Apache: Never underestimate the power of the ripple effect

Known for his comprehensive musical approach, Miami-based French artist
Apache, enchanted audiences with hypnotic sets bringing hedonistic experiences through events set on the global electronic scene. With upcoming releases, a full calendar and his infectious sound, Apache is a name to watch.

Born into a family of music collectors, the young talent was enchanted by his father’s vintage Technics record player and from an early age obtained imposing references through the musicality of Jean Michel Jarre and Giorgio Moroder.

Human beings are all connected in the vision of the artist who seeks to convey his emotions and energy through music to his listeners.

A citizen of the world, a curious and incessant student, Apache began his studies in record stores, festivals and clubs throughout France.

It didn’t take long before he felt ready and embarked on a personal and professional journey to challenge himself as an artist on a tour that took him to Ibiza, Mexico, Singapore and Australia.

From studies to practice, from practice to perfection, the artist has become a consistent highlight on the global electronic scene, sharing decks with important names such as Keinemusik, Black Coffee, Damian Lazarus, Monolink, among others.

Apache closed one of his most exciting European Summer tours to date, balancing a demanding solo tour schedule with his own Soundtuary brand shows and collaborating with his fellow mentors.

His last Summer hit ‘Nothing On Me’ resonated deeply with audiences, drawing on awe-inspiring vocals and powerful basslines. Always on the search for unique locations to connect with his audience and allow them to experience electronic music in a new way.

In this cover story more than a strong background story we invite everyone to embark on a journey through the universe of Apache and his borderless sound art.

Adrien, thank you so much for taking the time to interview with us. How did you close this Summer tour?

It was extremely busy! I have been ticking many shows off my bucket list this Summer, and getting to know and connect with broader audiences, sounds and places. That’s what’s important to me.

I might have just hit the 1.000.000 miles mark but I feel indifferent about how that sounds, I’m just super grateful for each promoter on this tour and how far my music allows me to go.

You recently played for Cercle in France, which must have been exciting. How did it happen?

I have been talking with Phil & Derek for a few years now for different projects, and the idea of playing for Cercle has always been on my mind.

Phil, who is in charge of the creative direction, proposed playing in my home country alongside Shimza, in a hilltop fortress built in the 13th century in Sisteron. I accepted right away.

Cercle is one of my favorite names in the industry, what they have built is really special and close to my heart. The team they’ve put together is great, really next level event producers ahead of the curve.

You just played for Abracadabra in São Paulo alongside Blond:ish, how did it go?

I literally flew right after my show in Ibiza to São Paulo, and I went straight to the DJ Booth after landing. I ended up playing a 2h sunrise set B2B with my friend BLOND:ISH while some power rangers took over the dancefloor. Fun times…

Abracadabra and Brazil are one of my favorite places to play at, so this was one of my top shows this year. It may sound cliché to say that but there is a special energy here, the response after my B2B set with BLON:DISH has been overwhelming.

What are other highlights of this Summer and some of the upcoming shows in Brazil you are the most excited about?

I played for this super cool Festival called Ondalinda in Montenegro, the whole crowd was dressed up and the location was one of the sickest places I’ve played at.

Nordstern Basel’s crowd was amazing this year, playing on France’s Bastille Day with the fireworks made it extra special.

Also, Savaya Bali is a beautiful and energetic venue in South-East Asia, it was my third time there this year and first time as a headliner with an extended 5-hour set.

I’m closing the year in Brazil, I will be back on December 13 for Club Vibe in Curitiba and Breakfast club in São Paulo on the 14th.

I’m also bringing my show Soundtuary to the main room of the legendary Warung on December 27 alongside Carlita and Albuquerque.

I’m also bringing Soundtuary again to Rio on December 28 and for Carnaval in collaboration with our good friend André from Body & Soul with an amazing line-up this year. Will keep you posted, I’m excited!

How would you describe the energy flow between you and the audience?

Talking about energy, I think Djing is one of the only crafts where an artist can receive instant feedback from the audience. If you play a bad track you’ll feel it, and if you play a banger they’ll let you know right away.

For someone like me, that energy and interaction is at the center of my sets…it’s amazing! I believe it is a reciprocity between feeling the audience and taking them on the journey you want at the same time.

You seem to talk a lot about the ripple effect, what does it mean to you?

Music for me is the only thing on earth which is multilingual and border crossing. If I make a record in Miami, I don’t speak Japanese but maybe someone in Japan might understand and be impacted by the feelings I’ve put in my music.

It’s one of the greatest human connectors of all, that’s why you should never underestimate the power of the ripple effect. Music has the potential to create a chain reaction that can touch the lives of others and inspire farther away from where it originated.

For a musician on tour continuously, what are the must have items you absolutely need with you at all times?

I love my earplugs, I use them for playing but the same for relaxing, sleeping, being on the plane, etc. It’s my favorite tool to get away from the craziness of this touring life (Loop earplugs are the best).

Also, I recently got my hands on Rampa’s TEILE Revolo + Isolator all new black edition and can’t wait to test them on the road.

Something I’m seeking more this year is collaborating with brands I love and I think it’s something that DJs should embrace to diversify their audience and create bridges with other industries, it’s an important part of how an artist’s ecosystem should evolve.

Is there a possibility of a surprise collaboration, whether in the studio or on stage with another name from Brazil?

Yes! I’m also excited to be releasing new music soon, a collaboration with an amazing Brazilian producer and singers on one of my favorite French labels. Stay tuned, still looking for a name for the track, any ideas?

Any last advice you would give for new DJs starting a career?

There is always a learning curve that never ends no matter how established you are. I would say focus on the quality of your delivery, performance and music.

If I were to think of practical advice I would say when preparing a set, the two most important tracks are the intro and the last track.

I always know what my intro track is, it will set the whole vibe for the entire set.

Connect with APACHE: Instagram | Soundcloud | The Soundtuary