In Conversation with DIØN

DIØN has become a familiar name within the harder side of modern techno, known for fast-paced sets and music that balances pressure with emotion. Based in the Netherlands, he’s built his profile through consistent releases, long-form performances, and a clear connection to the rave-rooted side of the genre.

Before moving into electronic music, DIØN started out playing guitar and performing in rock bands, a background that still shapes how he thinks about structure and flow. Over time, tracks like Public Enemies and later releases through his own label, Rough Material, helped define his direction and gave him full control over how his music is released.

On stage, he’s best known for extended sets, including multiple marathon sessions at Thuishaven, where he’s able to take his time and move through different moods and tempos. He’s also played major events like Verknipt, reaching huge crowds while keeping his focus on the dance floor rather than spectacle.

In this interview, DIØN talks about where he started, how his sound has developed, and why longer sets matter to him. He also shares what influences him outside of club music and how personal experiences continue to shape the way he writes and performs.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I started with music as a guitarist when I was nine years old. Later, I played in a rock band with friends and eventually fell in love with electronic music.

If you weren’t a DJ/producer, what would you be?

That’s a very hard question, but as a creative person I would probably be designing clothes or visuals—something I’m already doing now with my label and clothing brand, Rough Material.

What’s the most memorable moment of your career?

Playing at Verknipt at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam. Playing my own music for 40,000 ravers is something I’ll never forget.

Who’s an artist that inspires you right now?

At the moment, I’m inspired by Hans Zimmer and M83 because of the depth they bring through sound. For my upcoming album, I really focused on putting emotion into the music, and listening to how certain sounds can create feeling helped shape that direction.

What’s a track you play when you want to hype the crowd?

My remix of the legendary track “Traffic” by Tiësto usually does the job because of its powerful build-up

What’s your go-to snack or drink before a show?

A shot of vodka, as far as I can remember—haha.

What’s your favorite city to play in, and why?

I don’t really have one favorite city, but I love playing in the Netherlands. I see so many familiar faces at my shows—people who have been coming to my sets for years.

How would you describe your sound in three words?

Emotional. Rough. Intimate.

What’s one non-music-related thing that makes you happy?

Having good food and drinks with family or friends.

What’s a track that always brings you back to your roots?

Since I’ve always loved rock music, hearing “Hotel California” by The Eagles really brings me back.

If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?

Armin van Buuren has always been a dream.

What’s your favorite non-music-related hobby?

Being on a boat with friends and a drink. It gives me a real sense of freedom.

If you could time travel to any era of music history, when would it be and why?

I listen to a lot of music from the ’70s and ’80s, ranging from disco to classic rock. I’m a big fan of Imagination, especially “Music and Lights,” and Shalamar’s “A Night to Remember.” I also love The Eagles and Dire Straits. I’d love to experience that era firsthand.

What’s a record that never leaves your crate or USB?

It has to be my first bigger track, “Public Enemies.” I still enjoy playing it.

If you weren’t touring or in the studio, where would we find you?

Probably hanging out with my friends. I’ve had the same close group for over 15 years, and they’ve always supported me.

What is something simple that makes you smile?

Seeing the people I love being happy.

What’s a memory you never want to let go of?

Bringing my grandmother to one of my shows. She’s over 80 years old and really understands what I’m doing. Whenever I finish a new track, she’s usually one of the first people to hear it.

When do you feel the most at peace?

After a workout, when I go to the sauna and leave my phone behind for a while.

What’s something normal to you that other people might find strange?

I have a very close relationship with my family and share almost everything with them. Some people might find that unusual.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say?

I think I can be proud of everything I’ve created, shared, and achieved so far.

Have you ever lost music you were working on?

Luckily, no. I’m very careful with my projects.

What makes you cringe when listening to your early material?

Mostly the arrangements and certain sample choices. But everyone has to start somewhere, and it’s nice to hear how much my music has improved over time.

What do you focus on most in the studio?

I love experimenting with synthesizers until I find one sound that really clicks. Once I have that, the entire track is already in my head before I start producing it.

What’s your favorite set length?

I can’t do it all the time, but I really love long sets. I’ve played four 10-hour sets at Thuishaven and one 11-hour set at Tegendraads. Those sets give me the freedom to tell a full story and move through different styles. For regular shows, I prefer two hours so I can still shape a clear flow.

If you could erase one genre forever, what would it be?

I don’t think I would remove any genre. There’s something valuable in all kinds of music, and I’m very open-minded when it comes to listening.