Oliver Heldens on Ibiza: "It’s hard to find anything else like it in the world"
At only 23, Oliver Heldens’ career has been a whirlwind one. His list of achievements is long, having already held a residency on BBC’s Radio 1, remixed the likes of Calvin Harris, Jamiroquai, Martin Garrix and Katy Perry and released on every major dance music label and played every major dance music festival in the world. Not bad, eh? This summer he’s heading back to Ibiza for shows alongside David Guetta, Steve Angello, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and more. We caught up with him to find out more about his Ibiza experiences...
What were your first experiences of Ibiza like?
“The first time I came to the island was in the summer of 2014. I played at venues like Ushuaïa, Pacha and Amnesia and I had a great experience at those places! I like that the crowds are such a mix of different nationalities. They also have such great energy and appreciation for the music. It’s hard to find anything else like it in the world!”
How has the island changed since you first started visiting?
“I wouldn’t say it has changed much in those four years, besides that Space got renovated into Hï Ibiza. I guess I have changed though and I love the island even more now than before.”
What are you most looking forward to this season?
“Playing and staying on the island. Enjoying the great food, the beautiful views and of course the nightlife.
How do you stay creative on the road when touring in the summer?
“I always create on the road, I’m very used to working from my laptop. Most of my releases from the past three years I’ve made on the road, actually. I think the travelling helps to get more creative, since you get all these new impulses. Also I’ve invited a few songwriter friends of mine to come to the island, so we can write new music.”
Where’s your favourite non-clubbing place to visit on the island?
“I can’t pick one favourite place, there are so many! I love cruising around the island by boat to go to Formentera. And there are many good restaurants where I try all different dishes. One of my favourite views is the sunset view at Es Vedra.”
What’s your ultimate Ibiza sunset track?
“Modjo ‘Lady’. What a classic.”
You’re playing Cream at Hi this summer — who are you most looking forward to playing alongside?
“I’m playing at Hi, Ushuaia and Pacha this summer with many amazing DJs. I’m especially looking forward to playing alongside Steve Angello and Martin Solveig, our sets work very well together and I have always admired what those guys have done for dance music and our scene in general.”
*Oliver Heldens plays Cream at Hi Ibiza on August 26th and September 2nd. He also plays BIG at Ushuaïa on Monday 20th August and Tuesdays On Mars at Pacha on Tuesday 25th September.
