MacDirectory Magazine

80 MacDirectory MUSIC Did you always know you wanted to be a DJ? DANNIC: I didn't always think I was going to be a DJ, or a producer for that matter. I was actually working in marketing before this took off as my job, which I actually really enjoyed, it still had creative elements to it which is super important to me; I don't think I could just do a 9-5 desk job! I started DJ'ing in the nineties, my first gigs were very small and I really learned about the craft from a basic standpoint and built up my individual knowledge at a little place called Caf é Bruxelles, in Breda, The Netherlands where I am from. That was the start of it all, really. When was the turning point in your career where you knew you made it? DANNIC: When I entered the Dancetour remix competition in 2009 and I was sent to play music abroad, that was my first ever show "professionally"—how crazy! How do you think your music has changed over time? DANNIC: I think I have always had that essence of melodies that the audience can really catch a vibe from, and for me groove is such a big factor and is something I freely let take hold within my productions and the music that we release on my label, Fonk Recordings. So I think, to answer your question, allowing whatever wants to come through to come through, not feeling restricted and letting my music take myself and my fans on a journey is, for sure, one way I've evolved. How would you describe your particular style of music? DANNIC: Groovy and funky house music! What do you think has influenced your music the most? DANNIC: I'm influenced by a lot of guys from many different genres. Michael Jackson's work influences me constantly, and Dutch guys like Fedde Le Grand that are legends in the Netherlands, always made me believe that to achieve magic in the studio and on-stage was possible. I was actually lucky enough to collaborate recently on a track we made together called 'Cocos Miracle' with Fedde, that was something of a huge moment for me. Is there someone you look up to, someone who inspires you? DANNIC: Peer-wise, that would be Fedde and my buddy Hardwell. He really showed me what it was like to come from a small town, work hard and become a trailblazer in the scene, he really does it like no one else! I have toured with him many times and performed in so many different places with that dude, his work ethic is impeccable and to be part of that journey with him makes me feel very humbled. What was your inspiration for your new single Stay? DANNIC: Thank you! Well, Inna and I collaborated after I was asked at a festival if I knew any Romanian artists and I said "Of course, INNA!" She's a super-cool artist with such an amazing, strong vocal that when I played her the original instrumental of 'Stay', I didn't know what direction she was going to take it in, but I knew we could make magic together. What do you think it takes, to differentiate yourself from the rest?

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