Interview With Alan Fitzpatrick

Alan Fitzpatrick talks techno, creativity, and future projects. Discover the journey of this electronic music pioneer and his impact on the dance music scene.

Interview With Alan Fitzpatrick
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  • PublishedAugust 2, 2024
  • Reading Time: 11 Minutes

Who is Alan Fitzpatrick? He’s a techno powerhouse who’s been shaking up dance floors and airwaves for over a decade. Born in Southampton, this UK-based artist has carved out a unique space in the electronic music world, becoming one of the most sought-after DJs and producers in the techno scene.

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He’s headlined at the legendary Berghain in Berlin, a feat that many electronic artists only dream of. But what sets him apart is his ability to cross boundaries. Not content with underground success alone, he’s also managed to score a hit on daytime BBC Radio 1, proving his versatility and broad appeal.

In the techno world, Alan Fitzpatrick‘s name carries serious weight. He’s not just another DJ; he’s a tastemaker, an innovator, and a driving force in the genre. His raw, hard-edged sound has become his calling card, but his ability to evolve and experiment keeps fans and fellow artists alike on their toes.

We at Techno Airlines had the privilege of sitting down with Alan Fitzpatrick for an exclusive Q&A interview. In this candid conversation, we delve into his creative process, the challenges he’s faced, and his vision for the future of techno music. Get ready for an inside look at the mind of one of electronic music’s most influential figures.

Interview With Alan Fitzpatrick
Alan Fitzpatrick / Source: Wikipedia

The Journey of a Techno Pioneer

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s rise to the top of the techno scene is a story of passion, perseverance, and raw talent. Starting out in Southampton, England, Alan Fitzpatrick quickly made a name for himself with his distinctive sound and energetic performances.

But how did he get his start? Alan Fitzpatrick‘s early days were spent honing his craft in local clubs and underground venues. His unique blend of hard-hitting beats and melodic undertones caught the attention of both audiences and industry insiders. It wasn’t long before he was playing at some of the UK’s most prestigious electronic music events.

As his reputation grew, so did his reach. Alan Fitzpatrick soon found himself rubbing shoulders with the giants of the techno world. He’s shared decks with legends like Carl Cox and Adam Beyer and collaborated with rising stars such as Lilly Palmer and Reinier Zonneveld. These connections not only expanded his network but also influenced his musical evolution.

What truly sets Alan Fitzpatrick apart is his ability to maintain his underground credibility while achieving mainstream success. He’s one of the few artists who can claim to have both headlined Berghain – the holy grail of techno clubs – and had a hit on daytime BBC Radio 1. This crossover appeal speaks volumes about his musical versatility and broad-based popularity.

Today, Alan Fitzpatrick stands as one of the most popular techno DJs in the world. His presence at the top of the genre is undeniable, with a loyal fan base that spans continents. But how does he view his own journey? In his own words:

I just try to write what excites me, and hopefully, this music will resonate with people. My style is always full of energy, and I like to always have a groove.

This approach – focusing on what excites him rather than chasing trends – has been key to Alan Fitzpatrick‘s longevity and success in the ever-changing world of electronic music.

Musical Versatility and Collaboration

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s musical repertoire is as diverse as it is impressive. While he’s primarily known for his raw, hard-edged techno sound, his artistic range extends far beyond this signature style. This versatility has been a key factor in his enduring success and popularity.

At the core of Alan Fitzpatrick‘s sound is his ability to craft pulsating techno tracks that resonate on dance floors worldwide. His releases on Adam Beyer‘s renowned Drumcode label have become anthems in their own right, showcasing his knack for creating powerful, driving rhythms that captivate audiences.

But Alan Fitzpatrick isn’t content with being pigeonholed. He’s equally at home producing disco-infused house anthems that bring a different energy to his performances. This ability to switch gears and surprise his audience keeps his sets fresh and unpredictable.

Taking his experimental side even further, Alan Fitzpatrick has ventured into the world of electronica under his 3STRANGE alias. This project allows him to explore more abstract and ambient soundscapes, demonstrating the depth of his musical vision.

Collaboration has been another cornerstone of Alan Fitzpatrick‘s career. He’s worked with an impressive array of artists across the electronic music spectrum. Some notable collaborations include:

  • CamelPhat: Merging Alan Fitzpatrick’s techno expertise with CamelPhat’s house sensibilities,
  • Skream: A meeting of minds between two UK electronic music pioneers,
  • Sasha: Blending Alan Fitzpatrick’s energy with Sasha’s progressive house legacy,
  • Rebūke: Creating high-octane techno tracks that push boundaries,
  • Jamie Jones: Fusing techno and tech-house elements for unique dancefloor moments.

When asked about his collaborative process, Alan Fitzpatrick shared:

I like to do short bursts in my studio, and I work on multiple things at any one time. I can sometimes work every day and other times just a couple of days in a month. It depends how I’m feeling and how much I have been touring.

This flexible approach to creation allows Alan Fitzpatrick to stay productive while maintaining the quality and innovation that his fans have come to expect.

Looking ahead, Alan Fitzpatrick shows no signs of slowing down. He has upcoming collaborations with techno heavyweights Lilly Palmer and Marc Houle, which are set for release in the coming months. These projects, along with a slate of releases on prestigious labels like Cocoon, Drumcode, Filth On Acid, and Armada, promise to further cement his status as a leading figure in electronic music.

“We Are The Brave”: Alan Fitzpatrick’s Label and Events

In addition to his prolific production and DJ career, Alan Fitzpatrick has made significant waves in the industry with his record label, We Are The Brave (WATB). Launched as a platform for forward-thinking techno, WATB has quickly become a go-to imprint for both established artists and emerging talents in the scene.

The label’s ethos mirrors Alan Fitzpatrick‘s own musical philosophy – pushing boundaries while maintaining a strong connection to techno’s roots. WATB releases range from hard-hitting club tracks to more experimental pieces, all united by a commitment to quality and innovation.

But We Are The Brave is more than just a record label. Under Alan Fitzpatrick‘s guidance, it has evolved into a brand encompassing groundbreaking events and showcases. These WATB label nights have become some of the most anticipated dates on the electronic music calendar, featuring lineups that read like a who’s who of techno.

Some of the venues that have played host to We Are The Brave events include:

  • The Warehouse Project, Manchester: A series of events in one of the UK’s most iconic club spaces,
  • Shine, Belfast: Bringing WATB’s cutting-edge sound to Northern Ireland,
  • Watergate, Berlin: Showcasing the label’s talent in the techno capital of the world,
  • SWG3, Glasgow: Delivering unforgettable nights to Scotland’s passionate techno crowd,
  • Fabric, London: Takeovers at one of the world’s most famous nightclubs.

These events not only provide a platform for the label’s artists but also allow Alan Fitzpatrick to curate experiences that align with his musical vision. The success of these showcases speaks to both the strength of the WATB roster and Alan Fitzpatrick‘s keen understanding of what makes a memorable night out.

When asked about the impact he hopes to have through his music and events, Alan Fitzpatrick replied:

I hope I bring people that come to my shows some positivity and a release from the obvious pressures of life.

We Are The BraveThis sentiment underscores the importance Alan Fitzpatrick places on the communal aspect of electronic music – creating spaces where people can come together, let loose, and find joy through shared experiences.

As We Are The Brave continues to grow, it stands as a testament to Alan Fitzpatrick‘s influence and vision within the techno community. The label not only serves as a platform for his own music but also as a launchpad for the next generation of electronic music talent.

Inspiration and Creative Process

What fuels the creative engine of a techno titan like Alan Fitzpatrick? Our exclusive interview gave us fascinating insights into his sources of inspiration and approach to music production.

Contrary to what one might expect, Alan Fitzpatrick‘s wellspring of creativity often lies outside the realm of contemporary dance music. He shared,

I take inspiration from so many things. Very little of my inspiration comes from modern dance music.

This unexpected revelation highlights Alan Fitzpatrick‘s unique perspective and explains the fresh, innovative quality of his work.

So, where does he find his muse? Fitzpatrick elaborated,

I can be most inspired from going for a walk in nature or watching a movie. The most of it comes from everyday life.

This grounding in the ordinary and the natural world infuses his music with a relatable quality despite its often intense and complex nature.

When it comes to his creative process, Alan Fitzpatrick adopts a flexible, intuitive approach. He explained,

I like to do short bursts in my studio, and I work on multiple things at any one time.

This method allows him to maintain a sense of spontaneity and prevents creative stagnation.

Interestingly, Alan Fitzpatrick‘s productivity isn’t tied to a rigid schedule. He noted,

I can sometimes work every day and other times just a couple of days in a month. It depends how I’m feeling and how much I have been touring.

This ebb and flow in his creative routine reflects the dynamic nature of his career as a globe-trotting DJ and producer.

But what’s the driving force behind his musical output? Alan Fitzpatrick summed it up succinctly:

I just try and write what excites me, and hopefully, this music will resonate with people. My style is always full of energy and I like to always have a groove.

This focus on personal excitement and maintaining a groove has clearly struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

One track that holds special significance for Alan Fitzpatrick is “Take Control“. Created during lockdown with his son Mylo, this piece represents a unique moment in his career, blending personal connection with musical creation.

Looking ahead, Alan Fitzpatrick has ambitious plans to evolve his live performances. He shared,

I hope to put together a hybrid live show this year ready for festival season 2025; this would be a fun challenge.

This goal demonstrates his ongoing commitment to pushing boundaries and providing fresh experiences for his audience.

Overcoming Challenges in The Industry

The path to success in the electronic music industry is rarely smooth, and Alan Fitzpatrick‘s journey is no exception. In our interview, he opened up about some of the significant challenges he’s faced and how he’s navigated them.

One of the most impactful events in recent memory was the global health crisis. Alan Fitzpatrick candidly admitted its effect on the industry and his own work, describing it as something that “kind of messed everybody up mentally and creatively“. This period of upheaval forced many artists, including Alan Fitzpatrick, to reassess their approaches and find new ways to stay creative and connected with their audience.

Another ongoing challenge Alan Fitzpatrick highlighted is the pressure to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry. He explained,

Trying to stay focused and in your lane is always hard with the pressures of wanting to stay relevant, navigating social media, and the constant demand for content.

This struggle between artistic integrity and market demands is something many creatives grapple with, but it’s particularly acute in the fast-paced world of electronic music. Alan Fitzpatrick’s solution?

I try and stay off social media as much as possible now.

This conscious decision to limit his social media engagement allows him to focus on what truly matters – creating music that excites him and resonates with his audience.

Another hurdle Alan Fitzpatrick mentioned is the demand for constant content creation. In an age where artists are expected to be not just musicians but also content creators, finding a balance can be challenging. Alan Fitzpatrick‘s approach seems to prioritize “quality over quantity“, focusing on meaningful interactions through his live shows and music releases rather than maintaining a constant online presence.

Despite these challenges, Alan Fitzpatrick‘s career continues to flourish. His ability to adapt, stay true to his artistic vision, and maintain a connection with his fans has allowed him to navigate the industry’s ups and downs successfully. As he looks to the future, including plans for a hybrid live show, it’s clear that Alan Fitzpatrick‘s innovative spirit and resilience will continue to serve him well in overcoming whatever challenges lie ahead.

Alan Fitzpatrick - Performing
Alan Fitzpatrick

Connection With The Audience

For Alan Fitzpatrick, the relationship between the artist and the audience is paramount. Throughout our interview, it became clear that his connection with fans goes beyond simply playing tracks – it’s about creating experiences and fostering a sense of community.

When asked about how he communicates with his audience, Alan Fitzpatrick was unequivocal:

The best and only true way to do this is at my live shows, really.

This statement underscores the irreplaceable value of in-person performances in electronic music. It’s in these moments, amid the pulsing beats and electric atmosphere, that Alan Fitzpatrick truly connects with his fans.

But what makes an Alan Fitzpatrick set so special? It’s the energy and groove that he infuses into every performance. As he puts it,

My style is always full of energy, and I like to always have a groove.

This commitment to maintaining a high-energy, groove-driven sound ensures that his sets are not just heard, but felt.

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s approach to music production also plays a crucial role in his audience connection. He explains,

I just try and write what excites me and hopefully this music will resonate with people.

This authentic approach to creation allows listeners to connect with the genuine emotion and excitement behind each track.

The impact of his music and performances goes beyond mere entertainment. When questioned about the role of his art in society, Alan Fitzpatrick shared a heartfelt goal:

I hope I bring people that come to my shows some positivity and a release from the obvious pressures of life.

In a world often filled with stress and uncertainty, Alan Fitzpatrick sees his music as a source of joy and escape for his audience.

This desire to uplift his fans is evident in the atmosphere of his shows. Whether he’s playing at a massive festival or an intimate club night, Alan Fitzpatrick strives to create an environment where people can let loose, connect with others, and momentarily forget their worries.

It’s worth noting that Alan Fitzpatrick‘s connection with his audience extends beyond the dancefloor. Through his label, We Are The Brave, he’s fostering a community of like-minded music lovers and providing a platform for emerging artists. This multi-faceted approach to audience engagement demonstrates Alan Fitzpatrick‘s commitment to nurturing the techno scene as a whole.

As electronic music continues to evolve, artists like Alan Fitzpatrick, who prioritize genuine connections with their audience, are likely to stand the test of time. His ability to balance artistic innovation with crowd-pleasing performances ensures that fans keep coming back for more, eager to be part of the unique experience that is an Alan Fitzpatrick show.

Conclusion: Techno Airlines’ Interview With Alan Fitzpatrick

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s journey in the world of techno is a testament to his unwavering passion, innovative spirit, and ability to connect with audiences worldwide. From his early days in Southampton to headlining major festivals and clubs, Alan Fitzpatrick has consistently pushed the boundaries of electronic music while staying true to his artistic vision.

Throughout our interview, it became clear that Alan Fitzpatrick‘s success stems from a combination of factors. His versatility as a producer allows him to create everything from hard-hitting techno tracks to disco-infused house anthems. This range not only keeps his music fresh and exciting but also appeals to a broad spectrum of electronic music fans.

Alan Fitzpatrick‘s approach to creativity is refreshingly genuine. By drawing inspiration from everyday life and focusing on creating music that excites him personally, he’s able to produce tracks that resonate deeply with listeners. This authenticity shines through in his performances, where his energy and groove create unforgettable experiences for his audience.

The launch of his label, We Are The Brave, has further cemented Alan Fitzpatrick‘s influence in the techno scene. Through WATB, he’s not only releasing his own music but also providing a platform for emerging talents, thus shaping the future of the genre.

Despite the challenges the music industry has faced in recent years, Alan Fitzpatrick has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. His ability to navigate the pressures of staying relevant while maintaining artistic integrity is admirable. By focusing on what truly matters – creating quality music and connecting with fans through live shows – he’s managed to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Looking to the future, Alan Fitzpatrick‘s plans for a hybrid live show and upcoming collaborations with other techno heavyweights suggest that his innovative streak is far from over. As he continues to evolve as an artist, it’s clear that Alan Fitzpatrick will remain a driving force in the techno scene for years to come.

Also, make sure to follow him on Instagram.


Key Takeaways

  • Alan Fitzpatrick‘s versatility as a producer spans from hard techno to disco-infused house.
  • His label, We Are The Brave, is a platform for both established and emerging techno talents.
  • Inspiration for his music comes primarily from everyday life rather than other electronic music.
  • Live performances are central to Alan Fitzpatrick‘s connection with his audience.
  • Future projects include collaborations with Lilly Palmer and Marc Houle, and plans for a hybrid live show.
  • Alan Fitzpatrick maintains his creativity through a flexible studio approach, working on multiple projects simultaneously.
  • He views his role as bringing positivity and release to people through his music and performances.

As Alan Fitzpatrick continues to shape the techno landscape, fans and industry insiders alike eagerly anticipate what this innovative artist will do next. One thing is certain: the journey of this techno legend is far from over.

Alan Fitzpatrick - in The Studio
Alan Fitzpatrick / Source: Mixmag

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Techno Airlines

Founded in 2018, Techno Airlines is an online music publisher and community platform that is dedicated to exhibiting the worldwide techno music genre. Techno Airlines creates a service ecosystem and content for more than three million music fans per month by combining high-quality videos, music, and content with online tools.

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