Producing, DJ’ing, and running his own record labels, HORATIO is a seasoned connoisseur of getting people to move their bodies. Active since the 90s, the veteran producer/DJ has kept his finger on the pulse of dance music, showing a distinct blend of stylistic fusions of electronic music. Recalling sounds that attract listeners worldwide, HORATIO’s releases have found homes with important labels such as ARMADA, KNEADED PAINS, CODEX, SHODAN, ORANGE RECORDINGS, GLOBAL UNDERGROUND, UNDR THE RADR, STEALTH, RENESANZ, IAMT, and Natural Rhythm. HORATIO proves once again that he deserves his place within these imprints known for their techno specialties, with an added organic swirl.

A few days ago HORATIO’s new single “In Silence” was out on CODEX! So, let’s talk!

ー Hello, HORATIO! We are happy to see you on the pages of Tune in Mag! How are you? Where in the world are you currently located? What interesting things are happening in your life right now?
ー I’m doing really well, thank you! I’ve recently emerged from a dark period in my life, and now I’m back to hitting the gym and feeling more energized than ever. I split my time between Romania, specifically the city of Bacau, and Ibiza town. Both places offer unique experiences and opportunities that enrich my life and work. There’s a whirlwind of excitement happening in my life at the moment! I’m fortunate to be landing dream gigs, nearing completion of my autobiography, and releasing some truly groundbreaking work. Most importantly, I’m in a much better place mentally and physically than I’ve been in years, and that’s making everything else even more fulfilling.

ー What first drew you to electronic dance music (EDM)? Who were your early influences in the EDM scene?
ー My journey into electronic dance music (EDM) began at a very young age when my brother, who was a DJ, introduced me to the club scene. I vividly remember being only 5 years old when he took me along with him, and from that moment on, I was hooked. Being immersed in that environment, I felt like a Jedi DJ, absorbing everything about the music and the culture around it. It was a natural fit for me, and I learned the ins and outs of DJing and producing at a remarkable pace. Early on, my influences were pivotal in shaping my musical style and direction. Carl Cox played a significant role; we used to listen to tapes together, and tape mixes like “Friends of Acid” were among my favorites. Even to this day, Carl Cox continues to influence my work with his timeless sound and energy. Roger Sanchez’s “Barry White Love Is The Icon Remix” was another track that left a lasting impression on me, showcasing the power of blending different genres and emotions in music. Artists like Steve Lawler, Loco Dice, and Mihalis Safras also came into my life at just the right moments, each contributing unique elements to my musical palette. Their sounds and techniques have all left indelible marks on my journey in EDM.

ー How did your family influence your musical journey?
ー My family played a significant role in shaping my musical tastes and journey. My father was a passionate vinyl collector, and his collection exposed me to a wide range of music genres, especially from the vibrant sounds of the 80s. This early exposure to diverse musical styles laid a strong foundation for my appreciation of different sounds and rhythms. Moreover, my mother’s background as a singer added another layer to my musical upbringing. Growing up surrounded by her love for music and witnessing her passion for performance instilled in me a deep connection to the emotional and expressive aspects of music. These influences from both my parents enriched my musical journey and contributed to the unique blend of influences you can hear in my work today.

ー What inspired your new track “In Silence” on Codex, and what are your impressions of working with the label?
ー The inspiration behind “In Silence” stemmed from my desire to create something truly impactful for my return to Codex. After the success we had last year, trending worldwide on 1001 for an entire month, I knew we had to come back with something special. Collaborating with the Grammy-winning rapper Flowdan added a dynamic element to the track. However, we chose not to highlight his involvement in the track’s name to let the music speak for itself. I wanted listeners to appreciate the track for its musicality and not just for the hype surrounding Flowdan’s recent Grammy win with Skrillex. Working with Codex has been fantastic; they’ve provided a platform that allows artists to showcase their creativity authentically, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to release on such a reputable label.

ー Is it your debut on labels of IAMT Music Group?
ー While “In Silence” marks my debut on Codex, I’ve also had highly successful releases on labels under the IAMT Music Group umbrella. These releases have garnered support from industry heavyweights like Carl Cox, Solomun, John Summit, and many others. It’s been an exciting journey collaborating with different labels within the group, each offering a unique platform to showcase my music to a global audience.

ー Could you walk us through your creative process? How do you go from an initial idea to a finished track?
ー For “In Silence” and many of my tracks, the creative process often begins with a spark of inspiration, which in this case, came from the powerful and driving vocals provided by Flowdan. His vocals carried so much energy and emotion that it served as a solid foundation to build a banging track around. Once I have a strong starting point like this, I dive into crafting the musical elements. I typically start with creating a rough sketch of the main melody or riff that complements the vocal and captures the mood I want to convey. This could be done on the piano, synthesizers, or even through manipulating samples to fit the track’s vibe. Next comes the arrangement phase, where I structure the track to have dynamic peaks and valleys, ensuring it keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. This involves layering different sounds, adding drums and percussion, and fine-tuning the overall groove and rhythm. Throughout this process, I constantly refine and iterate on the track, making adjustments to the sound design, mixing, and mastering to achieve the desired sonic impact. Collaborating with skilled engineers and vocalists, like Flowdan in this case, also plays a crucial role in shaping the final outcome. Ultimately, it’s a blend of creativity, technical skill, and collaboration that transforms an initial idea into a finished track ready to captivate audiences on the dancefloor or through their speakers.
Preparation for performances:
My DJ sets are all about creating an immersive experience that energizes the crowd and connects them to the music on a deeper level. To prepare, I meticulously curate a selection of tracks that blend my own productions, releases from artists on my label, and tunes from fellow industry supporters. Incorporating fresh promos from labels like Codex ensures my sets remain dynamic and cutting-edge. Beyond track selection, I focus on crafting seamless transitions and building a narrative arc throughout the set. Finding the right balance between driving techno beats and tribal twists is key, creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonates with the audience and keeps them on their feet.
Favorite gig memory:
One of my most cherished gig memories is headlining Pacha Ibiza for their 50th-anniversary celebration during Christmas. The energy in the room was palpable, and as I concluded my set, the crowd erupted into applause—a moment that still gives me goosebumps. What made it even more special was discovering that the holy trinity of house music — Roger Sanchez, DJ Sneak, and Hector Moralez — were in attendance. Despite not knowing they were there initially, I remained focused on delivering an unforgettable performance. Seeing them enjoying my set was surreal, and afterward, I approached them to pay my respects. Their warmth and respect towards me as an artist meant everything — it was a full-circle moment. Headlining in Ibiza, receiving love from the crowd, and earning respect from legends — it’s an experience that encapsulates the magic of electronic music and live performances.

ー What do you think is the most important factor in creating a successful collaboration between artists?
ー In my experience, the most crucial factor in a successful collaboration between artists is clear communication, especially through audio and video rather than text. Being able to convey ideas, share feedback, and understand each other’s creative visions directly can significantly enhance the collaborative process. Patience is also key; understanding that great work takes time and effort from both parties fosters a positive and productive environment. Additionally, setting aside ego and prioritizing mutual respect for each other’s talents and contributions can lead to truly harmonious collaborations that result in exceptional music.

ー If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
ー I have a deep appreciation for artists who bring a disco jazz old-school flavor to their work, so there are a few legends I would love to collaborate with. Quincy Jones stands out for his incredible versatility and mastery across genres, from jazz to pop to film scores. Working with him would be an invaluable learning experience, tapping into his wealth of knowledge and creativity.
Carl Cox is another icon I admire greatly; his energy and passion for electronic music are unmatched. Collaborating with him would be a dream come true, blending our styles to create something truly groundbreaking for the dance music scene. Barbara Tucker, with her powerhouse vocals and impact on house music, is also on my collaboration wishlist. Her soulful voice and infectious energy would undoubtedly elevate any track we work on together. Additionally, I’d love to collaborate with Roger Sanchez, a genius in both DJing and producing music, as well as with Fatboy Slim, Anyma, and Eric Prydz. Each of these artists brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table, making collaborations with them incredibly exciting and promising. Ultimately, I’m open to collaborating with any artist who shares a passion for creativity and brings a unique perspective to the table. It’s about connecting with kindred spirits and creating music that resonates deeply with listeners across generations.

ー How have you seen the electronic music landscape evolve since you started, and where do you see it heading in the next few years?
ー Since I started, the electronic music landscape has undergone remarkable transformations, constantly morphing and evolving. The key, in my opinion, is to stay ahead of the curve, always exploring new sounds and directions. True artists shouldn’t limit themselves to one style but should instead tap into all their dimensions to bring their best to the table. I’ve witnessed shifts from minimal music dominating to more big-room/mainstage festival sounds and a resurgence of techno and hard techno. This evolution is partly fueled by major festivals like Young Island Festival in Moldova, Untold, Electric Castle in Transilvania, Saga Festival in Bucharest, and more. Whether we like it or not, evolution is inevitable, and being in the midst of this musical storm brings me immense joy and inspiration. I’m particularly excited about the resurgence of trap/rap influences in electronic music. I’ve been known to blend techno with hip-hop or trap influences in my work, and seeing these genres merge creatively is incredibly satisfying. Embracing diverse musical influences enriches the electronic music scene and attracts a wider audience, fostering musical education and appreciation among listeners. Looking ahead, I foresee electronic music continuing to push boundaries and blur genre lines. Collaborations across genres and cultures will become even more prevalent, leading to innovative and groundbreaking sounds. As technology advances, we’ll also witness new production techniques and immersive experiences in live performances, further elevating the electronic music experience for both artists and fans.

ー What do you think about the electronic music scene in Romania?
ー The electronic music scene in Romania has experienced massive shifts, reflecting the global evolution of electronic music trends. From the dominance of minimal music to embracing big-room/mainstage festival sounds, techno, and hard techno, Romania’s music scene has adapted to diverse tastes and preferences. Major festivals like Young Island Festival, Untold, Electric Castle, and Saga Festival have played instrumental roles in shaping the scene, attracting international artists and showcasing Romania’s vibrant music culture to the world. The scene’s resilience and openness to experimentation, evident in the fusion of electronic and trap/rap influences like Beach Please festival, highlight Romania as a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for electronic music. Moreover, the growing appreciation for electronic music among younger audiences signals a promising future for the scene. Encouraging musical education and nurturing creativity among emerging artists will further solidify Romania’s position as a global player in the electronic music landscape.

ー Tell us three interesting facts about yourself that your fans have probably never heard of.
ー Karate Expertise: Despite no longer training kids, I am a black belt karate trainer and instructor, and I continue to practice for my own well-being. Karate has been instrumental in helping me achieve balance in my life, both physically and mentally. Literary Enthusiasm: I have a deep passion for reading that extends beyond music-related material. I enjoy exploring literature ranging from fiction to biographies. In fact, I plan to complete my autobiography soon and then venture into writing action-adventure books, particularly in the techno thriller genre. Anonymous Philanthropy: I strongly believe in giving back to the community and engaging in charitable endeavors. However, I prefer to keep my charitable work anonymous because I believe true generosity doesn’t seek recognition. Using my platform to make a positive impact beyond music is a core value I hold dear. These facets not only add depth to my personality but also influence the music I create and the positive contributions I aspire to make in the world.

ー We offer you a short blitz survey:) Share with our readers your favorite:
ー Hobby: Writing Books
Autobiography: Completing your autobiography is a significant project that reflects on your personal journey and experiences in the music industry and life.
Future Adventure Books: Exploring adventure novels showcases your creative versatility and interest in storytelling beyond your own experiences. It allows you to craft imaginative narratives and engage readers in thrilling adventures.
ー Track that always inspires you:
Matthew Dear – Kissing your Eyes (Tale Of Us Remix) – this track’s ethereal and emotive qualities resonate deeply, sparking creativity and mood-setting for your work; Roger Sanchez “Morning Prayer” – the uplifting and soulful vibes of this track likely inspire positivity and motivation during creative sessions; Roel Salemink “Eskes” (Carl Cox Remix) – Carl Cox’s remixes often carry a driving energy and intensity, perfect for finding focus and drive in your creative process; St. Germain “So Flute/Rose Rouge” – these timeless classics blend jazz and electronic elements, offering a rich and dynamic sonic landscape that can inspire varied creative directions.
ー Book: “The Traveller” by John Twelve Hawks – this novel’s exploration of surveillance, privacy, and personal freedom may align with themes that resonate with you, especially in techno-thriller genres; Clive Cussler and Matthew Reilly – these authors’ works in the techno-thriller genre likely provide inspiration in crafting gripping and fast-paced narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
ー Film and TV Series: “Braveheart” – the epic tale of freedom and resilience depicted in “Braveheart” resonates with themes of passion, determination, and overcoming challenges—elements that may influence your creative mindset; “Person of Interest” TV Series – this series delving into surveillance, AI, and moral complexities likely sparks thought-provoking ideas and narratives relevant to modern society and technology.
ー Dish: Sushi and Fruits. Sushi: Appreciating the intricacies and flavors of sushi reflects a refined taste and an appreciation for culinary artistry. Fruits: Your love for fruits not only shows a preference for healthy and refreshing food but also hints at a connection to nature and natural flavors, which can be creatively inspiring in various aspects of life, including music and writing.

ー Maybe you want to share something with our audience that we didn’t ask?
ー One aspect I find crucial in my creative journey is the connection between music and emotions. Music has the incredible power to evoke feelings, memories, and experiences like few other mediums can. When I craft a track or perform a DJ set, my aim is not just to make people dance but also to take them on a journey of emotions—whether it’s euphoria, nostalgia, introspection, or excitement. I believe that this emotional connection is what makes music truly impactful and timeless. It’s the bridge that connects us all across cultures, languages, and backgrounds, uniting us in shared experiences and feelings through the universal language of music.

ー What are your plans for this year? What can your fans expect in the near future?
ー Music Releases: I have upcoming releases planned on prestigious labels such as Carl Cox’s 23rd Century, Codex, Simina Grigoriu’s Kuukoo Records, and my own imprint, Shodan Records. Additionally, I have four tunes set for release on Roger Sanchez’s Undr The Radr and Stealth labels. There are more projects in the works that I can’t disclose publicly just yet, but they are significant and will be revealed in due time.
ー Gigs and Performances: I’ve resumed international bookings and have secured headlining spots at several festivals. My team and I are taking measured steps to ensure a balanced schedule, avoiding burnout while maximizing impactful performances. The gigs include exciting opportunities in Ibiza, marking a return to normalcy and a reaffirmation of my presence in the global electronic music scene.
Overall, fans can expect a steady stream of high-quality releases across various labels and unforgettable performances at key festivals and venues, showcasing my signature energetic DJ sets and latest music creations. Stay tuned for updates and announcements as each project unfolds!

ー Thank you for the interview! We look forward to the new releases from you!
ー You’re welcome! I’m excited about the upcoming releases too, and I appreciate the opportunity to share insights with your audience. Here’s to an incredible year filled with great music and memorable moments! Cheers!

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