Here at CelebMix, we always try to introduce you to some of the underrated artists that the world has to offer. Today, we are introducing you to French DJ and Producer Hugel!
Hugel has quickly made a name for himself, becoming the number one choice for amping up tracks with his own unique spin, remixing the likes of Charlie Puth, David Guetta, J Balvin, Taio Cruz, and Robin Schulz. He now turns his hand to the track ‘Bella Ciao’, which was originally released in the 1940s by the anonymous artist, El Profesor.
We were lucky enough to be able to catch the busy man himself for a quick interview to help you understand the man behind the music.
Hi Hugel! We hope you’ve been well lately. Can you introduce yourself to our readers please?
I’m a French dj and producer. I grew up in Marseille but I live now in Ibiza for summer and London for the winter.
Can you explain to us how you first became interested in music? Who has inspired you the most in the industry?
Music is part of my life since I was born. I’m not a musician but I grew up with a lot of funk records that my Mum was playing all the time. Then I discovered the hip hop and rnb which is my favourite kind of music. Then when I was 16 years old I went to a club for the first time and I discovered house music. I felt in love immediately and I became a DJ
My biggest inspiration is the industry is Dr Dre. I love the producer but also the business man.
How would you sum up your music?
I’m trying to find the right mix between the rnb and hip hop vibe that I love on a house beat. It’s always dance floor. I produce beats to make the girls dance.
What do you think makes you unique in comparison to other DJs?
I think I’m a good entertainer on stage as I’ve been resident DJ for 10 years. I like to play with the crowd. I also do a lot of editing by myself I don’t like to play the same things everybody else does.
Your remix of Bella Ciao has been incredibly successful. What was it about Bella Ciao that grabbed your attention and made you want to add your own twist to it?
I grew up with this song in Marseilles with the Italian and the Corsican people. When I watched the series on Netflix and I heard it I was like I have to edit this for my DJ set and I did.
You’ve had a crazy year so far, between touring with David Guetta and your residencies in Ibiza, what do you do to relax and refresh yourself?
To be honest I don’t like vacation. it’s boring. I thank god everyday for living the life I want. My life is already a kind of vacation. Partying, travelling, meeting people – that’s my thing.
What is your main goal for your music?
I wanna make people dance. I also want them to form memories with my music. Whether it’s at a party or on holiday.
If you want to catch Hugel on the remainder of his residencies, the dates are below and you can watch the video for ‘Bella Ciao’ remix below!
Saturday 18 August France Sport Beach, Marseille
Sunday 19 August Mallorca Stage
Wednesday 22 August Corsica Vianotte, Porto Vecchio
Saturday 25 August Germany New Horizon, Nurburgring
Friday 31 August Germany AIDA Pallenburg (David Guetta)
Thursday 20 September Ibiza Mambo pre-party
Ibiza Pacha
Monday 24 September Ibiza Ushuaia (David Guetta)
Saturday 6 October Switzerland DeepVibes, Kugl St Gallen