Ben Fonnix, a Joburg based high energy DJ and an Electronica power fuelled, producer who has been blazing up dance floors at major clubs in the Vaal, outdoor music festivals and high profile concerts nationwide. A  self confessed Tech House, Minimal and Techno junkie he keeps things original by juggling the balancing act between diversifying and and remaining true to his own taste…

You label yourself as a Tech House, Techno and Minimal artist. How important is it to you to keep your sound pure to that feel?

Since the early days of my DJ career, I’ve always looked past the norm and attempted to push the boundaries of what can and will be played. I think that real entertainment comes from the soul and you have to feel what you play! I never plan my sets as this keeps things fresh and original! Techno, Minimal and Tech house is what I derive the most energy from. I like to incorporate many different sub genres of these styles. I’m addicted to the heavy bass lines you could say! I get mounds of energy in my sets from hearing the speakers bleed with hot sounds and vibrations!

dePSYfer_aka ben fonnix_nov_2011_techno_promo_mix by benfonnix

You have played at many different events and festivals in your time as a DJ. Name one that distinctively stands out in your memory and why?

The gig that stands out for me the most without a doubt would have to be playing at H20 – Deadmau5. Firstly I am a massive fan of the legendary Deadmau5 and to see him perform has been a dream of mine for many years! It was truly a privilege to be included in this massive event’s artist line up. I completely rocked the floor with an unbelievable and original set; without a doubt my favourite event of all time.

How different would a set of yours be at Black Orchid to a set at Manhattan night clubs in Joburg?

I keep all my sets fresh, at clubs like Manhattan I would be spinning funky tech house with a commercial feel. I also like to incorporate loads of sexy house tracks to keep the masses entertained and jamming hard! My sets in the past at a venue like Black Orchid were very experimental, I used the fact that the crowds are so mixed and different to experiment with multi genre sets! Some nights i would be seen playing deep progressive sounds and moving slowly into an up beat electro mash up!

How relevant do you think it is for producers to cross genres and diversify the make-up of their sound?

Producers need to keep to their originality as much as they have to keep to interest in their production. I strongly believe a good producer is someone who can balance them both.

How long would it normally take you to produce one track?

Tracks that ive made in the past took me anywhere from a a week to a month to make, im a perfectionist to say the least! If  I don’t feel a hundred percent about a track I’ll scrap it then and there! Production is amazing and can show your creative side but I’m a club DJ through and through!

What do you think South African Dance music could be still be missing at this point?

I don’t believe we are missing anything, South African dance music has come a long way over the years and the tracks that are out i believe are of international quality. South African producers are taking things to the next level and most definitely putting SA on the map with the world wide dance community.

One thing your fans will be surprised to know about you is…

I love these questions!! Something no one knows is that I listen to Jazz. I don’t see it as a bad thing, I appreciate good quality music regardless of the style and i find that after a night spinning beats at 130bpm there is nothing better than some chilled out Jazz music to let your ears heal and your body rest.

What can we expect next out the kitchen?

As everyone knows i promote many club events, 2012 is going to be a huge year filled with many massive events. There is much to be excited about for 2012 including MASSIVE festivals and huge international artists who are coming to rock your socks off!