Terminal V Podcast 092 || MIKA HEGGEMANN
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Mika Heggemann is busy on many different fronts shaping the contemporary electronic scene from his base in Berlin. Not only is he a DJ, producer and sound engineer with a high energy take on techno, but he is a founder of the Polyamor collective and co-creator of the Berlin Dance Music Event.
His fresh sounds blend a healthy understanding of what has gone before with a new school edge and plenty of underground grit, all of which is unified by bold basslines, euphoric builds and hooky vocals. He has taken it all over the world, and already this year he’s dropped bangers like ‘Heartbeat Destiny’ and ‘Club Romance’. Here he tells us about his journey so far, shares some influences, and explains how Berlin shapes his sound while serving up a signature mix to get you through the week.
https://soundcloud.com/terminalvfest/terminal-v-podcast-092-mika-heggemann
You started working behind the scenes for bands as a studio assistant. How did you get from there to DJing and producing in the techno world?
I’ve been playing guitar since I was seven! My dream back then was to become a frontman — guitar player and singer in a band. As a teenager, I discovered techno and realized I could actually produce this music right from my bedroom. I completely fell in love with it! I started experimenting with everything — techno, rap, indie… Eventually, I moved into a recording studio to gain more experience, and day by day, I fell deeper in love with electronic music. And here I am now — fully focused on dance music, but still carrying my love for bands with me.
What is one party, DJ, label or tune that had a big impact on shaping your sound?
That’s really hard to say! When I first started with this sound, there weren’t many people playing it — that’s actually one of the reasons we created polyamor. Now, there’s a whole wave of inspiring artists and crews around: DJs like Hurts, Linds, JOKESONYOU, L.zwo, 2HOT2PLAY, and labels like Hot Meal Records, 44, Teletech… they all push things forward and keep inspiring me.
Does your sound have a distinct Berlin quality or does your sound and its influences and inspiration come from elsewhere?
My sound definitely carries Berlin vibes, but it’s also shaped by so many other places and scenes. It’s a mix of Berlin grit with international influences like Tech House, Circoloco, and Elrow.
How do you feel about phones in clubs, should they be banned on the dance floor?
Yes and no! Filming every moment definitely kills the vibe.
I think it’s more about educating people to have a better relationship with their phones in the club.
Tell us about your mix, the aim you had with it, and what you wanted it to say.
This mix is packed with unreleased tracks I’m really excited to share! I focused on creating a one-hour journey of pure club music, with a few special highlights sprinkled in. I also tried some new ideas, so expect a few surprises.
What gear did you use, is that important to you in any way whether in the booth or studio?
I feel most at home performing on a V10, but honestly, I can work with any mixer. It’s the connection to the crowd that really counts.
What are you working on for the rest of the year?
kristan j caryl