Desa Dialogues EP003: HAAi ー A discussion on creative flow, her introduction to electronic music, and supporting emerging artists

For episode three in our Desa Dialogues series, we spoke to London-based artist HAAi during her stay with us for a DJ performance at Klymax Discotheque — part way through a marathon 56-day tour.

HAAi is a respected DJ and producer whose floor-focused and psychedelic sound has seen her invited to compile a mix for the benchmark DJ Kicks series, hold a residency on BBC Radio 1, and tour the world playing at iconic venues and festivals. She began self-releasing on her own Coconut Beats label before signing to groundbreaking UK label, with whom she’s released a pair of acclaimed EPs and an album, with a follow-up LP scheduled for release later this year. She speaks about her approach to production, including embracing “happy accidents” while composing her work.

“I just think there are so many artists who don’t get the opportunity to be heard.”

HAAi has recently launched her own party series with “a message of community and togetherness,” Unison. In the interview she discusses the process of programming the inaugural event — inviting a mix of unannounced established artists and carving an opening for emerging artists to perform via a mixtape competition. Offering a platform for up-and-coming acts is something she feels very strongly about — having been supported throughout her career by the likes of pioneering producer, Richie Hawtin, **HAAi is passionate about using her platform to usher in talented artists who might otherwise struggle to be heard in today’s saturated musical landscape. **

Having started out performing and recording in bands before branching out as a solo electronic producer, HAAi shares her experience of both sonic ventures and how they helped shape her journey. She discusses her introduction to music, being bitten by the ‘electronic bug’ at her first visit to the iconic Berlin venue, Berghain, and describes what it’s like to get caught in a tornado while on tour in Texas.

Head to the Potato Head Bali YouTube channel to watch the full conversation.