Living the Dream: A Chat with MC B of N-Trance Ahead of the Kubix Tour
For anyone who grew up in the ’90s club scene, N-Trance’s “Set Your Free” was a track that signaled the end of an unforgettable night. But for MC B, the band’s newest member, the song was much more than just an anthem—it was a moment to wrap up his DJ sets and leave the crowd wanting more. Now, decades later, MC B finds himself performing that iconic track on stage with N-Trance, an opportunity he never could have imagined when he was first spinning records in the clubs.
Ahead of the Kubix tour, which promises to bring that same high-energy nostalgia to a whole new generation of fans, I caught up with MC B to talk about his journey with N-Trance, the evolution of dance music, and what it’s like to be back on the road with a group of artists who are all living their dream. It’s clear from our conversation that MC B is embracing every moment, from the exhilarating backstage rituals to the unforgettable energy of live performances. One thing’s for sure—he’s living proof that the best gigs are the ones you never see coming.
Here’s what MC B had to say about life on tour, the current state of dance music, and how he’s embracing the ride.
V: So, MC B, you’ve got a lot going on right now with N-Trance, especially with the Kubix tour coming up. I’ve got to say, it must feel pretty surreal for you, right? Joining N-Trance and now being part of a band that’s still rocking out after all these years…
MC B: Yeah, it’s absolutely mad. I mean, back in the day, I was a DJ, and “Set Your Free” was the track to finish a night on. You’d build up to it, and that was the one that had everyone on their feet. So, now, to be in the band playing that track in front of thousands of people—it’s crazy! You know, I never would’ve imagined I’d be part of this band. After Ricardo’s tragic passing, I got the call to come and join the band. It’s a real pinch-yourself moment. But, it’s happening! And the energy from the fans, the messages we get, it’s just incredible. It’s a bit surreal, but also humbling. I’ve just got to embrace it and enjoy it because you never know what tomorrow brings!
V: You’re definitely living the dream, MC B. Speaking of music, what’s your take on the current state of dance music? Are there any artists today who remind you of the ’90s vibe?
MC B: That’s a really interesting question. I was just talking about this the other day with some students. We were discussing AI and how it’s making its way into the music industry. From a performance perspective, I don’t think it’ll take over, but it’s definitely influencing things, especially with DJs. You’ve got people out there using laptops, memory sticks, even AI-driven drum machines to build their sets. So, yeah, it’s a big change from the old days!
As for new acts, there’s still a lot of remixes happening—especially from the original club scene guys. They’re remixing their tracks for a modern audience, which I think is pretty cool. You don’t see many new artists straight-up reusing the sounds of the ’90s, but the old guard is still going, keeping the vibe alive – remixing their own tracks!
V: Speaking of the Kubix tour, what’s the dynamic like with all the other artists you’re sharing the stage with? Is it different now than it was back in the ’90s?
MC B: Oh, absolutely. Back in the day, there was a lot more competition. You weren’t necessarily opening your arms to the other acts, you know? There was a bit of rivalry. But now? It’s completely different. Everyone is just so grateful to still be doing it. That old rivalry is long gone. We’re all just out here living the dream, doing what we set out to do—be musicians, be artists. And I think as you get older, you realise you don’t need to compete with anyone. You just focus on your own thing, and everyone else is doing the same. It’s turned into a really nice family vibe on these tours. We all get along, we have a laugh, we do our jobs, and that’s it. No more of those rock-and-roll days from the ’90s where there was drama. It’s a much more chill vibe now.
V: That sounds amazing. So, are there any fun backstage rituals or routines you guys share before the show?
MC B: Oh, for sure! I always take a bit of time to zone out before the show. I’m usually pretty calm before we go on, but I need to get myself pumped up, so I’ll do some shadow boxing to get the energy flowing. It’s a bit of a weird one, but it works for me! And then, the girls—when they do their vocal warm-ups, I can’t help but mess around with them. They make these hilarious sounds, and I always joke around, saying, “Are you calling pigeons or something?” It’s all in good fun.
V: Sounds like there’s never a dull moment with you guys. But what about standout moments from your career? Any shows that really stick out to you?
MC B: Oh, definitely! And I know this might sound like I’m sucking up, but the Kubix festival at Herrington Park was something else. I literally poked my head out from behind the curtain, and I could not believe how huge the crowd was. It just kept going, like, I couldn’t even see the end of it! Honestly, I got a bit nervous—I forgot all the words before we went on! I had to quickly listen to some tracks on my phone to get my head straight again. But once we hit the stage, the energy was unreal. We were buzzing, and the crowd was buzzing with us. It was just an insane show, one of those moments where you feed off their energy, and they feed off yours, and it just keeps building.
V: I can only imagine! So, for young producers who are trying to capture that classic ’90s feel in their own work without sampling, what advice would you give them?
MC B: Great question! I’d say, first off, figure out what you want your sound to be. Find the stuff that resonates with you—tracks that you love—and use them as reference points. Hold on to that feeling, that energy. And then, focus on sticking to the framework of the reference track. You don’t need to sample, but you can definitely take inspiration from what made those tracks special. It’s all about feeling, vibe, and energy. If you’ve got that, you’ll be on the right track.
V: Thanks so much, MC B. It’s been awesome chatting with you. You’re clearly so excited for the tour, and it’s amazing to see you living the dream!
MC B: No problem at all! I’m pumped for the tour—honestly, I can’t wait to get out there and see everyone. It’s going to be a blast!
Catch MC B with N-Trance at the Kubix Festival at the Utilita Arena this Saturday 14th December!