Anna Plasl and Sounddrive delve into the extraordinary musical journey, deep inspiration, exciting future ventures and spirit of prolific DJ and producer Hardwell
Few artists have left a more indelible mark on the ever-evolving field of electronic dance music than Hardwell. From electrifying performances on the world’s biggest stages to chart-topping productions, the Dutch DJ and producer is a beacon of innovation and inspiration for aspiring musicians and fans alike. Hardwell has proven time and time again why, with his meteoric rise to fame and unwavering dedication to his craft, he remains at the forefront of the world’s dance music scene. In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into Hardwell’s mind and heart as he discusses his musical journey, creative process and vision for the future. Get ready to be mesmerized by the sonic insight of his icon of true dance music.
Exclusive interview
Hi Robert, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today! I’m Anna from Sounddrive. let me tell you right away Great to see you back on stage and releasing music again.
“Thank you Anna. It means a lot to me and I’m glad you’re enjoying my new sound. It feels great to be back!”
Many people go to festivals, clubs, parties, see live DJs and want to pursue this career for themselves. But you’ve been performing long before you could legally attend an event on your own. After learning classical instruments as a child, what experiences led you to a career in electronic dance music?
“I was hooked after watching a documentary on the Dutch dance scene on MTV. I remember being just mesmerized by this new sound coming out of the TV as we were talking. ”
What was your “done” moment?
“When I signed my first record deal at the age of 14, it felt like a ‘done it’ moment. I remember feeling excited about the future. Playing at Tiësto’s famous Club Life party at Privilege, a crowded venue, was a real pinch early in my career.”
In 2022, you’re back on the main stage at Tomorrowland, Belgium, kicking off the show with one of your recent releases, ‘Into the Unknown’. What was it like to stand there, show off your latest act, and start your set with a track other than Big Room??
“It was a very emotional moment for me. I have a great connection with the audience at Tomorrowland, so it was a very special opportunity to be back with a new sound and the show. We built a custom production for that gig, making sure the whole experience was a unique show for our fans.”
As a very good artist, you’ve faced intense pressure to consistently deliver hit songs and unforgettable performances. How do you manage the fine line between pursuing your own artistic vision and meeting the expectations of your fans and the industry?
“Before I took a break from touring, I put a lot of pressure on myself to live up to as many people as possible. I’ve realized that it’s impossible to do that, so lately I’ve been focusing less on creativity and more on what comes out of that process.What should I aim for in my creative process?”
Your journey as a DJ and producer has inspired many, but behind the party and success, dig deep into yourself to test your resilience and ultimately lead to your break. What was the moment or experience that compelled you to do that?
“Time. I just wanted to make more time for myself, whether it was in the studio, hanging out with friends, spending time with my family. I felt the need to stay longer, so I decided to take a break from touring for myself.”
Throughout your career, you have had the opportunity to collaborate with many talented artists. Can you tell us about a collaboration that had a big impact on you on a personal level, and how it impacted your growth as an artist and as an individual?
“Every collaboration is a journey and an experience that teaches. Working with artists like Craig David and Jason Derulo, for example, is a great experience because they are very accomplished songwriters and artists. If you have a good chemistry with the artist and have a musical chemistry, the production process is very easy, so I have a lot of fun as a producer through collaborations like this and a lot of personal value. is finding.”
In the fast-paced world of music, it’s easy for artists to become disconnected from their true selves in terms of demands and expectations. How do you stay connected to your true voice and ensure that your music continues to reflect your true feelings and experiences?
“I’m a pretty down-to-earth, normal person. I’m not a fame seeker or into that kind of lifestyle. I still have the same group of friends I grew up with.” and I try to keep my life as regular as possible when I’m home, so I find this very helpful in staying true to who I am as a human being.”
Robert, you have explored different genres in your musical journey and captivated audiences with your versatility. So we are dying to know. What’s next in your adventure? Are you working on projects outside the music industry?
“Right now my focus is just enjoying my time in the studio and putting my energy into the new shows coming in 2023. I wanted to collaborate with.” I also enjoy making music with other people. There’s going to be new tracks that are more vocal driven with a bit of a change from their recent sound, so there’s still plenty of exciting music to come. ”
Thanks for giving me this insight. We look forward to seeing you at the Electric Love Festival.
“Thank you and see you on the dance floor! 😊”
Listen to Hardwell’s album “REBELS NEVER DIE” on Spotify
About Hardwell
Through an extensive career as a successful DJ, producer, remixer, label boss, filmmaker and philanthropist as a former two-time World No. 1 DJ, Hardwell has built a lasting legacy in the world of electronic music. I was.
His appeal as a producer has skyrocketed his status among fans and peers. Hardwell earned his Beatport No. 1 countless times with releases like “Spaceman,” “Apollo,” and “Run Wild” through his dance floor singles. He has remixed many big names in pop music such as Rihanna, Calvin Harris, Moby, U2, J He Balvin, Coldplay and many more. At the same time, he has performed with major artists such as Craig David, Jay Sean, Austin Mahone, and Jason Derulo, releasing crossover hit singles. And Hardwell never strayed from his own electronic roots, collaborating with friend DJs such as Armin Van Buren, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Steve Aoki, Afrojack and Tiësto.
As well as hits, Hardwell has a presence as one of music’s biggest main stage headline attractions, including Lollapalooza, Coachella, EDC Las Vegas, Creamfields, Untold Festival, EXIT Festival, Ultra Music Festival and Tomorrowland. Played at all important festivals. Due to his success on the stadium and arena circuits, Hardwell has won two world titles, ‘I am Hardwell’ in 2014/15 and ‘I am Hardwell – United We Are’ in 2015/16. Completed the tour. Hardwell’s career journey and life on tour with sold-out shows at venues such as London’s Brixton Academy and New York’s Madison Square Garden.
About sound drive
Headquartered in London, England, Soundrive is the leading global hub for electronic dance music (EDM), providing a wide range of news, reviews, interviews and features for DJs, artists and labels in 125 countries. Founded in Helsingborg, Sweden on 19 April 2016 by Jack Maurice-Julie and Darren Jonathan Bezuidenhout, the company was initially known as UFO Network and his label was UFO Recordz. In early 2023, Sounddrive Music LTD acquired the company and rebranded it to Sounddrive Music.
Dedicated to providing up-to-date, in-depth information about the world of EDM, Soundrive Music empowers aspiring DJs and artists to showcase their talents and advance their careers through events and collaborations with industry-leading players. We provide a platform for improvement. Soundrive Music is not affiliated with Soundrive Music Festival or Soundrive Records. For more information, please visit https://soundrivemusic.com/about.
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