HEVI LEVI: "I imagine myself as a listener"

Mar 11

HEVI LEVI is a DJ and electronic music producer from Tel Aviv, Israel, known for his twenty-year career. He has performed in underground clubs and at major international music festivals such as Tomorrowland, Laundry Day, Sensation, Pacha, and many others. His musical style is electronic house. He has also produced numerous hits for local Israeli artists and had the honor of being the resident DJ for Manchester United Football Club. He was also selected among the top 10 DJs by RedBull Music Academy.

You've recently released "50 Shades" in collaboration with Debbie James on TN1!. How did this partnership come about, and what inspired you during the creation of this track?

I used to hear her in a BDSM mega club, so I guess the idea came from there. Debbie’s a good friend and a great singer, and basically, she is one of my favorite vocalists, so it was natural for me to have her on the track.

As the founder and owner of Joy Group—which encompasses a record label, a DJ and production school, and recording studios—how do you balance your roles as a DJ, producer, and entrepreneur?

I’m not a part of Joy anymore.

Throughout your career, you've performed at renowned festivals like ADE, Sensation, and Love Parade, as well as iconic clubs such as Space and Ministry of Sound. Which experiences have been the most memorable, and how have they influenced your artistic evolution?

I’m lucky to get the opportunities to play for a loving audience. Ivan said that playing in Moscow was one for the books because the crowd knew the lyrics to my songs and actually sang along with the music.

Your production style is known for its highly energetic bass lines and melodic layers. Can you describe your creative process and the key elements you consider essential to maintaining your unique sound?

I start each track from an idea, then it creates the structure of the track. Then comes the rhythm, and then the melodies. Last but not least, I spend time with my track and imagine myself as a listener or a raver, experiencing the track from their perspective. This is a key element in my production process.

You've recently embarked on a project that combines music and visual art, culminating in the release of "Back Room". Could you share more about how the idea to merge these two art forms originated and what impact you hope it has on your audience?

I always wanted another artistic perspective on my music, so I asked Nora Solomon, the painter, to create a painting based on how my music made her feel. We made a video clip of this process, allowing my audience to experience my music from a different angle.