Main stage headliner at Ultra in the house
We know that the WMC is more about profile and the party rather than business deals, is it the most important date on the dance calendar still?
“Miami is just something you can’t miss. It’s the years gathering of each and everyone in the dance music bizz. For me Miami has been great every year, meeting new people and for me it’s getting more interesting as I created a platform for my label. Also the scenery of Miami Beach makes it a little break for everyone in a relaxed atmosphere.”
As thousands of next generation clubbers descend on the big events, do you feel the spirit of house music is being lost to a crowd looking for that instant anthem hit?
“I don’t think people are looking for just one hit record. It’s great to see the gigantic rise of house music over the past years. I think it’s a good thing that the US is discovering something we have been experiencing in Holland for many many years.”
Have you had to change your musical direction in the last year?
“Every producer is always evolving his sound and I can’t really put my sound in one genre so it has always been very diverse.”
Is Miami losing it’s trademark cool and sexy house music vibe?
“Miami seems to get bigger every year, this year it has even more days than before. It’s good to see all genres of house music coming together in South Beach. Nothing wrong with that I think.”
What are your thoughts on the Dennis Ferrer ‘Mansion’ Miami club story – he was basically kicked off the decks for not playing commercial enough…
“Didn’t know about this story but it is a shame to hear. I think you should always respect the DJ/artist no matter what!”
With clubs and charts being dominated by dance music worldwide, shouldn’t we be rejoicing it’s success rather than being bitter with crossover?
“Bitter? Nothing to be bitter about, crossover puts dance music on the map, worldwide!”
The party you looking forward to the most?
“Playing main stage of the Ultra Festival on Saturday of course. I’ve got so many new tracks to play! The crowd at Ultra is something special, the energy is just beyond amazing! But I also look forward to my own label night Hardwell Presents Revealed in the SET on Friday. Showcasing the label with its artist and I have invited good friends Porter Robinson and the Bingo Players – will be a highlight for sure!”
What are your buzz tracks for WMC 2012?
I just finished a new track with Dannic called “Kontiki” which is doing very well in my sets right now. Furthermore this bomb track, Dyro & Rene Kuppens “Raid”
Have you noticed a big dip in industry folk not attending these last couple of years?
“It seems to me its only getting more crowded. Of course some people might not come because the business deals are not made in Miami anymore, but for networking Miami is still the place to be in March!”
What are your thoughts on the IMS in ibiza? Will you be attending?
“It’s good to see a great alternative like IMS! I won’t be attending though got a fully booked schedule, but will be on Ibiza this summer for sure!”
