Andreyboy & SHAZZE [Interview]

ANDREWBOY X SHAZZE (Higher State Project)

Hi Guys, thanks for talking to us today. Now that we’ve started the new year, how was 2024 for you?

Andrewboy: First of all, thank you for this interview. It truly means a lot to me because I’ve always admired your work. 2024 was an incredible year for me. I surpassed 320 million streams on Spotify, which is a milestone I’m very proud of. I had nearly 130 performances worldwide, and I’m deeply grateful for every opportunity. I’d like to thank all my friends and promoters who believed in me and invited me to perform in places like Australia, Thailand, Canada, and across five continents. In November, I launched my record label, Higher State, with SHAZZE, and it has had an amazing start. Our releases reached Top 5, Top G, and Top 13 on Beatport’s Hype Melodic House & Techno chart, and many other Top lists featured our tracks. These results reassure us that we’re on the right track. We also established the Higher State Studio, where we support beginner and advanced DJs and producers. Thanks to the internet, we can teach anyone globally, and the number of students is growing daily. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their successes—almost every track created in the studio has made it into Beatport’s Top 100 list. Whether it’s ghost production or a beginner’s project we helped finish, the results speak for themselves. So much happened in 2024, but these are the highlights that come to mind for now.

SHAZZE: Thanks a ton for giving us this platform to share our story.2024 has been an incredible year—filled with positivity, progress, and some major milestones checked off my bucket list, from the record labels I’ve released on to the amazing gigs I’ve played. It’s a true testament to the power of hard work, determination, and staying fully dedicated to your goals—proving that anything is possible when you give it your all!

Let’s look back on the year, what gig of yours has stood out the most and why?

Andrewboy: Australia Mindset Party. First of all, the journey itself—44 hours of travel—will always be an unforgettable memory. It was an incredible experience to play music surrounded by skyscrapers. What made it even more special was seeing people from diverse nationalities— Russians, Ukrainians, Iraqis—dancing together. Even though their governments might be at odds, here, everyone was a friend. Music brought us together, and in that moment, only music, friendship, and love existed. This is what life should be about! Another unforgettable event was the Essence Party in Canada, where I made many new friends. And I can’t forget the Secret Club in Dubai. The club’s atmosphere left me speechless—it was an extraordinary fusion of erotica and the Japanese Samurai era. From a clubbing perspective, this one stands out as my number one. As I mentioned earlier, I had a lot of shows last year, but these are the ones that left the strongest impressions on me.

SHAZZE: 2024 has been massive. I got to play in a cruise party under the night skies of Istanbul bridge. The performance was an absolute blast—not only because of the lively and passionate crowd but also thanks to the iconic venue. The fusion of such a remarkable setting with the audience's incredible energy made it a truly unforgettable moment.

Now let’s look at tracks, what is a track or tracks which have come out last year that has impressed you the most and why?

Andrewboy: So much great music came out last year, but instead of tracks, I’d like to highlight the producers who inspire me: Th:en, Khainz, Goom Gum, Massano.

SHAZZE: I echo what Andrew has mentioned. It’s very hard to pick a track however I love what the young talented SCRIPT has been throwing out.

What is a song/track you’ve never stopped listening to since childhood? And why has it stuck with you this long?

Andrewboy: I often revisit the works of Kraftwerk and Jean-Michel Jarre, which were massive inspirations for me when I started my musical journey. These artists laid the foundation for electronic music, and their influence continues to guide me.

SHAZZE: Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody is a true masterpiece that I’ve been listening to since childhood. Its unique blend of opera and rock, the unconventional song structure, and Freddie Mercury’s legendary vocals make it an unforgettable track that stands the test of time. It’s one of those songs that never loses its magic.

For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you?

Andrewboy: Melodies have always had a significant impact on me, and during the pandemic, I even took piano lessons. This helped me refine my skills and significantly contributed to the success of my tracks. I watch hundreds of tutorials every year to improve myself and learn new tricks. When I create music, I always have a vision in mind that I aim to bring to life. Sometimes, I use reference tracks to align with current music trends.

SHAZZE: Totally, while originality is essential for every artist to be recognized for their work, I believe that when we start producing, we naturally draw inspiration from others. Finding a unique sound is a journey that takes time, but ultimately, staying true to our creativity and following both our heart and mind is what leads to true originality.

Where did you guys grow up and how did growing up in your respective countries affect your music taste and direction into becoming a DJ and producer?

Andrewboy: I was born in Budapest, and by the time I was 10, I was already recording music on my mom’s cassette player. By the age of 13, I was DJing for G00 people at a local club. I started with Italo Disco and Funky, but as music styles evolved, I adapted as well. Then, the rave era swept me off my feet, and from that point on, I dedicated myself entirely to electronic music. When I was 10, my sole focus was to entertain the crowd and make them happy. That was all that mattered to me. One day, I went to a famous club and saw a DJ playing on vinyl turntables for the first time. I was stunned—I had never seen anything like it before. With no internet and being just a kid, it felt like magic. I soon befriended some of Hungary’s most renowned DJs, who gave me the chance to learn mixing and scratching on vinyl. A few years later, I became a multi-time DJ champion.

SHAZZE: UK is known for its house music so growing up here had a big influence on me as an electronic music dj. This is also the place where I learned a lot during my journey in LSA and met a lot of great and inspiring people along the way. It is here in the UK where I managed to go for a lot of gigs and I networked with a lot of industry pros.

What is a track that reminds you of your early days DJing and what event/club do you associate with it?

Andrewboy: One of my earliest memories is playing slow songs where people would cuddle and kiss—these moments were so anticipated, and they came every 30 minutes. Then, when I first heard a track by The Prodigy, I knew this was my style. I remember visiting a famous club in the countryside, where I heard Sasha and Digweed for the first time. I’ll never forget the moment I heard Satoshi Tomiie’s Love in Traffic. I went wild with the crowd. That’s why I decided to create a 2025 rework of this track with my friend this year. It’s already been sent to several big-name producers, who say the crowd absolutely loves it during shows. The track will be released under the title: Satoshi Tomiie feat Kelli Ali – Love in Traffic (Andrewboy, SHAZZE 2025 Rework) The exciting news is that it will be available for free download via Progressive Astronaut in February. We’re so grateful for this platform!

SHAZZE: This is a tough one, but let’s say that they can be the ones below, as they remain deep in my memory Born Slippy – Underworld

You both have some years of production experience so looking back on those earlier years can you pinpoint pivotal moments to the success you’ve achieved today? Maybe a gig or two, or a release which really helped your propel career?

Andrewboy: 25 years ago, I released my first album, which was a huge success. Since then, I’ve created six more official albums. I’ve received the most prestigious award a Hungarian musician can earn: the Hungarian Music Grammy, as well as three gold records. In just a few years, I became one of the most successful DJs in Hungary. These are beautiful memories, and it was heartwarming to relive them during this conversation.

You both have some years of production experience so looking back on those earlier years can you pinpoint pivotal moments to the success you’ve achieved today? Maybe a gig or two, or a release which really helped your propel career?

SHAZZE: One of the turning points was performing in EGG & ministry Of Sound London in my early days this for sure had a huge impact  on my career, added to that releasing on some bigger labels such as Einmusika & Perspectives digital also opened a lot of doors and led to some top collaborations.

How did you guys initially meet and eventually get to a point where you started collaborating on music together?

Andrewboy: I think I was the one who reached out to SHAZZE first. It quickly became clear that he’s a reliable guy. We shared the same goal: to build a successful international career. If I remember correctly, within a few weeks, we had already finished our first track together. Since then, we’ve released many tracks that have brought us great success. Today, we even have a label together, and we’re currently planning an international Higher State showcase tour.

SHAZZE: I believe Andrew was the one who first reached out to me. I was humbled at the same time excited for this journey together. We both shared the same vision—building a successful international career. If I remember correctly, within just a few weeks, we had already completed our first track together. Since then, we’ve released multiple tracks that have brought us amazing success. Now, we even run a label together and are in the process of planning an international Higher State showcase tour!

You guys have a new remix of ‘Dream’ by Velvet Mode, Unseen and Miketase which is out now via your HIGHER STATE imprint. Tell us a bit about the remix and what sort of vibe you were going for on it.

Andrewboy: When I received the original version from the guys, I listened to it several times. The melodies alternate from the beginning to the end of the track. Listening to it with headphones feels like an incredible spiritual journey. That’s why we decided to create a remix for it. This EP is a bit different from the usual—a true work of art. We hope fans will love it and that it will bring them joy and memorable experiences. I’d make it mandatory for anyone listening to the track to turn off the outside world, close their eyes, and relax until the end of the song, immersing themselves in the melodies. The track has such a powerful effect when listened to this way!

SHAZZE: When the lads sent us the original version, I found myself replaying it over and over. The way the melodies evolve throughout the track makes it feel like a deep, immersive journey—especially when experienced through headphones. That’s what inspired us to create a remix. This EP stands out from the usual; it’s truly a piece of art. We hope listeners connect with it, creating special moments and lasting memories. If I could, I’d insist that everyone listening disconnect from the outside world, close their eyes, and fully absorb the melodies. The track’s impact is truly next-level when experienced this way!

How much play has the remix gotten in your sets and to what reaction? And who else has been playing it so far?

Andrewboy: For now, I’ve included the track in my new artist album, Manta, where it fits perfectly. The track is still fresh, and the promo has just been sent out to big names, so we’re eagerly awaiting their reactions.

SHAZZE: The track is quiet new, but I have been playing it in my recent sets and the reaction is quiet good. Like Andrew mentions the promo has just been sent out to big names, so we’re eagerly awaiting for their feedback.

Let our readers inside your studio for a moment, what is your current setup and what studio tools are featured heavily in your recent productions and more specifically on your ‘Dream’ remix?

Andrewboy: These are my best friends in the studio: Ableton, Moog, Serum, and Arturia.

SHAZZE: My setup is quite basic and not very sophisticated, I use Ableton Live lite and audio interface Focusrite scarlet 2i2 , a pair of KRK's as studio monitors .I mostly use ableton stock plugins and I also enjoy creating sounds on VSTs like u-He Diva, Serum, SonicCharge Synplant and AAS Chromaphone 2. I use Omnisphere a lot.I do have plans to learn and explore physical gear in the future but for now I’m comfortable working digitally. I believe working with real drum machines and synths gives the production a more humane kind of feel.

A successful partnership is generally based around balance and compromise; how do you manage these things within your production dynamic?

Andrewboy:  Fortunately, we work very well together! Our musical style and professional outlook align perfectly—we believe in building good relationships, helping others, creating quality music, and contributing value to the world. SHAZZE is a great person and friend. I’m happy we found each other and are building our careers together.

SHAZZE: Luckily, we make a great team! Our musical vision and professional mindset are completely in sync—we prioritize strong connections, supporting others, producing quality music, and making a meaningful impact. Andrewboy is not only a talented veteran in the field  but also a lovely human to start with and a good friend,And I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to create and grow together.

Let’s talk a bit more about your label HIGHER STATE which has been running since Q4 of last year. What led you to start the label together initially? And had you been producing together before this?

Andrewboy:  It all started with a friendly conversation. A few months later, our first track was ready. SHAZZE is such a good person that we quickly became friends. So, I asked him to join my new label, Higher State, as a partner. It was a great decision because together, we’ve achieved even greater success!

SHAZZE: It all began with a casual conversation, and just a few months later, our first track was finished. Andrewboy’s great friendly personality made it easy for us to become friends, and soon after, I was offered by  him to join our new label, Higher State, as a partner. It turned out to be one of the best decisions, as our collaboration has taken things to an even higher level!

Now that you’re label owners, how do you decide which tracks to release on Higher State and which to pitch to other labels?

Andrewboy:  It’s a tough process. Every producer dreams of releasing with the world’s top labels, which can greatly boost their future career. That’s why I spend days thinking about whether to send a track to one of my top 10 favorite labels or release it on our own label, which also builds our brand—especially since all our releases so far have been Beatport Top releases. I’ve created a strategy to follow, so we’ll have opportunities to release with big labels while also strengthening our own. Our label’s promo list is excellent, ensuring that all our releases reach the big- name producers who matter to us and our career development. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter whether a track is released on a big label or ours; what matters most is that the track is successful and loved by people worldwide.

SHAZZE: It’s always a challenging decision. Every producer dreams of releasing on top-tier labels, as it can significantly impact their career. That’s why I carefully consider whether to send a track to one of my top 5 favorite labels or release it on our own imprint, which helps strengthen our brand—especially since all our releases so far have charted on Beatport. I’ve developed a strategy that balances both goals, allowing us to collaborate with major labels while also growing our own platform. Our label’s promo list is strong, ensuring our music reaches influential producers who align with our vision. In the end, what truly matters isn’t just where the track is released, but that it resonates with listeners worldwide and stands the test of time.

What advice do you have for artists hoping to get signed to ‘HIGHER STATE’?

Andrewboy:  First, they should check out the kind of music we’ve released so far. We welcome all demos, but we also have a clear vision of the musical direction we want to take. We’re mainly looking for Melodic Techno and Indie Dance tracks.

SHAZZE: Before submitting, it's important to explore the music we’ve released so far. While we’re open to all demos, we have a defined vision for our sound and are primarily looking for Melodic Techno and Indie Dance tracks.

Shifting to DJing for a moment, both of you have played several significant gigs of late so please tell us your approach to programming
a set with the dancefloor in mind.

Andrewboy: There’s no pre-written script. Within a few tracks, I can decide what the crowd would dance to that day— whether it’s Melodic Techno, Indie Dance, or Peak Time Techno. These are the genres I feel most confident in. But I also stay updated on Progressive House and Afro House, as they’re perfect for pool parties.

SHAZZE: Every set is a spontaneous journey— Within a few tracks, I can gauge the crowd’s energy and decide whether to take them on a ride through Melodic Techno or progressive house. I love telling a story in my set.I also keep a few playlists prepared, allowing me to switch things up and adapt to the vibe in the moment.

With Andrewboy being a DJ for such a long time, I’m curious how your approach to the craft changed over the years? And do the challenges you have today differ from say 20 years ago?

Andrewboy: My attitude hasn’t changed at all. I’ve always dreamed of making music, and now I’m living that dream. Of course, I have new goals, like performing at all the major festivals within the next 1-2 years, and I’ll do everything to achieve that. So, while my attitude hasn’t changed, technology certainly has. I started with a cassette player, then vinyl records, and now all you need is a USB stick or laptop. Nowadays, I can teach anyone to mix in 2-4 hours, but learning to mix on vinyl turntables used to take months or years. Back then, there weren’t as many DJs as there are now. Today, being a DJ is trendy. Mixing is easy thanks to technology—you just need a well-crafted social media presence and good content. In the short term, that might work, but if someone is in it just for fame or money, they’ll eventually disappear. You need to grow and learn daily to keep up with the fast changes, and only those who love music can do that. For me, music isn’t about fame or success—it’s about creating something truly unique and valuable. It’s not just an activity; it’s a process that requires patience and passion. My real goal is to express myself and enjoy every moment. For me, music is freedom, expression, and life.

What is it about DJing, compared to producing your own music, that makes it interesting for you?

Andrewboy: I love performing live in front of an audience. It’s always been my motivation to entertain people at parties—giving them experiences through my music that they’ll remember for weeks, months, or even years.

SHAZZE: Performing live in front of an audience is something I truly cherish. It’s been my driving force to create unforgettable moments at parties, sharing experiences through my music that people can leave with some great memories

Can you tell me a bit about how your work as a DJ has influenced your view of music, your way of listening to tracks and perhaps also, your work as a producer?

Andrewboy: I spend hours every day selecting tracks, listening to mixes, and following you guys for years. I keep an eye on current music trends, which inspire innovation and learning. That’s why my music evolves year by year; I embrace new influences, and they show in my work.

SHAZZE: Being a producer has definitely shaped my skills as a DJ. It teaches you how tracks are constructed, helps you understand the dynamics of energy, and gives you a better sense of when to transition between songs. While you can be a good DJ without production skills, I believe that producing music takes your DJing to a whole new level and allows you to connect with the music in a deeper, more intuitive way.

What are your current Top 5 tracks featured in your sets?

Andrewboy: Right now, the newest ones that haven’t been released yet. Honestly, I’m very optimistic about their success. These tracks are the ones I’ve shared a few times on my Andrewboymuzik Instagram. They’ll be released in the first half of the year, with some on our own label: Vortex, We Are Free, Luminous, Mantra.

SHAZZE: 

TH;EN - Run 

SCRIPT (ofc) - Momentum 

Moonphazes, Luccas Deo - Raag 

Starsailor - Four to the floor (Delta Vaults remix)

Ruback, Blake Light - BACKSEAT

If you could set up an event with a line-up of five artists of your choice, who would you book and what set times would you ascribe to the artists? (Do not include yourself)

SHAZZE:

RIKO & GUGGA (Open)

TH:EN (Open)

Ruback (Main)

MASSANO (Main)

SCRIPT (Close)

If you are not DJing, producing or socializing at clubs, where do we find you? And doing what?

Andrewboy: I don’t really have one. Most of my time is spent in these places. But I enjoy working out daily, visiting great restaurants, and traveling to beautiful places worldwide. Thankfully, my music now takes me around the world. Instead of a favorite city, I’d say my dream festivals to perform at are Zamna, Tomorrowland, and Burning Man.

If you were not a DJ/Producer what do you think you’d be doing with your life? 

Andrewboy: If I weren’t a DJ, I might have become a graphic designer. I have a talent for it, but unfortunately, I don’t have the time to develop it further. Maybe a few years from now, I’ll have more time for this passion.

SHAZZE: If I weren’t a DJ/Producer,for sure I would be continuing  working as a sales manager in a the cyber security world. Since I love solving peoples problem and giving them a solution this is in my DNA.

What’s something people do not know about you?

Andrewboy: Thanks to the interview, people now know a lot about me. But luckily, I still have a few secrets.

SHAZZE: There would be a lot of things I guess, but I would say maybe people don't know that besides being an artist/producer I'm also a professional tabel tennis player constantly taking part in the ranking tournaments.

What TV series have you been enjoying recently and what are some of your all time favourites?

Andrewboy: Right now, I’m watching the last episodes of Yellowstone, which I loved. I enjoy some series, but I tend to prioritize sound design tutorials on YouTube.

SHAZZE: Honestly, it’s been a while since I last watched a TV series. I’ve been fully immersed in learning new production techniques, and a lot of my time goes into tutoring students. But if I had to pick an all-time favorite, it would definitely be Friends—no matter how many times I watch it, it never gets old!

Apart from music, what makes you happiest?

Andrewboy: I’m happiest when I can learn something new daily that makes my music better and more beautiful. I spend 10 hours a day in the studio, and during that time, the world seems to stand still. Besides that, sports, reading, and traveling make me happy.

SHAZZE: Spending time with my family & friends, Also, I run an Dj Academy called (Warsaw Sound Academy)  so I am heavily focused on it and being creative all the time.

What can we look forward to from you in 2025? Any releases or gigs you are looking forward to?

Andrewboy: Just today, we received emails inviting us to perform in London, Berlin, and Slovakia—all in one day! Toronto, Australia, Thailand, Dubai, India, Amsterdam, and Egypt are also on the list. Plus, we’re planning the Higher State label tour, so I’m really excited about this year!

SHAZZE: There's a lot of new music coming in 2025, Toronto, Australia, Thailand, Dubai, India, Amsterdam, and Egypt are also on the list.Plus, we’re planning the Higher State label tour, so I’m really looking forward to it.

'Dream' is available now via HIGHER STATE: https://tinyurl.com/3df73533