Hardwell: The UK Has One Of The Best Scenes Anywhere

The world's number one DJ finds time in his hectic schedule to answer a couple of our questions.

Jimmy Coultas

Date published: 10th Jul 2014

Photo: Hardwell // Credit: Joep van Aert fotografeert

Responsible for headlining the world's biggest festivals and EDM feasts, the mighty Dutch producer and DJ has enjoyed his first year at number one in DJ Mag's defining poll, making him regarded as the World's Number One.

His 'I Am Hardwell' shows too have been selling out in super quick time, as he takes his relentless brand of big room EDM to the masses right across the globe. Somewhere in all that frenzy, Hardwell has found chance to speak to us, as we find out his thoughts on Croatia, what he has lined up for his return to Creamfields, and his life as the world's number one.

Croatia is fast becoming THE place to party. You'll be headlining Ultra Europe Festival there again this July. What do you think of the country and the crowds?

I love Croatia. My last time in the country the crowd was so lively and so passionate. There’s a lot of excitement in the scene there. So much is happening in the country right now, it’s kind of becoming a cheaper alternative to Ibiza.

How has life been as the official No1 DJ in the world? Are you confident in retaining your crown this year?

Life is extremely busy right now as I’m touring loads and also working on a lot of new music. Of course I would love to be voted for a second year but if it doesn’t happen that’s fine. I wasn’t expecting to be voted the first time, as much as I dreamed about it and really wanted it to happen, so I’m very honoured and humbled the fans voted me their #1 DJ in the world.

You'll also be playing at Creamfields this summer. Is the UK somewhere you particularly enjoy playing?

Absolutely! The UK has one of the best scenes and the crowds there are some of the maddest you’ll find anywhere. Creamfields is a highlight for me, I love playing there (see some highlights of his set there last year below), the vibe and organisation of the event is second to none.

It’ll be one amazing festival this year I’m sure and I’m really excited to be bring my Revealed arena to the festival too.

What do you think separates your live DJ sets apart from others and makes them so popular?

I can't compare my sets to anyone else's. I can only speak about my own but for me I pour all my energy into my shows. Every time I go up to DJ I want it to be the greatest set I’ve ever played.

I work tirelessly to create a new and fresh experience for the fans with new music and creative ideas. I incorporate a lot of my own music and special edits and mashups in my sets. It’s about giving a full show to rock the dancefloor.

And finally, hypothetical question… You have the power to throw the ultimate rave. You can play alongside any DJ from the past or present. Where would you have it, who would be on the bill, and what track would you play to define the evening?

The venue would definitely be back home in Breda, so I could share it with all my friends and family.

The line up would be -

Daft Punk
The Prodigy
Swedish House Mafia v Revealed Family (Hardwell, Dyro and Dannic)
Gouryella (Tiësto & Ferry Corsten)
Fedde Le Grand
Chuckie