Acclaimed DJ and music producer Hardwell has a truly successful career in the world of music. From signing his first record deal at 14 and collaborating with other artists like Tiësto, Jason Derulo, Craig David and Afrojack, whilst also remixing tracks for artists like Rihanna and Example. He has completed two world tours titled I Am Hardwell, closing the first at a sold out Madison Square Garden and the second world tour at the famous Hockenheim circuit in Germany. From holding residencies in Las Vegas at Hakkasan and Omnia to Ushuaia in Ibiza. He is also no stranger to the festival scene having played some of the biggest and best festivals around the world including Ultra Music Festival, Creamfields, Tomorrowland, EXIT, Coachella, EDC, Lollapalooza and Sziget festival. “I’ve been blessed in my career and I feel now is an opportunity for me to help make a social impact. So whilst it has been a whirlwind journey so far but it feels like I’m only getting started.”
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What would you say is your best attribute, and why?
I’d like to think my good ear for music is one my best attributes. It’s an inherent part of who I am. I’ve dedicated my life to music and it’s a big factor behind my drive and determination. I have a burning desire for making music and sharing that music so I hope anyone that gets to know me can see that music is an important factor of who I am as a person and as an artist.
What was your first gig?
My first gig was on the biggest stage of all…or at least it felt the biggest stage to me at that time! I was only 12 years old and my friend asked me to DJ at his birthday party. I practised for weeks and was super nervous to start with but two records in it felt like I’d being djing all my life. I loved it and it started what became my life and passion.
What’s the first album you ever bought?
One of the earliest albums I ever bought was Dr Dre’s 2001 album.
Favourite collaboration?
Working with artists is a unique experience so it’s impossible to really compare because you walk away from it having opened new creative ideas, which is what I love. Working with US singer/songwriter Austin Mahone on our recent record ‘Creatures of the Night’ was a lot of fun. It’s fun collaborating with somebody outside of your own music space. Austin’s background is pop and mine electronic music so the combination worked really well.
How do you get festival-ready?
I like to have a little time to relax and chill out my tour team. It’s a moment for me to get prepared, ensure I’ve got all my music ready and get myself in the right frame of my mind for a great party!
Who or what inspires you?
Fans, travelling and music. I love being a touring DJ because I get to combine all these things into my daily life.
What’s your idea of a perfect date?
A night out in the beautiful island of Ibiza, eating at a great restaurant.
What’s your favourite drink?
I’m happy with a beer or a diet coke.
What fills the spot at the top of your dream destination list?
Would love to visit Fiji. A spectacular paradise setting and what better way to unplug from the world and recharge the mind and body.
Do you have any regrets when it comes to past relationships?
I’m not somebody who lives with regret. You have to learn from experience and become a better person otherwise you’ll never grow.
Who is your style icon?
I don’t really have a style icon, to be honest. I like to find my own identity with fashion.
What instantly attracts you to a woman?
I’m a very grounded person so it has to be somebody with a good character, who is strong in their own mind and with their own decisions and who also has a fun outlook on life!
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