67 MATTN
From: Belgium
Rising star DJ/producer of 2021: “Joel Corry.”
Family has been a focus for Belgian bigroom trendsetter, MATTN, after lockdown caused her relentless touring schedule to pause. She became a mother in 2021, welcoming her baby boy to the world this summer.
Despite the huge life change, her musical ambition has remained strong. Following a string of hits on Smash The House, her latest production for the label, ‘Funky Town’, came out this August — just in time for one of her first mainstage festival sets since restrictions were lifted, at Ostende Beach Festival. “We are truly lucky and blessed to be able to do what we love,” she tells DJ Mag. “I think none of us will take our shows for granted anymore.”
After spending so long without the high-octane arena energy she adores, fans can expect to hear more of her trademark EDM sound. They should also be ready to discover something different from the artist, newly inspired by the deeper chill house. Her creativity has seen her develop her voice, alongside her mixing and production talents. “I really want to keep on combining singing and DJing more and more in the future,” she says.
How was your first gig back after lockdown?
“It felt so euphoric being back on stage. Everyone clearly missed partying, singing and dancing. I couldn’t hear my own music anymore because the crowd was singing along like crazy!”
How have the last 18 months changed how you view your work/life balance?
“It definitely made me appreciate family moments more, and I realise that it is important to create a good balance between work and family. For me, it was the perfect time to start a little family, so I became a mother of a beautiful baby boy three months ago.”
What further steps should the industry take to combat climate change?
“I can call myself a climate-neutral DJ. I collaborated with GoForest to compensate for my airmiles by planting trees.”
What’s the best bit of tech you’ve added to your studio or DJ setup this year?
“Loving the vocal and stem isolation technology of VirtualDJ.”
What’s the best album you’ve heard this year?
“‘Café del Mar Chillwave 3’.”