IN CONVERSATION WITH HELANG
Interview by Samo Šajn
Chinese-American artist HELANG, who has released music on labels like HE.SHE.THEY., is out with her new single "Hits Different" on HILOMATIK. Her music blends captivating sounds with a unique personal style. As the founder of Dauntless Records, she also supports female artists in Brooklyn.
Your single "Hits Different" is being released during AAPI Heritage Month. How does your Chinese-American identity inform your artistic expression and the music you create?
My identity as a Chinese-American is deeply woven into the fabric of who I am, and consequently, into my artistic expression. It's a unique blend of two worlds that shapes my perspective and approach. The strong work ethic and dedication I bring to my craft are undoubtedly influenced by my Chinese heritage, while my emotional intelligence and openness to self-expression resonate with my American upbringing. Ultimately, I create from the heart, pouring my complete self into the music I love and want to share.
The press release mentions you're "dedicated to amplifying your authentic self and cultural heritage." Could you share specific elements of your Chinese heritage that have influenced your artistic vision?
The emphasis on relentless hard work and perseverance instilled in me through my Chinese heritage has significantly shaped my artistic vision. It's taught me the importance of pursuing my goals with unwavering dedication. This drive is balanced by the humility I've also learned, reminding me to stay grounded while also knowing my worth and not allowing others to take advantage.
As both an artist and label owner with Dauntless Records, you've created female-only showcases in Brooklyn. What inspired this initiative, and how has it evolved since you started?
The underrepresentation of female artists, particularly in electronic music, is a reality I felt compelled to address. These female-only showcases in Brooklyn were born from a desire to create a space where talented women could shine. While the focus is on female artists, the underlying goal is to foster a more inclusive environment for everyone, encouraging more female and LGBTQ+ attendees to feel safe, empowered, and free to express themselves on the dance floor. It's about celebrating talent and building a community.
Your recent collaborations with prestigious labels like HILOMATIK and HE.SHE.THEY. represent significant milestones. How do you approach working with different labels while maintaining your distinctive sound?
Authenticity is the cornerstone of my artistry. While collaborating with different labels offers exciting opportunities and reaches new audiences, the core of my sound – that sultry passion and the spirit of forging my own path – remains unwavering. These values guide me in every aspect of my creative journey, ensuring that my distinctive voice shines through, regardless of the platform.
Fashion and music often intersect, especially in the techno scene. How would you describe your personal style, and how does it connect to your musical identity?
I would describe my personal style as witty, cutesy, and with a hint of sultriness. My signature on stage – often a mini skirt, knee-high boots, and a black top – embodies this playful duality. It creates a sense of intrigue, suggesting a captivating blend of sweetness and strength, much like the energy I aim to convey through my music.
You've shared stages with titans like Amelie Lens and Nicole Moudaber. What have these experiences taught you about carving your own path as a woman in electronic music?
Sharing the stage with artists like Amelie Lens and Nicole Moudaber has been incredibly inspiring. Beyond their immense talent and work ethic, they are also wonderful human beings who champion diversity and actively support female talent. Their example reinforces the importance of hard work, authenticity, and lifting others up as you navigate your own path in this industry.
Your quote mentions living "through a lens of discovery, adventure, and seduction" and being inspired by "the art of mystery." Could you elaborate on how these elements manifest in your creative process?
My upbringing, which involved moving frequently and experiencing different cultures, instilled in me a deep love for discovery and adventure. This translates into my creative process as a constant exploration of new sounds and ideas. The "art of mystery" stems from the beauty I find in the unknown and the unique stories each individual holds. This sense of intrigue fuels my desire to connect with people on a deeper level through my music.
From a design perspective, how do you approach the visual elements of your work – from album artwork to your stage presence?
The visual elements of my work are intentionally designed to reflect boldness, bravery, and conviction. The eagle wings in Dauntless Records' logo, and the meaning of my artist name ("an eagle" in Malaysian), symbolize this strength and unwavering spirit. My stage presence and artwork aim to visually communicate this same sense of power and self-assuredness.
"Hits Different" suggests something unique or distinctive. What aspects of this track represent your evolution as an artist?
"Hits Different" is a track crafted specifically for the dance floor, aiming to be both emotive and empowering. It represents a more "badass" evolution in my sound compared to some of my previous releases. It's a personal reminder, and hopefully for listeners too, that growth is a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey filled with both obstacles and triumphs that deserve recognition.
Launching Dauntless Records has undoubtedly been a significant undertaking. How has this experience changed your perspective on the music industry and your place within it?
Launching Dauntless Records, while challenging, has been incredibly insightful. It has underscored the importance of building a brand on my own terms and fostering a community where individuals feel safe and empowered to be themselves. This experience has actually given me hope for the future of the music industry, as I believe many are open to positive change; sometimes, they just need a voice and a platform, which I aspire to provide.
