Interview with Orlando Voorn

An Interview with Orlando Voorn: A Timeless Visionary in Electronic Music

Few artists have had such a profound impact on electronic music as Orlando Voorn. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been instrumental in shaping the sound of techno, house, electro, and beyond. Known for his pioneering role in bridging the gap between European and Detroit techno, Voorn has consistently pushed musical boundaries while staying true to his artistic vision.

Now, with his latest release, Activated EP on Dark Distorted Signals, the label of Willem Voet, he continues to showcase his relentless creativity and forward-thinking approach to music. Blending raw energy with intricate sound design, this new EP reaffirms his position as a true innovator in the electronic scene.

From his early days experimenting with drum machines to his current work merging classic analogue elements with cutting-edge digital production, Orlando Voorn remains as innovative as ever. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his evolution, the industry’s transformation, and what the future holds for his ever-expanding sonic universe.

feeder: Your career spans over three decades, making you one of the pioneers of the electronic music scene. How would you describe your musical evolution over the years?

My journey has been a continuous process of exploration and reinvention. From my early days in the ’80s to today, I have moved through multiple genres, from techno and house to electro and breakbeat. I’ve always been interested in blending different styles rather than sticking to just one. Music is constantly evolving, and I have always wanted to be at the forefront of that change.

feeder: You played a crucial role in connecting European techno with the Detroit scene. How was that experience, and what impact did it have on your career?

Orlando Voorn: That was an incredibly inspiring time. Detroit has always been a reference point for me, and I had the opportunity to connect with great figures like Juan Atkins and Derrick May. It was a cultural and musical exchange where I learned a lot about the essence of techno. That influence shaped my sound and the way I approached music production.

f: Technology has changed immensely over the decades. How has it influenced your creative process and production style?

Orlando Voorn: When I started, everything was hardware—drum machines, synthesizers, and samplers. Now, with digital production, the possibilities are endless. I like to combine the best of both worlds: I use classic machines to maintain the analogue soul of my music while also taking advantage of the flexibility that modern DAWs offer. The key is to find a balance between technology and musical intuition.

f: You have released music under various aliases and on a wide range of labels. What drives you to explore so many different paths, and how do you decide which label to release on?

OV: For me, each alias and label represents a different side of my creativity. I don’t want to limit myself to one sound, which is why I use different names for specific styles. When it comes to labels, I look for those who understand and respect my artistic vision. I’m not just interested in releasing music—I want to work with platforms that genuinely believe in what I do.

f: What’s your take on the current state of electronic music, especially with the rise of streaming and fast-paced consumption culture?

OV: It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, streaming has made music more accessible to everyone, which is great. But on the other hand, it has shortened the lifespan of releases. Music today is consumed quickly and often forgotten just as fast. That’s why I think it’s important to focus on quality over quantity and create musical experiences that truly connect with people.

f: You’ve collaborated with many big names in electronic music. What has been your most memorable collaboration, and why?

OV: I’ve been fortunate to work with many legends, but if I had to highlight one, it would probably be my work with Juan Atkins. His musical vision and understanding of techno have always inspired me. It was an honour to collaborate with him and learn from his experience.

f: What’s next for Orlando Voorn in the coming months? Are there any special releases or projects on the horizon?

OV: I’m working on several projects, including a new album where I’m blending classic elements of my sound with contemporary influences. I also have upcoming releases under different aliases, exploring everything from house to electro. And, of course, I’ll continue performing at events and festivals, bringing my music to live audiences where it truly comes to life.