Sander Kleinenberg

After something of a hiatus, legendary electronic star Sander Kleinenberg is back.

Often mentioned when talking about the first wave of superstar DJ from the turn of century, Suchman Sander brought a mixture of genres and styles like never heard before. He played all over the world, released classic tracks on influential labels like Spinnin Records and Armada Music, and has remixed everyone from Daft Punk to Madonna.

2024 will mark a year of rejuvenation for him with new music on the way, a world tour later in the year, and much more. Before that he plays alongside Julian Prince, Magit Cacoon and more for SXM's upcoming Ibiza event series.

Tickets for the next SXM event on 9th August, featuring Sander, can be found here

You've been a pivotal figure in the electronic music scene for over twenty-five years. How does it feel to be back performing and releasing new music after your period of rejuvenation?

It feels very natural, I wish I had taken a break like this earlier on in my career. When this scene started there were no limitations, no outcome was certain, there was no idea on how long it would continue. Therefore a lot of guys like me just kept on touring and kept on going, afraid that we would lose what we so carefully built. In hindsight it cost a few of us dearly, creatively, physically and emotionally. I must say that with this break came so much clarity on who I am and what I want. I feel better than ever musically to be honest.

Can you tell us more about what you’ve been doing in your most recent years, any projects you wish to highlight to us?

I was and am involved in a family business involving social media and when covid hit that really took a pretty big leap. I loved working in the shadows in a different type of business, it gave me a great understanding of where I had made my own luck happen or indeed where I made mistakes. Apart from that I started a company with a sustainable mission to take out plastic from the environment called GreenBlue.

You have recently posted about a significant moment in Buenos Aires where bringing your daughter gave you a new perspective on your career. How has this experience influenced your current approach to djing and producing music?

Seeing the world through the eyes of someone younger made me realise that being relevant or making a difference has nothing to do with age. You either understand and translate the vibe or you don't. My daughter’s musical taste is very mature and of course she is a bit biassed, but we also raised her to be critical of herself and her surroundings. Seeing myself still intune with a younger vibration gave me confidence. Confidence to be out there and make a difference. Getting feedback from her was a great lesson.

How do you balance the personal enjoyment of sharing music with the pressures and competitiveness of the music industry? Have you found a new way to navigate this balance since your return?

I feel no competitiveness at all, i think that is what this new approach and what this break has given me. A total humbleness of what i have been capable to do in the past and an open mind to what i may bring tomorrow. I just translate vibes and channel them to dancefloors. I am not any Nobel prize winning genius. I am just lucky to be able to do what i do and i am planning on doing that for as long as people say: “Hey that's pretty dope, i'll dance to that”

You've been made a resident at the newly launched SXM Festival’s Ibiza event series at Akasha. What can fans expect from your performances?

A mixture of all the things I have learned, loved and danced too. SXM are experts in enhancing experiences, their annual St Maarten festival has become an industry standard on getting it right. I feel honoured to be a part of that.

Your instagram quote mentions the industry changes and the impact of Covid-19 on your career decisions. How did this period of introspection and spending time with your family shape your creative process?

It made me realise I was taking a lot of things seriously. My self doubt led to unhealthy perfectionism, I have learned to let go of searching for that truth because it doesn't exist and searching for that only blocks the bigger picture.

As someone who has continually evolved and pushed boundaries in electronic music, what trends or changes in the industry excite you the most right now?

I am pretty excited about the return of longer sets, longer tracks, and a sort of return of the dj set as a journey. After all, that's where I came from. It seems that people are open again to be slowly taken away and I am here for it once again.

You've had an extensive career with numerous highlights. Are there any specific moments or achievements that stand out to you as particularly meaningful?

Looking back is not really my thing. I tend to think more about this now!

With your long history in the music industry, what advice would you give to aspiring DJ’s and Producers who are just starting their careers?

All that I said above somehow attributes to a healthier approach, if you find success, don't let that define you and keep a distance from the rat race it can become. Creativity comes when you are free to make crazy choices, so don't let success dictate your path.

Finally, looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future? How do you see your music and performances evolving in the coming years?

I am planning to have a good time. Whoever wants to join me is more than welcome. I am taking it day by day!