IN CONVERSATION WITH BLACKCHILD
Interview by Samo Šajn
Blackchild is a DJ and producer from Italy. Inspired by his father’s record collection, he began making music as a teenager and quickly developed a unique sound that has earned him support across the global Tech House scene. With releases on respected labels and performances at major clubs and festivals, his new ‘Sensual Disguise’ EP on Cécille Records marks an exciting new chapter in his journey.
Growing up on the island of Ischia and listening to your father’s record collection, how did those early influences shape your approach to music?
Ischia is a very small place, there’s not much going on, so I used my imagination a lot to create music. I was inspired by my dad’s collection, which included artists like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and many more. That was my music school.
You started producing at 18 and quickly gained recognition. What do you think made your sound stand out so early on?
I think the fact that I wasn’t doing this for money or fame helped me a lot. I make music for fun because I love it. When I make music, my brain switches off and this external energy brings me into the flow, and that’s when the magic happens.
You’ve performed at iconic venues and festivals like Hï Ibiza and Printworks London. How do live performances influence your productions?
I’ve learned a lot from playing live DJ sets: how to handle a crowd, how to adapt depending on who’s in front of me. You have to be flexible in this industry because the audience is always mixed. When I’m in the studio, I try to make music that fits any of those moments.
You’ve achieved remarkable chart success with numerous Beatport releases. How do these milestones shape your goals and ambitions as an artist?
I’m not a big fan of charts, I don’t see music as a competition. Music is beautiful and very personal. What’s a bomb for me might be just a normal track for someone else, whether it’s another artist or a listener.
Your upcoming ‘Sensual Disguise’ EP is your first release on Cécille Records. How did this collaboration come about?
I’ve always loved Cécille’s sound. It’s one of those labels that, even after many years, is still shaping the sound of our genre without following the trends. I’m proud to be part of it now!
Signing with a legendary label like Cécille must be a big moment. What does it mean for your career and creative vision?
It’s a great feeling and a big achievement for my career, but I also feel like it’s just the beginning of our collaboration. Marc and Nick are amazing people and they bring so much more than just the music.
‘Te Conoci’ was recorded live with your father. Can you share the story behind that track and the experience of working together?
The song was already done, but I felt it needed a more natural touch. At the same time, my brain was in total burnout, so I asked my dad to jam on it and the magic happened with a couple of cuts from his session and it turned into a beautiful, sexy record.
‘Saint Tropez’ was inspired by one of your recent gigs. How do your travels and live shows influence your music?
This year, I performed in Saint Tropez for the first time, and it was instant love. The vibes there are crazy! I got the idea for the song from an old disco record I sampled. That sax solo added the perfect French touch, and you can really feel my “amour” for the music.
The closing track ‘Sensual Disguise’ has a simmering, rolling groove. What was your approach to building tension and energy in that track?
‘Sensual Disguise’ is the meaning behind the EP. These records fully represent the sensual side of my music. That sexy groove that makes you want to move, but also makes you focus and listen closely to the musical details. That was the goal of this EP.
Looking ahead, what can fans expect from you in the coming year in terms of new releases and live performances?
Lots of music! 2026 will be the year of music for me. I’ll slow down a bit with shows and focus more on bringing my music to the next level.
