66 JULIAN JORDAN
From: The Netherlands
Rising star DJ/producer of 2021: “Gordo.”
Rising up the poll once again, Julian Jordan’s position on this year’s list once again cements how popular his sound has become. Famously, before he had left school, the Dutch producer had signed a contract with Spinnin’ Records and then a slew of singles released in 2018 shot him into the spotlight. The 26-year-old has since refined his craft, excelling at creating anthemic bangers worthy of his consistent festival headliner slots.
Julian has spent this year “working very hard to take my DJ sets to the next level”. With ambitions to give the crowd “a next-level high-energy experience”, it’s no surprise that his releases this year — including ’The Box’ with Will K and ‘Let Me Be The One’ with Guy Arthur — possess relentless, ferocious energy. Jordan is slowly cementing his signature sound across the globe, and the future is his for the taking.
How was your first gig back after lockdown?
“During lockdown, it felt like my ‘battery’ was empty and could only be refilled with crowd energy. When I stepped on stage for my first gig after lockdown I really felt like I was recharging.”
How have the last 18 months changed how you view your work/life balance?
“I started to see my friends and family a bit more. It’s easy to lose yourself in your workflow, but it’s good to stand still sometimes and look at what you’ve already achieved.”
What further steps should the industry take to combat climate change?
“Reduce plastic waste. Festivals/clubs should always use paper cups and look for ways to make partying greener. Think about the type of transportation to the club or use local food and drinks as much as possible.”
What’s the best bit of tech you’ve added to your studio or DJ setup this year?
“I recently bought a new [Akai] MPC drum computer for my studio. I used to be a drummer, so experience with rhythm and samples is important in my productions.”
What’s the best album you’ve heard this year?
“Drake ‘Certified Lover Boy.”