In Interview with Hakma

Hakma
Author : Marco Sgalbazzini
May 28, 2020

In Interview with Hakma

It is no doubt that Hakma can be called a rising star of the French techno scene. He not only began a techno label and a collective of artists called Underklub in 2008, but he has worked with quality labels such as Zingerrecords, Polyptych and LAD Records.

A recognized figure of Parisian nightlife, especially for his residences at «Le Nouveau Casino» from2011 to 2017 and at “La Java” from 2008 to 2011, he also performed in the biggest French clubs and his talent too him to many foreign countries. He has shared the stage with prestigious artists such as Boris Brechja, Etienne de Crécy, Alex Stein, Maelstrom, Khainz, Molecule, Kiko, Housemeister and Thomas Schumacher. In 2018, after a two-year break because of the loss of his wife, he returned more productive than ever.

His desire to channel that tragic experience released a creative wave of inspiration. As a result, Hakma produced a stirring, melancholic and tuneful house techno. An inspiration to dance and liberate the senses. We sat down with Hakma to talk about the crisis, producing and his fresh out of the box release “Stronger.”

Hi Hakma. First of all – Were you involved in music at a young age?

No, I started music quite late, at 18. I don’t come from a musical family but from a very music-loving family!

What goals have you set yourself for this year and what are you most looking forward to?

I look forward to getting out a lot of quality EPs and get great gigs

Who or what first turned you on to DJing and producing?

I used to listen to a lot of young house music, it was the time of French touch and I was surrounded by DJs friends so it became automatic.

Why is Zinger Records the ideal home for your new release?

I was really looking for a label that suited me musically and Zinger has very good producers and is supported by great artists so I said to myself “this is for me!”

And how do you stay focused on music production at all these days of the crisis?

It was beneficial for me and the production. I made new sounds, worked my lives and made some videos so it was pleasant and productive.

Do you have any routines that keep you more productive as a producer?

I play in the evenings when children usually sleep, with a good beer!

Tell us something about you not many people know!

I was a resident of 2 famous techno clubs in Paris for 10 years (Le Nouveau Casino and La Java) so from there I made my reputation and my development. I am the father of 3 children so it does more work but I take care of myself! I’m well surrounded and I manage to devote myself to music.

What’s the one country you hope to visit one day?

I would like to return back to Tahiti and be able to play there again! It is a beautiful island and partying out there is great. It’s been so unforgettable. I’d love to go back there someday!

What else is in store for you in 2020?

I have new releases planned including an excellent 4 tracks on the very good POLYPTYCH label in August and gigs planned at the return of vacation if all goes well with the COVID-19.

 

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