Amsterdam-based DANN is spearheading the new generation of club promoter and artist..

DANN creates parties in unique spaces with legendary energy and innovation In an electronic music landscape constantly seeking the next wave, producer and DJ DANN is making waves not just with his sound, but with how he brings it to the people. Following the release of his vibrant new single, “Make Us Wanna Dance,” a track that deftly navigates the intersection of classic House and the raw, swinging energy of UK Garage, we caught up with the Amsterdam-based artist for an in-depth conversation. Beyond the studio, DANN has cultivated a significant reputation for his unique event series in Amsterdam, hosting memorable parties in unexpected locations, including a local barber shop. In this conversation, he talks candidly about the demanding logistics and creative challenges of curating events in non-traditional venues.. Your new single, “Make Us Wanna Dance,” is described as exploring the cross-section of House and UKG. What drew you to blending these two genres, and what specific elements from each were essential for this track? It came pretty naturally. I’ve always loved house for its warmth and steady flow while UKG brings that swing and energy that really moves a dancefloor. With Make Us Wanna Dance I wanted a groove that feels locked-in and rolling but still has that two-step (in this case some jersey) bounce. It’s about finding a balance where it feels familiar yet still fresh and physical. The track features the “familiar pump of the M1 organ across a two-step drum pattern.” Can you talk about the significance of the M1 organ sound in your music, and how you approach sample-based house production? The M1 organ is timeless. It carries a lot of history and emotion and it just sits right in a club system. I like using it as a supportive element rather than the main focus. When I work with samples I’m more interested in feel than perfection. If something grooves well and adds character I’ll keep it slightly raw instead of polishing it too much. How has your sound evolved or shifted in focus from those previous releases to this new one? Earlier releases were more experimental. I was trying out different directions and seeing what felt right. Lately my sound has become more focused and club-oriented. I’m more confident leaving space and letting the groove do the work rather than overloading a track with ideas. How long have you been running your event series in Amsterdam? Just over a year now. It started in a very organic way and quickly grew into a recurring series. From the start the focus was on atmosphere and community rather than only scale and that’s still the main priority. There’s some unique venues you’ve hosted your parties at, including a barber shop. Talk to us about the logistics of running events in a unique space like this. Running events in spaces like that is more demanding than using a regular club. You have to build everything from the ground up including sound setup crowd flow and safety. At the same time those limitations push you to think creatively. The result is usually a more intimate experience where people feel really connected to the space and the music. View this post on Instagram How do you find it dealing with venues and venue managers who aren’t used to this sort of event? Do you need to convince them a lot? Sometimes yes. Most venue owners are just unfamiliar with the concept rather than against it. I try to be clear and transparent about what we’re doing and how we’ll take care of the space. Once they see it’s organised and respectful they usually become quite supportive. Live events companies like yours as well as Lab54 and coffee shop raves are changing the idea of the rave location. Do you feel that running events in unique spaces is a big part of the future of raves in Amsterdam and beyond? I think so. Traditional clubs will always be important but people are looking for new experiences. Unique spaces change how people connect with music and with each other. Especially in cities like Amsterdam these kinds of events help keep the culture evolving. View this post on Instagram If I was a brand new promoter looking to put on events in unique unexpected spaces what would be your advice on how to approach this? What’s the first step? Start small and be realistic. Find a space that genuinely fits your idea and build a relationship with the owner first. Be clear about your concept and take logistics seriously. Good sound clear communication and safety matter just as much as the line-up. Finally… what’s next? I’m finishing my first proper project at the moment which feels like an important step creatively. Alongside that I want to keep developing the event series and exploring new spaces both in and outside Amsterdam. The focus is on growing things naturally and keeping it sustainable. Connect with DANN: Instagram | Spotify 5 presents to buy your electronic music loving relative this Christmas The post Amsterdam-based DANN is spearheading the new generation of club promoter and art