Interview With CLAPTONE
Discover the enigmatic CLAPTONE in our exclusive interview, revealing insights into his career, creative process, and the magic behind The Masquerade.
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.
Who is CLAPTONE?
CLAPTONE is more than just a DJ; he is a phenomenon in the world of house music. Emerging from the shadows with his mysterious persona, he quickly gained traction with his unique sound and unforgettable performances. Despite his concealed identity, CLAPTONE‘s impact on the music scene is unmistakable. Born out of the rich electronic traditions of Berlin, his journey from local clubs to global stages has been nothing short of spectacular.
His trademark Venetian mask adds an air of mystique to his performances, creating an immersive experience for his audience. This visual element, coupled with his innovative approach to music, has made CLAPTONE a household name among electronic music enthusiasts.
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CLAPTONE’s Career Highlights
CLAPTONE‘s career is studded with numerous highlights. From headlining major festivals like Tomorrowland and Coachella to his iconic residency in Ibiza, his presence is ubiquitous in the world of electronic music. One of his most significant achievements is the creation of “The Masquerade“, a series of spellbinding events that have drawn massive crowds across the globe. These events, known for their theatrical flair and vibrant atmosphere, have become a hallmark of CLAPTONE‘s career.
His discography is equally impressive, featuring chart-topping tracks and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry. Hits like “Cream“, “No Eyes“, and “Heartbeat” have cemented his status as a leading figure in house music. His remixes of tracks by artists such as Mark Ronson and Michael Kiwanuka have further showcased his versatility and creativity.
The Masquerade
The Masquerade is more than just a series of events; it celebrates music, art, and mystery. Born at Amnesia in 2016, The Masquerade quickly became one of Ibiza’s most beloved parties. With performances featuring world-class DJs like Diplo, Fatboy Slim, and John Summit, these events have set a new standard for nightlife entertainment.
In 2024, The Masquerade returns to its roots at Amnesia, promising an unforgettable season filled with fresh artists, incredible production, and captivating theatrics. This year’s lineup includes exclusive B2B sets and performances that reflect Ibiza‘s rich musical heritage.
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Golden Recordings
Expanding his influence beyond the DJ booth, CLAPTONE launched his own label, Golden Recordings. This label is dedicated to celebrating the golden era of house music, releasing tracks that embody the genre’s timeless spirit. With hits like “The Big Easy“, “Flashdance“, and “Euphoria“, Golden Recordings has quickly gained recognition in the music industry.
The label’s latest release, “Come With Me“, continues this tradition, offering a fresh take on classic house music. As CLAPTONE states, Golden Recordings is about honoring the past while pushing the boundaries of house music.
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Behind The Mask
While CLAPTONE‘s public persona is shrouded in mystery, his personal life is equally fascinating. Known for his eclectic taste in music and extensive vinyl collection, CLAPTONE draws inspiration from diverse sources. Artists ranging from Billie Eilish to Depeche Mode have influenced his sound, reflecting his broad musical palette.
In his rare downtime moments, CLAPTONE enjoys life’s simpler pleasures. His love for collecting vinyl and exploring new genres is a testament to his relentless pursuit of musical perfection. Despite the demands of his career, he remains grounded, finding joy in the connection he shares with his audience.
Our Exclusive Q&A Interview With CLAPTONE
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 dancefloor 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.”
Conclusion: CLAPTONE’s Q&A Interview
CLAPTONE‘s journey is a testament to the power of passion and creativity. From his early days in Berlin to his global success, he has remained true to his vision, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music. His story is one of continuous evolution, driven by a deep love for music and a desire to connect with his audience.
In this highly exclusive Q&A interview, we’ve delved deep into the enigmatic persona of the man behind the mask. CLAPTONE‘s profound insights into his creative process, eclectic inspirations, and intriguing future plans provide a rare and fascinating peek into the mind of one of the most influential figures in electronic music.
In conclusion, CLAPTONE‘s story is about passion, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, making him a true icon in electronic music.
What do you think? Do you have anything to ask CLAPTONE, or have we missed anything? Let us know in the comment section below.
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