The Swiss techno don takes on our quick-fire questionnaire, revealing his love of Stevie Wonder and his former life as a sausage packaging expert.
Why music?
Because it’s the form of art which has taken up most of my time since I was a young kid. I grew up with it. I believe it’s a form of communication and it transports an emotional richness unlike anything else I’ve come to experience.
If you weren’t making music what would you be doing?
I would most likely still be working in human resources at a Swiss bank, which was my job before I decided to fully concentrate on music.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
My mum’s advice to be tolerant and respectful, but not to worry too much about what other people think about you. I’m trying to follow that as much as possible.
What inspires you?
My family, music, industrial design, people and nature.
What’s the next big thing?
Post-post-dubstep-UK-bass-hip-Berghain-techno – if that makes sense?!
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?
Working in a big butchery, packaging up sausages for two weeks during a school holiday.
How do you know when a track’s finished?
I never really think anything’s finished, but you have to draw a line because sometimes it can make things worse if you work on tracks for too long.
When did you realise you could give up your day job?
Actually I made that decision based upon the confirmation of an album deal with Compost Records (as Procreation). Funny thing is that I never finished that album.
Which song do you wish you wrote?
All time: Stevie Wonder – ‘Superwoman’.
Current: Todd Terje – ‘Inspector Norse’.
What’s the easiest way to make it in the music industry?
There is no easy way in music industry if you want to be true to your music and perform it with skill.
What’s the worst track you’ve ever released?
I’m trying to keep that one as secret as possible.
Recommend us a book.
The last book I read was Kafka’s The Metamorphosis. It’s been a while though!
What or who is underrated?
What or who is overrated?
Lana Del Rey. And – even though I like some of his music – maybe the hype about Nicolas Jaar is slightly exaggerated.
What are you addicted to?
100% cocoa chocolate and Pitchfork, FACT Mag and Resident Advisor. I can’t help it.
What is your greatest regret?
Not to have continued my piano education when I was 14.
Collaboration: rich creative experience or pain in the ass?
Depends on the collaborators.
What one piece of software/kit could you not do without?
The Moog Voyager.
Art or money?
If you love your art and perform it with passion I believe it will pay off in the long run.
Must-read blogs?
Awesome Tapes from Africa, Feel My Bicep and Austin Bush’s photo blog.
What’s the worst thing about making music?
Writer’s block.
Deetron plays at Valhalla Festival, Amsterdam, on December 22nd. Find Deetron on SoundCloud, Facebook and Twitter.