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DJ Mag Top100 DJs
89
Jay Hardway
| NEW ENTRY

From: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
DJ style: “Progressive, big room, house.”
Best known for: “‘Electric Elephants’.”
What’s the next new big track? “’Steam Train' by Chocolate Puma & Hi-Lo.”
Breakthrough DJ/producer of 2016: d.o.d.

One of the latest Dutch DJs to propel his way into the Top 100 (thanks, in part, to the backing of EDM hit factory Spinnin’ Records), Jay Hardway has had one hell of a year. 

After collaborating with Martin Garrix in 2013 with chart-topper 'Wizard' (the follow-up to the Dutchman’s 'Animals’), 2016 has seen Hardway produce more future anthems in the form of 'Stardust', 'El Mariachi' and 'Dinosaur'. He names his new track 'Somnia' as a personal highlight of the last 12 months, plus spinning at this year's Tomorrowland and Budapest's Sziget Festival.

And there's no sign of him slowing down. “My plan for the next year is to produce a lot of new music, not sticking to one style but keep experimenting and try to be original,” he tells DJ Mag. We can’t wait to see what he comes up with next! 

What have been the new frontiers for you this year?
“The Chainsmokers. They have their own style, actually make their own music and they are really cool dudes.”

Is electronic music taken seriously enough as an art-form?
“I think it is by everyone who is involved with it. And that's what matters. If anyone from the outside doesn't take it seriously, that's their loss.”

If you had to switch your style to another genre, what would it be?
“I would probably start making music for movies.”

As a fan, what is the top price you would pay to see yourself DJ?
“I honestly have no idea… Maybe 50 euros?”

What can be done to prevent drug-related deaths at dance music events?
“There should be more info on how to do drugs. How to use it responsibly. Also, special teams who check that the drugs are safe (which is already done at some Dutch festivals) could help.”

How can we increase diversity in dance music?
“I think we're doing great already in terms of diversity. The music is getting more and more diverse and so are the people attending the shows. Being open-minded and focusing on the music is what makes that happen.”

WORDS: CHARLOTTE LUCY CIJFFERS