Get Hype For Hypeworld With Yellow Claw And R3HAB

As live music roars back to the Lion City, we're excited to be meeting more international artists stopping by our sunny shores. And this year, Hype Records is bringing another major music attraction to the city with Hypeworld, an inaugural EDM festival taking place at Gardens by the Bay.

Bringing together DJs from all over the world while also celebrating local talent, the festival is sure to excite both EDM fans and newcomers to the scene alike. Below we catch up with two of the festival's top-billed talents, Yellow Claw and R3HAB, about what they're most looking forward to this weekend.

Yellow Claw

Let’s talk some more about your journey to international fame on the EDM circuit. Was there a certain moment in your career when you realised you made it big time?
Something like that comes very gradually. In our case at least. We worked on it for many years but of course there’s that holy shit moment. I guess for us it was when we played EDC Las Vegas for the very first time. In between a killer line up of all made artists so to say. We were still the odd duck in that line up, so at the same time it felt good that we apparently made it to the big league with just us doing our own thing.

Tell us more about your collab earlier this year with Indonesian trio Weird Genius, another big act set to perform at Hypeworld. What was it like working with them?
That came about very natural. We know these guys for a long time already because we have a couple of the same friends. They are good dudes and good at what they do. And it was fun hanging out and creating the song together.

Do you keep an eye on emerging trends in the EDM scene here in Asia, or Singapore specifically? What excites you about the future of the genre and its rapid growth in the region?
We have our eyes on Asia for the longest time already. We fell in love with the culture a decade ago and we love to go there and play. Each country is very different of course but the similarity is that the industry learned so fast. We witnessed the clubs and the festivals grow to what they are right now. Serious locations and events with the best productions out there. Things like that make it very easy and comfortable for an artist to play and give the best show possible.

Related article: Go To Work With Me: MTV EMA-nominated Artist And Zendyll Music Founder Jon Chua

You’ve played hundreds of music festivals and concerts during your time as a globe-trotting DJ duo. What are you most excited for at Hypeworld specifically?
Singapore is an amazing metropole with a very educated and cool crowd. So from the moment you touch down and are driving to the city the excitement builds up. Looking forward to finally go hard with Singapore again.

What are you excited about seeing, doing or experiencing during your time in Singapore, the Lion City?
We’re gonna spend a couple days extra this time. To really enjoy Singapore right. Maybe grab a river cruise? And yeah, Lion City. Sounds lit.

R3HAB

Your career has spanned over a decade now. Can you talk a bit more about your beginnings as a DJ, and some of the tougher times you’ve faced growing as an artist?
I started DJing at school parties, and I connected with the process deeply. I knew it would be part of my life long term. Pivoting that into a full-time career took a few years and plenty of trial and error, but I'm fueled by challenge and kept chasing the dream. The hunger to succeed in the early days is the best motivation.

Related article: Dance Music Festival ZoukOut To Make A Comeback In December

You’ve worked with dozens of artists on hundreds of remixes over the years, from Calvin Harris to the Chainsmokers. Which was your favourite collab and why?
Each one was special in its own way, so it wouldn't be fair if I highlight only one, but I can tell you that my favourite collab, which hasn't happened yet, would be with Red Hot Chili Peppers.

You’ve also collaborated with several top Asian artists, including K-pop stars MONSTA X and Taiwanese singer-songwriter Jolin Tsai. What was it like working with them?
It's always a pleasure. Jolin and MONSTA X are examples of highly dedicated artists committed to making the song just right. I also really admire the relationship that k-pop artists have with their fans. There is a lot of trust and connection, it's very inspiring.

Related article: Man With Style: Celebrity Stylist Hiro Ye 

Tell us more about your recent projects, like your latest collab with VIZE “One Last Time.”
I've been a big fan of VIZE's work for the past few years and have been looking forward to finding the right moment to collaborate. VIZE presented this demo to me and we immediately jumped in deep. It's a nice blend of soft and rhythmic and encourages listeners to enjoy the moment right now for exactly what it is without worrying about what's next. I also recently had the pleasure of remixing Sia's iconic record "Unstoppable", which has been very well received.

What are you excited about seeing, doing or experiencing during your time in Singapore, the Lion City?
I love Singapore. I will be hitting up some food vendors first thing!