Simon Grieu / GOLDEN
Tell us more about yourself and your music career:
I was immersed in music from an early age, thanks to my mother, who sang in a choir. I studied music theory from ages 5 to 10, and by 14, I had my first vinyl turntables. Self-taught, I quickly moved on to CD decks and developed a passion for crafting sounds. Becoming a resident DJ in Parisian clubs helped shape my journey, and today, at 30, I’ve only recently decided to release some of my productions online.
I’m fascinated by deep house, as it brings new life to music from any genre, making it resonate in clubs and getting people to dance again. This style also fosters unity—there’s no place for racism in deep house, as you can find anything from Afro to country to Latin influences in it.
Write a short paragraph about your release:
I wanted to blend deep house with Middle Eastern-inspired sounds, driven by the rhythmic pulse of claves that create a hypnotic, shamanic vibe. The track builds gradually, with an entrancing vocal guiding the listener through a journey that’s both mysterious and energizing. It’s crafted to transport you while keeping a vibrant, danceable energy throughout.
What is your connection with Cafe De Anatolia?
I’ve been following Cafe De Anatolia for years, and the artists on this label have been a major source of inspiration for me. I truly resonate with their music and vision. I’m flattered that they took the time to listen to and even appreciate my work! I’m grateful for their trust, and I look forward to starting an exciting, emotional journey alongside them.
Simon Grieu / GOLDEN
Can you share a memorable moment from your music career that made a significant impact on your artistic journey?
I’m currently enrolled in a mastering and equalization course at Abbey Road Studios. Our first session with the director focused on arranging a project from the demo stage to the final album release. I was captivated by the attention to detail and the creative input of everyone involved. It’s inspiring, and I want my own projects to go through those same transformative steps.
As an artist, how do you approach the creative process?
I enjoy solitude when creating, and I like to be in a comfortable space with my Ableton Live project well-organized and structured. Before starting a project, I listen to 10 albums from 10 different genres, taking notes on interesting elements from each. It’s not about combining them all, but rather searching for tools and ideas to help me build a track. This method gives me a broad palette to work with, allowing creativity to flow more naturally.
What do you believe sets your music apart from others in the industry?
I believe what sets my music apart is the diverse musical journey I’ve been through. I’ve explored EDM, drill, French and US rap, rock, oriental music, and even classical. These influences have given me a broad musical culture, and I think they equip me with the tools to bring a fresh perspective to deep house. It’s this blend of experiences that allows me to innovate and create a unique sound within the genre.
What are your latest releases? Are you working on something new?
A number of DJs have shortlisted my tracks and started playing them, which is giving me some visibility. The feedback has been positive so far, and it’s opening up a few opportunities. I’m currently working on several projects, and it’s very likely that some new productions will be released soon!
Could you share your thoughts on the role of live performances in connecting with your audience and building a dedicated fan base?
Live performances have a unique role in connecting with an audience on a deeper level. They’re an opportunity to convey emotions in a way that recordings alone can’t always achieve. The energy of the crowd, their reactions, and the shared experience create a bond that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Playing live also allows artists to grow and evolve. Testing out unreleased tracks during a set provides instant feedback and inspires creative ideas for future projects. It’s also an opportunity to showcase authenticity—performing your own productions on stage demonstrates dedication and passion for your craft.
Finally, live performances aren’t just about the music. The visual elements—lighting, stage design, and visuals—add another layer to the experience, making it unforgettable for the audience.
In short, live performances are much more than just promotional events; they’re moments of genuine connection, creativity, and artistic expression that help build a loyal and dedicated fan base.
“Aleinou” by Golden – Release date: January 7, 2025 via Cafe De Anatolia