“I write as I feel, and then the concepts, such as the titles and instrumentals, just come together and make sense,” HELANG explains. This intuitive process captures the essence of the Chinese-American DJ and producer’s creative process, allowing her music to blend emotional depth with the energy of techno and dance music. With her new EP Life Is Music releasing via her own imprint, Dauntless Records, HELANG continues to push her boundaries as an artist, using experimentation to explore new territories.
Born into a musically inclined household, HELANG’s journey began with classical piano training and choir singing during her childhood. By high school, her interest in electronic music had taken hold, transforming her dreams of becoming a pop star into the pursuit of a career as a DJ and producer. Her energetic nature, combined with the urge to give things their meaning and the strength of her femininity, form the foundation of her art.
In our interview, we discuss the making of her EP, the balance of vulnerability and confidence in her music, and what it means to build her own label, Dauntless Records.
header photo: press courtesy
You are about to release your new EP “Life Is Music.” I just listened to the title track, and I love how the atmosphere suddenly changes at around 2:17. I really like that unexpected calm part that transitions back into a strong techno sound. How did both parts of the track come together? Did you have a concept in mind, or do your songs come more from experimentation?
My songs definitely come more from experimentation. The core value is always present in my songs, but I write as I feel and then the concepts such as the titles and instrumentals just come together and they make sense. To me that is the beauty of song-writing and creating because you really just pour so much of your thoughts, emotions and personality out of you without having to use words to explain them. For me I love the contrast between the energetic yet emotional energies in dance music, and that’s how I inspire myself to combine calm, emotional instrumentals with a sexy, upbeat techno beat.
You mentioned that the two tracks have a perfect juxtaposition—while “From The Back” is more sexy and badass, “Life Is Music” is more emotional and vulnerable. What story or inspiration lies behind these two titles and songs?
Everything I create is inspired by self discovery, experimenting with new things and adventures, and the beauty of self expression. Just like my last EP “The Lovers Of The Unknown”, “From The Back” continues to champion women’s ability to express, create, and be themselves in the most sexy way possible. However sometimes it can be hard to fully embrace all that because of the society we live in. I want others and myself to know that it is ok to doubt yourself. At the end of the day, we have the power to be as badass and unapologetically feminine as we want, but it’s also ok to let our guard down and show our vulnerabilities. Being emotional does not equal being weak.
“Success is not getting what you want but realizing what you want, who we are, and how we carry ourselves.”
The EP is being released via your own imprint, Dauntless Records. What was your main motivation for starting your own label? How has having your own imprint shaped this EP?
I started my own label in an attempt to connect with the underground music community, but more importantly give myself a platform to be able to express and create freely without any boundaries or expectations. This mission of mine plays into all the music I create and release, including “From The Back”.
What advice would you give to others looking to start their own record label? What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in that journey?
I would tell people to make sure they have a good distributor looking after their label, and really do their research to understand what goes into being a label owner. It is a lot of work, and it requires a good amount of dedication and patience to grow overtime. My biggest challenge was dealing with the admin side of things, but as long as you put in the effort, you will figure it out. As an independent artist I would also even say that it is vital to have your own imprint, while simultaneously releasing music on other labels. It is a very good way to brand yourself on your own terms.
You’ve chosen H0L0 in Brooklyn as the venue for your debut Dauntless Records showcase. What do you love about this place, and why did you choose it for your event?
H0L0 is just iconic. One thing I will always emphasize is the music. It all comes back to the music. I want to give people an experience where they feel welcomed and accepted to be whoever they want to be, and this venue is the place for that. It has a dark, intimate warehouse vibe with minimal lighting and a good sound system which is perfect for dancing and bonding.
“At the end of the day, we have the power to be as badass and unapologetically feminine as we want, but it’s also ok to let our guard down and show our vulnerabilities. Being emotional does not equal being weak.”
As an artist, when you release your “art,” you never know how it will be received by the audience. What is your wish for how people perceive your album, or what do you hope they take away from your music?
All I wish for is my art to make people feel a certain way. It’s important to keep in mind that music isn’t just about partying. It is also about self-expression and clarity. I want to bring joy to people’s lives but also let them know that it is ok to feel the negative emotions as well, and that there is beauty to struggles and hardship, as long as they are dealt with in a positive and healthy way. I am here to break down those barriers for people while encouraging people to live life on their own terms. That can mean letting loose at a party or rave but also choosing to party in any way they see fit for themselves.
How did you get into being a DJ/producer?
I have been musically inclined my whole life. I was classically trained on the piano and sang solo and in choirs all throughout my childhood and adolescent years. By the time I was in high school, I fell in love with electronic music, and my dream to be a popstar turned into a dj. I faced some hardships during those years but when I decided to take music seriously and pursue it as a career in in my early 20s, it felt like a full circle moment for me because that’s when I truly realized that nothing makes me feel the way music does.
You asked your fans on Instagram, “What does techno mean to them?” What does techno mean to you?
Techno is meant to make people dance. There is no specific formula to it, but generally speaking it is the driving bassline and powerful kick that brings uniqueness to the sound of it as a whole. The reason why I love techno is because it makes me feel sexy, empowered, and badass. In the end of the day it can mean very different things to different people but I believe it is about being well-rounded and open minded to the everchanging electronic music landscape.
“All I wish for is my art to make people feel a certain way. It’s important to keep in mind that music isn’t just about partying. It is also about self-expression and clarity.”
In one of your other posts, you wrote, “I am here to make you feel something. I am here to empower the ladies,” alongside the video and song “From The Back.” Can you explain more about what you mean by that?
One of my main visions in pursuing this music journey is to use my platform as a voice for the community. I am here to champion people of all kinds, but women specifically because the women in electronic music are highly underrepresented. It is important to foster a community of inclusivity and diversity in this space and I am here to help in any way I can. My message to the community is and always will be: We deserve to express ourselves in any way that makes us feel whole. Women deserve to express their sexual and emotional needs the same way that men do.
I love one of your quotes where you say that you’ve learned a lot about yourself this year and who you want to become. You mention we live in a hustle culture or “chase your dreams” mentality, where many don’t realize the amount of persistence and dedication involved. Your conclusion is, “Success is not getting what you want but realizing what you want, who we are, and how we carry ourselves.” So, who do you want to become, and how do you want to carry yourself through life?
I want to be someone who is genuinely proud of the art I am creating and the community I am building through that. It’s easy to get lost in the chase of accomplishments and goals, but no matter what I try my best to always remind myself why I am doing this. I have many flaws but one thing I always honor is my dedication, consistency, and passion for my beliefs.
Follow HELANG for more:
www.instagram.com/helang___
www.facebook.com/helangmusic
