Notorious for his melodic anthems that have earned him a legacy, Globetrotting Swedish House visionary AN21 boasts an amplitude of creative credentials in his production – both solo and collaborative. Being part of building up the formidable Size Records has also been a noteworthy aspect of his musical journey.
We caught up with AN21 when he dropped by Singapore to spin at the Vibe Beach Sports and Music Festival.
Nookmag (N): What kind of music inspired you when you were growing up?
AN21 (A): It was a lot of electronic stuff. I’m doing different from my brother’s stuff. I was more into Trance like Tiesto and all of those guys and obviously, Daft Punk created everything for me. I was into the Headbanger’s Crew too. Other than that, my brother.
N: Being brothers with Swedish House Mafia member Steve Angello, is there a healthy (or otherwise) sibling rivalry between the two of you?
A: I don’t think it’s a rivalry at all. We just want to work together and have as much fun as possible, do what we love. And to grow Size [Records] – we’ve been working on Size for 11 years, we would love to do another 11 years.
N: Do you guys learn from each other?
A: I hope so.
N: What about sharing tips?
A: Both of us have been producing for such a long time now. When it comes to tips, it’s more of general ideas, pushing each other into the right direction.
N: 2014 was a year full of milestones for you. Any particular ones that you like?
A: I think personally, 2014 was about reinventing myself, finding myself musically. I’ve been working on a lot of solo materials for this summer. I had a great time. I took a little break from touring because I’ve been doing it for five to six years, and just relax for two months. I thought it was great for me because I got a different perspective of what I want to create and do musically. I think that was the biggest achievement for me, personally.
N: Out of all the tracks you’ve produced, do you have one that you’re personally very proud of?
A: I don’t think any producer can be really proud of a song because we’re so self-critical. I can work a song forever – for years and years and never going to release it. But sometimes, I need to tell myself that it’s done and that’s the hardest part. I love creating People of the Night album with Max Vangeli because we’re at an early stage in our career and we were travelling to different places. We were able to create such a big album when we were actually never together.
One minute I may love whatever I’m working on and the next, I’d hate it and I’d change it until I think it’s perfect and that takes time.
N: What can fans expect from you in 2015?
A: A lot of solo materials. I’ve been doing a lot of collaborations the past couple of years with Max Vangeli or Sebjak or my brother or other friends. But this year, I’m going to focus on a lot of solo materials. I’m going to keep on touring like I have been. Summer is coming up soon which means I’ll be going back to Europe to do all the festivals in UK, Holland, and obviously Ibiza.
