By A-S Coulson

Techno Airlines interview Claptone

By A-S Coulson

Techno Airlines interview Claptone

TECHNO AIRLINES sit down with CLAPTONE for an exclusive Q&A interview ahead of The Masquerade x Amnesia Ibiza residency.

In the electrifying world of electronic music, few names command as much intrigue and admiration as CLAPTONE. Known for his enigmatic presence and signature Venetian mask, CLAPTONE has captivated audiences worldwide.

This Q&A interview delves into the life, career, and creative process of this extraordinary DJ and producer, offering fans a glimpse behind the mask.

Q1: What inspires you the most in your life, and how do you incorporate these sources of inspiration into your creative process?

Answer: “It’s the mystery and allure of the night, the pulse of the dance floor, and the energy of those around me. Sometimes, it can be the smallest of things that inspire me, from sounds in the night and things people say right through to a sample that just connects. Other artists inspire me, too, from Billie Eilish to Nine Inch Nails, the Doors to Depeche Mode, Jungle to Gang Starr – the list goes on! I have over 10,000 vinyls in my collection, and I feel that embracing myself with so many genres has helped me perfect my direction. For me, there is nothing more magical than the connection between myself and the crowd when I test new music… If the track clicks and connects with the audience with great energy, that’s when I know I have created something truly special, and that is at the forefront of my process.”

Q2: What period or event in your artistic journey has had the most significant impact on you?

Answer: “I think it was the first time I visited Ibiza. I remember seeing all the greats, particularly Carl Cox, going to all the clubs and falling in love with the island, the music, and the scene. Ibiza, for me, is a place where magic happens. It’s not just the stunning beaches or the sunsets, though those are incredible. It’s the energy, the vibe that permeates the island. There’s something liberating about Ibiza — it’s a place where music is the heartbeat, and every night feels like a celebration of life itself. The mix of people from all over the world coming together for the love of music creates a truly unique atmosphere. I try to make music that encapsulates this vibe.”

Q3: Which three words would you use to describe your life, and why?

Answer: “I’d have to say: Exciting, evolving, and tired. Exciting, because my journey through music has been filled with incredible moments and experiences that I never could have imagined – from Tomorrowland to Coachella to having a residency in Ibiza for seven years. Evolving, because my life and career have been a continuous process of growth and transformation. I’m always exploring new sounds, pushing my boundaries, and finding new ways to express myself through music – but sometimes, it’s hard to keep up! Tired, because despite the excitement and evolution, this life’s relentless pace and demands can be exhausting. The constant touring, performing, and striving for perfection take their toll; sometimes, it feels like I’m running on empty. But it’s a labor of love; I wouldn’t trade it for anything. So, word number four would definitely be LOVE.”

Q4: How has your artistic approach or style evolved over time?

Answer: “I have learned a lot over the years, from the harder techno sounds of Berlin and Milan to the house of Ibiza and even from the more garage scene of the UK. Not to mention disco, downbeat, funky breaks, big beat, easy listening, electro, blog house, deep house – you name it. Throughout this journey, one thing has remained constant: perfectionism. I have always battled with making sure every release is perfect. Whether it be released on Golden Recordings, as part of our album, or even as a club edit or remix, for me, it will always be quality over quantity. Although it feels like the music scene is being pressured away from this, it is the way that is authentic to me and will continue to the day that I hang up my mask for the last time.”

Q5: How often do you get a weekend off?

Answer: “Not often enough!”

Q6: What are your thoughts on the role and impact of your life in society?

Answer: “The only impact I seek to have is spreading a little happiness by getting people moving on the dance floor wherever it may be in the world! Everyone goes out to a club, festival, or show to lose themselves from work and the everyday pressures. If people buy tickets to see me help them with this, that would be my biggest honor. It is easy to take yourself too seriously in this very competitive music industry and forget that we are all doing it for fun! And -not to forget- in big part also to achieve personal happiness by making music. I make music to express myself, keep the balance, and stay sane and content.”

Q7: What are you most looking forward to in the future?

Answer: “Well, in the near future, I am excited for all of the shows we have lined up this summer. As I am used to it, it’s going to be very busy across all continents! I can’t wait to be back on the White Isle with my new residency of The Masquerade at Amnesia on Tuesdays. This will be launching on the 25th of June 2024 with Solardo, David Penn, Ferreck Dawn, and a very special B2B with Boys Noize. I also look forward to another year of throwing The Masquerade pre-parties at legendary Cafe Mambo. After Coachella this year, I’ll be returning to Tomorrowland and many more amazing festivals this summer and my residencies at Cavo Paradiso, Mykonos and Phi Beach, Sardinia, and Club Revellin, Dubrovnik. Last but not least, I’m having lots of special The Masquerade events in the pipework all over in 2024.”

Q8: What is CLAPTONE’s real identity? It’s rumored that there are multiple Claptones. Would you like to comment on this?

Answer: “Yes, under the mask, it’s actually Nelly Furtado and Brad Pitt — but don’t tell anyone.”

Q9: Why does CLAPTONE perform with a mask?

Answer: “Without it, I might feel rather naked. Imagine: I’ve had it on since 1346 AD, and over the centuries, I have just become rather fond of it.”

Read the full interview HERE.

 

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