a token!
On dealing with a different audience
I have played in countries in the past where the dance culture didn’t really connect with their culture (China and the Arab Emirates were a struggle, for instance). Equally, though, I’ve been to places like Taiwan, where we didn’t think it would translate, and everybody went nuts!
On being a doting dad and having his kids rebel against pop
I think I’m an adequate dad. My job means that I can’t be there 100% of the time, but they are used to it and are growing up happy and well-balanced, I think. I’m not encouraging them to be musicians, and they don’t seem that interested. I suppose part of pop music is about rebelling against your parents, so they rebel by ignoring it!
On dealing with the pressure of being a public figure
I have no problems travelling or living in England. The only people who recognize me are the people who like me, so it’s (being mobbed or dealing with fans) not a bother.
On his journey from norman quentin cook to Fatboy Slim
I was always hiding behind different names so that I could have more than one record out with more than one style of music. The anonymity worked fine until Fatboy Slim came along and engulfed all the other personas and taking up all my time and creativity. Also, for the first time, it was my face selling the music and now everyone knows who I am and what I look like.
On the possibility of hosting big beach boutique in India
Yes, why not? But we need to get sponsors. I feel India has a huge market for electronic music and an effort like the Big Beach Boutique will definitely be a hit.