RB Exclusive Interview: Darude on His Legacy of Energy, Evolution, & a Lifetime of Memories

For over two decades, Darude has been at the pulse of global dance music, igniting crowds with his infectious energy and timeless tracks. Darude’s impact on the electronic music scene is undeniable. As he gears up to perform at Tempe’s Sunbar on April 12th, we had the incredible opportunity to talk with him and get his perspective on his career, legacy, and the journey that’s led him to be the artist he is today.

A Career Defined by Connection and Gratitude

When asked about the most rewarding part of his career, Darude reflects on the connections he’s made along the way. “I don’t know if I can pinpoint one exact moment, really,” he says, “I’m just grateful every time I receive a DM from someone saying one of my tracks made them feel a certain way, or every time I get to jump behind the decks and take a dancefloor of ravers along for the ride.” 25 years on, he still finds it surreal that he gets to do what he loves every day.

For Darude, it’s never been about fame or accolades, it’s about the music and the people. “I just want people to remember the memories they’ve made at my shows and the people they met. My music has been the soundtrack to different moments in people’s lives, both the highs and the lows.“

A Legacy Beyond “Sandstorm“

While “Sandstorm” remains his signature track, Darude is equally proud of his entire body of work. “Of course, I’m incredibly proud of ‘Sandstorm,’” he says, “but I have five studio albums, and I don’t plan on retiring from the studio anytime soon.” As dance music continues to evolve, Darude remains committed to pushing boundaries and staying true to his roots, creating music that resonates on a deeper level.

The Thrill of Live Performances

There’s an undeniable thrill when you witness a Darude set. With a career spanning decades, Darude describes the energy of his live shows as something that’s always fresh, even after all these years. “It’s like reuniting with old friends all the time,” he says. “I can play in certain cities across the world and know that this specific group of people will be there, and that sense of community is something I’ll never take for granted.“

His latest studio album, Together, was entirely inspired by the fans and friends he’s made along the way, a testament to the lasting bonds he’s built with his global audience. For Darude, the dancefloor isn’t just about music, it’s a space for escapism, a chance for people to forget their daily troubles and immerse themselves in the moment.

Adapting to Change, Staying True to the Beat

Over the years, Darude has witnessed the music landscape shift dramatically, especially with the rise of social media and streaming platforms. “The introduction of social media and the world’s shift online has completely changed the music scene,” he explains. “It’s easier than ever to connect with fans across the globe, but it’s also more challenging to get your music heard above the noise.“

Despite these changes, Darude has managed to stay true to what he’s always done, creating music that moves people. “I don’t overthink it,” he says, “I just make the kind of music I want to hear.” His approach has allowed him to adapt to new trends while remaining authentically Darude.

A New Era: Live Producer Sets and Fresh Directions

While Darude is known for his electrifying DJ sets, his latest project marks a return to his roots: the Storm 25 anniversary tour. “The shows are not my usual DJ sets,” he shares. “They’re live producer sets with new versions of 25 of my back catalog tracks, stemmed out in Ableton Live, and with live sampling and crowd involvement.” It’s a new direction that reflects both his growth as an artist and his desire to keep pushing the envelope.

For fans at Sunbar on April 12th, this is an opportunity to witness something truly special, an intimate, dynamic live performance that showcases Darude’s evolution as both a producer and performer.

Lessons Learned and the Future of Dance Music

Having been in the game for so long, Darude has learned a lot about the business of music. His advice for up-and-coming DJs is simple but crucial: “It’s important to have a good understanding of how the business side of things operates. There are some incredible teams out there, but you need to know the ins and outs so you can build a strong team around you.”

And, of course, he has a bit of practical advice for aspiring artists: “Always back up your USB!” It’s a lesson learned the hard way, but one that resonates with anyone who’s worked in the digital age.

Getting to Know Darude Before the Big Show

Having the chance to interview Darude was an exciting experience, offering a glimpse into the mind of an artist who’s been a true pioneer in the dance music scene. His passion for music, his fans, and his craft is evident in everything he does. It’s not every day that you get to hear about the life and legacy of someone who has shaped the soundtrack to so many lives around the world, and to do so just before his highly anticipated set at Sunbar only adds to the excitement. We can’t wait to see Darude bring that signature energy to the stage!

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Night

Darude’s journey is one of growth, gratitude, and connection. As he prepares to bring his high-energy performance to Sunbar on April 12th, there’s no doubt that fans are in for an unforgettable night. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic live, get your tickets now, and get ready to dance the night away with one of the most iconic figures in electronic music!

Connect with Darude: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud