Paul Thomas on Godskitchen, Global Gathering, and breaking through in the golden era

In this episode of The Dexter Jones Podcast, I sit down with Paul Thomas to explore the passion, obsession, and sheer graft behind one of the most recognisable journeys to come out of the UK trance and superclub era. Paul takes us back to his first real spark with dance music during the Trainspotting era, running record shops, discovering vinyl culture, and developing the all-consuming obsession that shaped his career. We talk about the moment that changed everything: sending a demo mix to Godskitchen, landing his breakthrough residency, and the now-legendary night when he quite literally set a speaker on fire. From there, the conversation opens up into the reality of sudden success. Touring the world alongside Tall Paul and Marco V, life inside Global Gathering, and what really went on behind the scenes at the UK’s biggest club brands. Paul also reflects on production, running his own label, the changing music industry, and how AI is beginning to affect creativity today. Alongside the highs, he speaks candidly about imposter syndrome, luck, pressure, and the relentless work required to build a long-term career in electronic music. This is not a hype story. It’s an honest account of timing, talent, and persistence. If you ever wondered what it really took to break through during the Godskitchen and Global Gathering era — or what DJs coming up in 2025 need to understand now — this episode is essential listening. 🎧 Take your time with this one. We talk about: 🎶 Discovering dance music during the Trainspotting era 💿 Record shops, vinyl culture, and musical obsession 🔥 Sending a demo to Godskitchen and landing a residency 🌍 Touring globally and the reality of sudden fame 🎪 Life behind the scenes at Global Gathering 🎵 Production, running a label, and creative evolution 🤖 AI in music and the future of production 💡 Advice for DJs and producers in 2025 🧠 Passion, luck, imposter syndrome, and longevity Track mentioned: Are You Out There – Crescendo Released in 1995 on FFRR Records, produced by Jon X Crosse, this dark, euphoric progressive trance anthem became the first dance track ever broadcast from Ibiza on BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix and topped the UK club charts for weeks. For guest invitations, sponsorship proposals, and collaboration enquiries, please contact Dexter: [email protected]