Linking Up with Andre Power
Andre Power has built a career on connecting people through music, art, and culture. As the co-founder of Soulection and the creator of LINK UP, his global event series, he’s played in over 50 countries while giving a platform to emerging DJs and fostering spaces for genuine interaction. Since its debut in 2021, LINK UP has grown from a post-pandemic day party in Los Angeles into an international fixture, with editions in cities like London, Atlanta, and Amsterdam. Power keeps the vision personal—designing event artwork himself, handpicking diverse lineups, and tailoring each city’s edition to fill gaps in its nightlife. In this interview, he talks about what goes into curating LINK UP, why community matters in nightlife, and how he keeps the series feeling fresh as it grows.
When you’re curating a new LINK UP city, what’s the first thing you look for?
I always consider whether the city even needs another party. Even though everything about LINK UP is special and intentional, I never want it to feel like just another party in just another city. With LINK UP, and much of what I do, there’s always an aim and purpose—to fill a gap for what’s needed and missing.
What’s something behind the scenes at LINK UP that people don’t realize takes a lot of effort?
Each LINK UP features a diverse lineup of DJs, with a focus on taking the party through a journey by intentionally curating set times. I also make a point of giving newer DJs opportunities. For example, in Los Angeles, four years in, it’s rare that I book the same DJ twice.
What’s the last set you played that really stuck with you, and why?
The premiere of LINK UP was a special one, not only because it was the first international edition of the event, but also because London is my personal favorite city to DJ in. The audience there really understands and appreciates art and music unlike anywhere else I’ve been.
Is there a specific artist you’ve booked at LINK UP that you feel everyone should be watching right now?
Some of my favorite DJ sets at LINK UP, and artists who have since gone on to bigger things, include Anastazja from LA and DJ Mochi from Chicago.
How do you think your visual art background influences the way LINK UP looks and feels?
I think branding consistency and evolution are really important. I’ve put a lot of thought into designing the flyers for each event so they stay consistent but still evolve over time. I also make sure the flyer art connects to the actual event—for example, incorporating plants into both.
What gave you the idea to start this brand?
The idea for LINK UP came at the very end of the global pandemic. I noticed how much people wanted to be physically connected again after lockdown, while still feeling safe. It was during the last month or two of the mask mandate, when people were finally starting to feel comfortable gathering again.
How do you personally stay grounded with so much travel and output?
Travel and connecting with new people around the world actually keep me grounded and inspire my work. I’m constantly learning while on the road, and those experiences always shape my output in the best way.
What role do you think community really plays in the future of nightlife?
I believe nightlife is nothing without community. Events and promoters need to keep growing, elevating, and—most importantly—listening to what’s missing in nightlife and what people truly want.
What’s your pre-show ritual—or do you just wing it?
I don’t have much of a pre-show ritual. I just like to feel rested and make sure I’ve sorted my music for the upcoming set. If it’s a new city or anywhere outside of LA, I often arrive a day early to get a feel for the place, maybe by visiting a local bar, lounge, or party.
How did you come up with the name LINK UP?
I wanted something literal that flowed off the tongue, a phrase that was also an action—something that captured the reconnection of a community after the global pandemic.
