As the world joins together for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, Coca-Cola has invited artists from around the globe to jointly depict what this monumental occasion means to them. The extraordinary alliance of visual and music artists from different lands started with eight blank canvasses of aluminum contour bottles - and eight corresponding themes reflecting the possibilities for happiness and connection from both the Coke Side of Life platform and the current global gathering in Beijing.

Listen to Kaskade Beautiful World mp3 -
Go get Adobe Flash Player!

Q&A with…Kaskade

How would you describe your song, “Beautiful World,” and its meaning?

I really tried to think what the athletes give up in order to get where they are, in the Olympics. The hours of training and sacrifice to make it to that level of competition is amazing to me. The song is about that idea, how people have to give up the little things in order to achieve their goals - in this case, the Olympic Games.

What elements of the special aluminum contour bottle design most inspired you?

I thought it was so cool how Coke wrapped the bottle with the art to create more of a canvas-type feel.

What was your creative process for developing the song?

When I was first contacted to write some music for this project, I thought about the Olympics and how much I enjoy watching them. I thought about the athletes and how they have to put aside the small things to be able to focus on the greater goal of performing to the best of their ability. This also holds true in life, as I tried to not be bothered by petty things and learn to focus on the real things that bring me happiness. Once I had the concept for the song, I worked with Marcus Bently (vocals) and Finn Bjarson (bass, guitar) to round out the sound and achieve what I had envisioned.

How long did it take to create your song?

Once I got the initial concept, it moved pretty quickly. I would say three full days in the studio.

Has any of your other music been inspired by artwork or designs?

Typically, I am inspired by life experiences, but so much of that takes place in the city that I live, San Francisco. The city itself has a lot of interesting architecture and design that create the template for me to be inspired.

What inspired you to become a musician/artist?

There are so many reasons. This has always been my passion, to create music. When I was young, the music was there for me and kept me out of trouble.

What other cultures, if any, have inspired your music?

Japan is my favorite place to visit. Tokyo has to be one of the most-interesting cities on the planet. I have spent a good amount of time studying the language and culture of Japan and I am always inspired when I visit there.

How do you connect with the world?

I am constantly on tour and I always try to take in the sites and sounds of the local environment. It has been a great opportunity to see things that I would have never seen.

What role does music play in bringing people of different cultures together?

Music is a universal way to communicate. A song can say so much more than just the words that are sung - it can convey emotion. This breaks down the communication barriers and lets everyone enjoy the art, regardless of where they are from.

Have you ever traveled to or performed in China?

I have not been to China, but I look forward to sharing my music with them.

What is your favorite part of the Olympic Games? Favorite Olympic event? If you were going to compete in the Olympic Games, what sport would you like to try?

Track and field has always been fun to watch. If I were to compete, I would go for the snowboarding. When I am not in the studio, I try to get some of that in.

What is your favorite Coca-Cola product?
Another Diet Coke, please!

Links:
Benny Benassi Happiness Factory mp3
Tiesto Global Harmony mp3
Coca Cola we8