[INTERVIEW] Oliver Heldens Talks South America, HI-LO, And Wild Bootshaus Nights
Few artists today navigate the worlds of commercial dance and underground techno with as much style and intention as Oliver Heldens. With his chart-topping productions and a darker alias HI-LO making waves in the global techno circuit, the Dutch producer continues to push musical boundaries — and connect with fans in the most unexpected ways.
Fresh off a vibrant tour through South America and moments before taking over the decks at Cologne’s legendary Bootshaus, Heldens sat down with us for an open conversation on music, identity, and why certain venues bring out the boldest side of him.
South America: Passionate Fans and Personal Moments
Heldens’ recent return to South America was nothing short of emotional. “It’s always really special playing there,” he says. “The fans are just incredibly passionate. The energy is different — intense, in the best way.”
He played two sets in Lima (as both HI-LO and Oliver Heldens), followed by two more in Buenos Aires. “In Lima, we even did a fan day — we brought fans backstage before the festival. They gave me gifts: an alpaca and a capybara plush. That kind of passion stays with you.”
Buenos Aires held particular meaning. “I hadn’t been there in eight years — COVID made scheduling so hard. Some fans told me they’d been waiting all this time. That’s humbling.”
What stood out most, though, was his commitment to tailoring his shows. “In Peru, I added Peruvian music and Spanish lyrics; in Argentina, local classics. We even remixed Brazilian and Argentinian music for those shows. I want the crowd to feel that we’ve thought about them, not just played the usual set.”
After the final show, he and his team traveled to Patagonia to film a live stream with his longtime security guard, who now lives in the mountains. “We grilled Argentinian-style, had drones flying, a lake in the background… it was beautiful. I think the footage will feel really personal.”
Bootshaus: “The Wildest, Most Joyful Chaos”
Our interview takes place backstage at Bootshaus, one of Germany’s most iconic clubs — and a special place for Heldens.
“This venue is insane. I first played here in 2014, and it left a mark,” he explains. “It’s not just iconic — it’s alive. The crowd surrounds you, you’re right in the middle. And the energy is absolutely mental.”
He describes it fondly, and with humor: “It’s a massive sausage fest — tons of guys going wild. But there’s also this pack of fearless girls jumping into the pit. Everyone’s just… joyful. And totally in sync.”
That collective energy is why he loves trying new things at Bootshaus. “I’ve got a hardcore track I didn’t dare play in South America. But here? Perfect place to drop it. When you’ve got two hours and a crowd like this, you can really go deep and weird — and they’ll love it.”
HI-LO: The Long Game of Artistic Freedom
One of the most fascinating parts of Heldens’ career has been the evolution of HI-LO, his techno-focused alter ego. What began as a side project has grown into a full-fledged identity that resonates across the underground scene.
“I started HI-LO 10 years ago, even before the techno boom,” he shares. “At first, it was this hybrid — bass house, tech house, a bit of electro — but with clear techno influences. I always knew I wanted to push it further.”
That vision has matured over time, shaped by artists like Enrico Sangiuliano and Umek, and refined by countless sets in dark, sweat-soaked clubs. “Now, HI-LO is full-on techno, but I still like to blur lines. At my shows, you might hear Speed Garage, hard trance, even some hard techno or Death Gabber. People are more open now — boundaries are disappearing.”
What’s most freeing, he says, is being able to switch between the HI-LO and Oliver Heldens identities. “I can blend tracks, surprise people, and explore sounds that wouldn’t work at a mainstream festival. And that’s the beauty of where the scene is today.”
Music, Meaning & Staying Grounded
Toward the end of our talk, we asked Oliver to describe a special thing that Music had brought him and what it truly means to him. His answer is sincere.
“Music has been my dream job since I was a kid. Even before I made music, I wanted to be an artist or architect. I just loved creating. But what’s surprised me most is the emotional impact it has on other people. Seeing how music connects, uplifts, and inspires — that’s what gives me the deepest fulfillment.”
When we asked about his dream B2B sets, he didn’t shy away from experimenting or taking creative risks. If anything, he welcomes it. “I’m open to all kinds of collabs. I’d love to go B2B with Disclosure, Boys Noize, Sammy Virji, or Trim. I just love their energy and mixing things up.”
A Night to Remember
As the lights dim and the bass begins to shake Bootshaus, Heldens steps into the booth — calm, focused, and smiling. Whether it’s under his own name or as HI-LO, he’s an artist who constantly evolves without losing touch with what really matters: the fans, the music, and the joy of playing loud, bold, unforgettable sets. Check out our review of the night that unfolded.
In places like South America and iconic clubs like Bootshaus, that joy isn’t just heard — it’s felt.
