Todd Helder, the 19 year old Dutch DJ has been making noise overseas recently. Its been a combination of opening up shows for Martin Garrix and having some of his new music gain traction. Be sure to read our exclusive interview to learn more about the kid before he takes things to the next level! After the interview, check out one of his newest singles, Pixel Love below.
Exclusive Todd Helder Interview
*This interview was edited for clarity*
RMR: Congrats on your success so far, it’s incredible –
How long have you been DJing?
TH: From the age of 15 I started working on making music and for 2 years I have been at the Dutch Pop Academy in Utrecht but I am busy with music 24/7. I have been performing for a year now.
RMR: What do you attribute your success to so far? How did you at 19 years old, end up in the position you’re in?
TH: I participated in a remix contest for Marshmello’s ‘Alone’ and came second. I then received a booking request from India and therefore got in contact with David Lewis Productions Amsterdam. We made an appointment through an acquaintance and where I was introduced to my current manager. We worked really hard on my profile last year and I produced a lot of music. My manager then pitched my track ‘I Need’ to Martin Garrix’s label ‘STMPD RCRDS’ and that’s how everything started.
RMR: How did you get in touch with Martin Garrix and his team?
TH: I came into contact with STMPD RCRDS when my manager pitched my first single ‘I Need’ there. I pinch myself every day because I still can’t believe it’s real.
RMR: What sparked your interest to spend time behind a computer working with different sounds and turning them into songs and music?
TH: After school when I finished my homework, I would take my laptop and play around with FL STUDIO, I downloaded a sample pack for fun and just started to make music!
RMR: Your new single, Pixel Love is fantastic, do you have anything big planned for the next year? Any new music? A new EP? Any tours?
TH: Yes, I’m currently working on my album which is my main goal right now. I’ve been working on it for a while now, and it’s grown into something a lot bigger than I thought it would be.
RMR: What would you love to accomplish as a music artist? What’s a big goal that you’re after?
TH: One day I hope to be able to perform at Coachella and in the future have my own solo shows. I would also love to collaborate with Dua Lipa because she has a very nice voice!
RMR: What has been a highlight of your career so far? A moment that has stuck out more than others.
TH: The highlight of my career so far has to be performing at Ushuaïa Ibiza where I’m supporting Martin Garrix, then being in the green room, meeting all of the DJs I have always looked up to was very special.
RMR: Do you have any advice for people that are just getting started in a DJ and producing career?
TH: I don’t believe that I’m in the best position yet to give advice to others as I am still an aspiring DJ and producer myself. But if someone does ask me, I would tell them to watch tutorials on Youtube (for example zenworld).
RMR: If you could collaborate with any artist out there, who would it be?
TH: I’m a big fan of Dua Lipa and Skrillex is very, very high up on my list of people I’d like to work with. I love to work with different artists and genres that offer a different musical style to my own. I like to incorporate a fusion of trap, instrumental hip-hop and hints of EDM in my own productions.
RMR: If you aren’t doing anything music related, what can Todd Helder be found doing?
TH: I always wanted to be a professional soccer player, because I love to play with my friends and I love winning as well, so I do play in my spare time.
