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DJ Mag Top100 DJs
41
Claptone
12
What started out as some intense planning for The Masquerade, Claptone's fantastical event parties that were booked in at Pacha, Ibiza, this year swiftly evolved into time spent working on his third album. “It's got some amazing songs on there, I can’t unveil too much at this stage, but I really can’t wait to share them with you,” the golden one tells us. 
 
In the meantime, Claptone has been performing regular live streams and sets from his home in front of his exciting vinyl collection. “You can’t compare this to the joy of playing in front of a bigger crowd and the emotive impact that it has on you,” he tells DJ Mag.
 
Did he think of adding a face covering to his successful merchandise range? “Yes, but I decided against that in the end. I want to believe in a time after this pandemic where it’s OK and safe again to go to parties, dance with each other and hug each other.” Yep, we're all keeping fingers and toes crossed for that.  
 

What three things have most helped you through Coronavirus Lockdown? 
 
“Music, my fans, love.”
 
 
What lessons should the industry learn from this crisis? 
 
“United we stand, divided we fall.”
 
 
What steps need to be taken to address the racism in the dance music scene?
 
“Same as in everyday life: speak up, get involved, zero tolerance for racist behaviour or hate speech of any kind.”
 
 
What industry changes are you personally pushing for to make the dance music scene more inclusive? 
 
“I launched my event‚ The Masquerade, based on the idea to create a positive environment free of any acts of discrimination — open to everyone who wants to join. We encourage them to wear masks so they can play with their identity, develop a new perspective on themselves and the world by becoming someone or something else.”
 
 
What’s the greatest dance music track of all time? 
 
“New Order 'Blue Monday'.”