Belgian DJ and producer Hoax (BE) has swiftly emerged as a notable figure in the electronic music scene, blending afro-house, melodic house, and deep techno to craft emotive soundscapes. His releases on labels such as Sony Belgium, HoTL Records, and Thrive Music have solidified his reputation for genre-mashing prowess.
In this interview, Hoax (BE) delves into his global inspirations, the evolution from a professional football career to full-time music production, and his approach to creating tracks that resonate both in personal listening and on the dancefloor. He also shares insights into his creative process, including the integration of AI tools, and reflects on the importance of fair record deals for emerging artists. As he prepares for another season in Ibiza, Hoax (BE) continues to push boundaries, connecting with audiences worldwide through his dynamic and heartfelt music.
Electronic music is global, but every scene has its unique vibe. Are there any cities or countries whose energy has particularly inspired you?
I think living in Ibiza is very unique because over the summer you meet people of so many nationalities and so many people from different countries that come under the same roof to dance and I think this is the most inspiring situation ever.
Your tracks often strike a balance between intricate melodies and driving rhythms. How do you ensure your music works both in headphones and on a dancefloor?
I am really into vocals and I think a good vocal will make you listen to a song on your headphones at the same time making a melody that is not cheesy will make it appealing for the dance floor.
If you weren’t making music, what do you think you’d be doing instead? Was there ever an alternate path you considered?
Believe it or not, I have been a professional footballer for most of my life so football (soccer for Americans) would’ve been my other option, but now I am dedicating full-time into music. If you google my real name “Tibo Van De Walle” you can find some articles of my football days!
Live performance and DJ sets are key to connecting with fans. How does your approach to performing influence the way you produce tracks in the studio?
Well, obviously, I think it’s very important to test out the tracks that you are producing from the studio to the club because once you play a song in the club, you can hear if it’s sounding good, if it needs to have some changes done and it’s the best way to also see the reaction of the crowd which I think is super important to produce something that is enjoyable. Also you may get different reactions from different crowds, so the club test is super important.
From remixing global hits to producing original afro-house tracks, your portfolio is diverse. How do you decide whether a project will be a remix or an original piece?
I like to keep my options open, so I’m into music that is not super commercial but at the same time I like to have opportunities that put me together with people that will progress myself in the music ladder. I think the remixes I’ve been doing are very true to myself and my sound, and even if the songs that were remixed were quite commercial, the outcome is something I’m very happy about.
“Dost Banke”, for example, is a very commercial song from India, and the artists involved are legendary. I think my version maintains the overall vibe of the song, but it’s something you can easily play in a DJ set.
Do you have a pre-show ritual or routine that helps you get into the right mindset before a performance?
Sushi!!!! Before every show I have sushi, because it is the perfect meal that fills you up but at the same time, is not too heavy. I am quite the connoisseur of sushi places around the world now! 😉
The afro-house scene has been thriving in recent years. What do you think sets the genre apart, and how do you keep your sound fresh in such a competitive space?
I think the way to make this successful is to integrate melodies with vocals that people are very familiar with. So in my DJ sets I always play some of my famous edits and at the same time more clubby tracks.
Music production is as much about technical skill as it is about inspiration. Are there any tools, plugins, or techniques you rely on to craft your signature sound?
I use a lot of AI tools like Moises and Samplette to get inspired and creative. For techniques I learned a lot of shortcuts to make my workflow better and efficient.
In your opinion, what’s one thing the music industry could do better to support artists and foster creativity?
Especially at the beginning, better record deals for up and coming artists. I am very happy and grateful for the opportunities I am getting with the labels I am working with at the moment but I know up and coming artists have always contracts that do not benefit them at all, and that makes it very hard to actually work full time on music.
Looking ahead, what’s on your bucket list as an artist? Are there any dream collaborations, festivals, or projects you’d love to tackle?
I am very happy at the moment and I just try to take in everything that happens. I am also very looking forward to moving back to Ibiza from May till September.