German producer and label boss Alfred Heinrichs recently dropped ‘Regenbogenbrücke (Let Them Go)’ featuring Haexxa on his personal imprint, IAM MELODIC TECHNO. Having completed the next chapter of his emotional journey with his forthcoming album, ‘I AM YOU,’ which will be released later this year on the imprint- Alfred continues to channel his life experiences into his music, touching the hearts of listeners. He took some time to chat with us about the imprint, going solo, and gig life. Enjoy!
WWD: Alfred, your latest single ‘Regenbogenbrücke (Let Them Go)’ featuring Haexxa dives into deep emotional themes like loss and renewal. What inspired the creation of this track, and how did the collaboration with Haexxa come about?
Since I’ve always expressed all my feelings and experiences through music, I processed the loss of a loved one in ‘Regenbogenbrücke.’
WWD: With ‘Regenbogenbrücke’ being a preview of your upcoming album ‘I AM YOU,’ what can fans expect from the album as a whole? How does this project differ from your previous works?
Music is my emotional diary, and this album is another page in it. That’s why every album is a new story from my life. I’ve processed the last five years of my emotional experiences. Every phase of life, with its associated growth, differs from the one before it, and so does the music that comes out of it. In each of my albums—each chapter—I can listen back to and relive every experience, which means I can feel it all over again.
WWD: The music video for ‘Regenbogenbrücke’ features serene lakeside imagery and vibrant rainbows. Can you talk about the symbolism behind the visuals and how they connect with the track’s message?
Every ending holds the seed of a new beginning. Where a flower wilts now, a new one will grow later. Everything moves in the constant cycle of life.
WWD: You’re known for your energetic and emotive melodic techno sound. How do you balance emotional depth with dancefloor energy in your productions?
You’ll always find stark contrasts in my music—between love and coldness, light and dark, joy and sorrow. One side can never exist without the other, and that’s exactly what reflects in my music.
WWD: Your next single, ‘Fuck You Two’ featuring Haexxa, touches on raw emotions like betrayal. What was the creative process behind this track, and how did you approach capturing such intense feelings in the music?
The creative process began with the pain inside me. I lost two loved ones at once, and I had to process that first to find peace. That was the only way for me to let go, to forgive, and that’s exactly what you can feel in this track.
WWD: Your collaboration with Haexxa seems to be a recurring theme in your music. What is it about working with her that brings out the best in your production, and how does your creative synergy work in the studio?
One of us comes into the studio with a certain feeling, and depending on who it is, I write the music, or Haexxa writes the lyrics. With her, I’ve found a symbiosis and a person with whom I can share my emotions one-to-one. That’s rare, and I’ve never experienced anything like it before. A kind of energy is unleashed in the studio that is like an avalanche, hard to stop. She also has an incredible stage presence, which helps catapult an album from the studio straight to the stage.
WWD: As the head of IAM MELODIC TECHNO and Supdub Records, you’ve been instrumental in shaping the melodic techno scene. How do you see the genre evolving, and what role do you hope to play in its future development?
I’ve called my music melodic techno since before the genre even existed. My music has nothing to do with what’s now labeled as that genre. Years ago, deep house evolved into melodic techno/house. In my music, you’ll truly find techno in combination with melody. I have no intention of influencing any genre; I just produce the music that I feel is right for me.
WWD: You’ve performed at some legendary venues, like Berghain, and are set to headline major festivals like Parookaville and Airbeat One. How do you approach crafting your live sets, and what can audiences expect from your upcoming performances?
It’s a journey. My sets always start off emotionally melodic, and in the peak time, I go wild with the crowd through techno, only to end my set by embracing them with melodies and sending them home with love.
WWD: Beyond music, you’ve also launched a fashion brand, Ueberzieher, which allows your fans to connect with your creative vision in a different way. What inspired you to venture into fashion, and how does it tie into your musical identity?
I live my music and identify with it 100%. I AM Melodic Techno expresses exactly that feeling, and those who resonate with me can carry that feeling out into the world with me.
WWD: Having started your career as one half of the DJ duo Heinrichs & Hirtenfellner, how has your journey as a solo artist shaped your approach to production and live performances?
I’m no longer just 50% of my music. Everything I produce and feel, I no longer have to share or dilute with someone else. Now, I’m 100% me.
WWD: Your music blends raw emotion with powerful techno beats, which resonates with a global audience. How do you stay inspired and continue to push the boundaries of your sound?
I’m happy when others feel my music with me, and when it reaches beyond the borders of Germany. But there was never a master plan to be musically successful. I’m incredibly grateful that my music has found its way into your hearts.
WWD: With ‘I AM YOU’ being your 11th album, you’ve achieved a lot in your career. What motivates you to keep creating, and what are some personal or artistic goals you still hope to achieve in the future?
‘I AM YOU’ simply means that we always reflect ourselves in the other, that we are all the same and all feel the same.
WWD: Thanks for the chat, Alfred!
‘Regenbogenbrücke (Let Them Go) is available here