HEERHORST

Introduction 151

For Introduction 151 we have the honor of welcoming the Techno-legend Heerhorst, who's been one of our favorite producers for a long time. Enjoy his high-energy mix and make sure to read his insightful interview!

DIT KLINGT JUT · Introduction 151 | Heerhorst

Hey Basti, it's a pleasure to have you! What stands out when looking at your history of making music is that you've covered a diverse set of genres throughout your career. How did you arrive at the Peak-Time Techno sound you produce today?

"Hi, thank you for having me! I’m glad you appreciate my diversity in music. I started to make music in the mid 90s with hard- and psytrance, which was very popular at that time. I had my first proper release 10 years later, which was a minimal techno track. After that, I launched my Fukkk Offf project, which was more electro house oriented. I had a lot of fun with that project and I got to remix artists like Rammstein and Moby. But when EDM got big, I felt like I needed a change. I decided to go back to techno, which was my first love. I also like to produce different styles of techno, such as melodic, indie, raw- and hard techno. I don’t like to limit myself to one genre. I like peak-time techno because it combines all these elements and it gives me a lot of energy and creativity. It’s the sound that suits me best right now."

How do you get into a creative flow?

"My creative flow starts with a lot of coffee and some references that spark my imagination. Then I work as quickly as I can and avoid getting sidetracked by details, sound design or other stuff that could slow me down. I follow my gut and stick with the first idea or version that pops up in my head, because I believe it’s usually the best one."

What do you love most about being an artist?

"Being an artist gives me the freedom to be my own boss and express myself creatively. Music is more than a hobby for me, it’s my profession. But I don’t let that limit me or compromise my vision. I balance between doing what I love and pleasing my customers. For my own art, I always face challenges and doubts, but that’s what makes me grow as an artist: experiencing the highs and lows of the creative process."

What fascinates you about your art from?

"My art form fascinates me because it always keeps me on my toes and challenges me to grow. It’s a journey that never stays the same or gets stale, but adapts to my mood and inspiration. I love seeing how much I have improved over time and how much more I can achieve."

What can we expect from you in the near future?

"The near future is full of surprises for me. One of them is a release on Drumcode, which will drop on May 5th. It’s a big achievement for me. I have also been busy with other projects, such as releases, remixes, collaborations and some gigs. I’m also working on a new live show that will blow your mind. And I’m bringing back my other alias “Fukkk Offf” with some hard-hitting 150BPM hard techno. Rave is not dead ;)"

Most profound insight you had since you started this career?

"Since I started this career, I realized that the music industry is not what it seems. It’s a fake and shallow world where originality and talent are often overlooked and exploited. Promoters are more interested in booking social media stars than artists who make their own music. I don’t blame them, but I don’t respect them either. As Hunter S. Thompson put it: “The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free and good men die like dogs. There’s also a negative side.”