Christian Nielsen is a man that’s been on our radar for some time now. The Copenhagen producer and dj has crafted a stellar reputation with cuts on renowned global imprints like Kompakt, Ellum, and Exploited. Despite everything, he has continued to step things up in 2020. Fresh from a vibrant remix of Canadian duo HOKI, Nielsen returns to When We Dip to deliver a fresh new mix in our Select Cuts series, while also taking the time to run us through his 2020 so far. It’s all below!
WWD: Thanks for joining us Christian! It’s been a unique year. What has 2020 looked like for you so far?
It has been one hell of a ride to be honest. Its been a very special time filled with fear, uncertainty, and worry. On the other hand, I’ve had time to spend with my girlfriend and our two kids, and that has been amazing. This time has been life changing for me and shown me what’s important in life and how to appreciate it. It’s hard to talk about because it’s not over yet, but I’ve learned to be more positive and patient with life. There are so many things you can’t control in life and the best you can do is find happiness in every little small thing in your every day life.
WWD: How are the community in Copenhagen holding up?
It is hard to at the moment. Clubs are still closed, and I fear the worst and hope for the best. I think the situation is the same everywhere, I guess.
WWD: Has the situation affected your creative/studio approach?
No not really. That part of my life is still the same. If anything I appreciate the fact that I have a day job that gives me room and space to make music when I want to and not forced to.
WWD: Have you taken the time to learn any new skills or added any changes that will stay in your routine moving forward?
No not really. To be honest the only thing that has come to me during the pandemic is mentally. I almost feel like things have become more clear and visible. It’s hard to describe but I do hope you will be able to hear it in my music in the future.
WWD: How do you see the electronic music scene adjusting in reaction to this pandemic?
Hmmm hard to say. The only difference is seeing a lot more live streams. LIKE A LOT! For now it’s hard to say anything until the clubs open again.
WWD: You have a new remix of HOKI ‘Crash’ out now. Can you walk us through your creative process on this one?
So when I first heard the original I totally fell in love with the vocals, and I pretty much from the beginning knew what kind of vibe I wanted. But finding the perfect vibe was really difficult. I wanted a slightly darker vibe and I struggled for quite a while. But as soon as I got the bassline in place the rest came pretty quickly. From there it was all about letting the vocals lead the way.
WWD: Fresh also from a debut on Maceo Plex’s Ellum! How did this come to fruition?
So, beginning of 2020 I released “Gold” on Kompakt which did pretty well. A few weeks after that Maceo hit me up on IG and asked for some tracks for the label. I sent them a batch of tracks I felt was in the Ellum spirit and the rest is history.
WWD: You’ve crafted a reputation for delivering quality cuts from across the house and techno spectrum. What do you see as the essence of Christian Nielsen?
No limits. Everything goes genre wise. But the most important part is does my music make me dance.
WWD: What else can we expect from you over the next few months?
Music, music and a whole lot more music! Let’s dance!