“There’s something special about being close to the crowd” Samm interview

Samm is an electronic music artist and DJ, recognized for his dynamic sets that fuse techno with melodic house influences.

In this interview, we sit down with the driving force behind Magnifik Records, a label gaining momentum for its commitment to quality and authentic artistry. Samm shares insights into the inspiration behind the label, how it balances nurturing new talent while staying true to its artistic vision, and the importance of building a connected community.

We also explore the influence of industry giants like Solomun and CamelPhat, the art of adapting to different live settings, and how he maintains a balance between the demands of touring and personal life—all while staying grounded in the ever-evolving electronic music scene.

Your label, Magnifik Records, is gaining a lot of attention. What inspired you to start the label, and how do you ensure it stays true to your artistic vision while supporting other up-and-coming artists?

Our vision for Magnifik Records has always been rooted in authenticity and quality. We were inspired to create a platform that gives each release the attention it truly deserves, without rushing the creative process. By investing equal time and energy into every project, we ensure that each track aligns with our artistic values while supporting the growth of up-and-coming artists. Building a strong community is also central to our approach. We stay connected with our fans, making sure they feel heard and involved in our journey. It’s about creating a genuine bond with both our audience and artists, where everyone feels valued and part of something meaningful.

You’ve received praise from industry giants like Solomun and CamelPhat. How does their support influence your creative direction, if at all?

Having support from industry giants like Solomun and CamelPhat is an incredible affirmation of all the hard work I’ve put in. It feels great to know that I’m on the right path and that the music I’m passionate about is resonating with such influential names. My goal is to create music that blends effortlessly into different clubs, maintaining a variety of sounds while staying true to my signature style. Seeing my tracks played by so many different artists is a clear sign that I’m doing things right, and it motivates me to keep pushing forward with future projects.

You’ve performed at numerous festivals and clubs across Europe. How do you adapt your sets to different environments and audiences, and do you have a favorite setting to play in?

Adapting to different environments is all about understanding the crowd’s vibe. In smaller clubs, I love creating a more intimate atmosphere and building a personal connection with the audience. At festivals, the energy is entirely different—you need to hit the crowd with something massive right from the start. I love both settings, but smaller clubs and shows are my favorite. There’s something special about being close to the crowd, with everyone gathered around the DJ booth, allowing for a direct connection with the fans.

As someone who started making music at a young age, what advice would you give to young producers just starting out in the electronic music scene?

The most important thing is to stay patient and trust your process. Focus on developing your own sound and don’t be afraid to experiment. Also, surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and support you. The electronic music scene can be tough, but persistence and authenticity will always stand out. And remember, it’s okay to fail—every setback is a learning experience.

With a growing fanbase and reputation, what has been the most surprising or rewarding aspect of your career so far?

The most rewarding part is seeing how deeply people connect with my music. Hitting milestones like 5 million streams with Does It Matter and getting messages from fans about how a track impacted them—those moments remind me why I started in the first place. The recognition from major artists I’ve admired for years has also been surreal. It’s amazing to feel like I’m contributing something valuable to the scene.

The Belgian electronic music scene has a rich history. How do you see your work fitting into this legacy, and what do you think sets Belgium apart as a hub for electronic music?

What sets Belgium apart is its openness to different sounds and subgenres. It’s a melting pot of influences, and that’s something I’ve tried to reflect in my own work by blending diverse elements.

In a rapidly changing music industry, how do you stay grounded and ensure that your music evolves without losing its authenticity?

Staying grounded comes from always remembering why I started: my love for music. I’m constantly evolving, whether it’s through experimenting with new sounds or collaborating with different artists, but I make sure that every track feels true to who I am. Being around people who challenge me creatively but also keep me humble helps maintain that balance. Trends will come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style.

You’ve collaborated with artists like Ajna on tracks and projects. What do you think makes for a successful collaboration, and how do you balance differing creative perspectives?

A successful collaboration is built on mutual respect and a shared vision. It’s important to let each artist bring their unique style to the table while finding common ground that enhances the track. Communication is key. I always try to stay open to new ideas, even if they challenge my initial direction. The beauty of collaboration is that it pushes you to think differently and create something you might not have arrived at on your own.

Outside of music, what activities or hobbies do you enjoy that help you unwind and recharge creatively? Do these experiences ever inspire your music indirectly?

Right now, I have a pretty busy tour schedule, so a lot of my free time is spent traveling. On days or moments when I’m not on tour, I try to make music, relax, and spend quality time with my family. I regularly go to the gym to clear my head and stay in shape.

Being a DJ and producer often involves extensive travel. How do you balance the demands of touring with your personal life, and what do you do to stay grounded while on the road?

Touring can be intense, but I make sure to prioritize downtime when I can. It’s important to take care of both your physical and mental health, so I try to stay active, eat well, and get enough rest, even while traveling. Balance is key, and I’ve learned how to create that over time.

Follow Samm at: https://www.instagram.com/samm___music