Gianni Romano, a maestro in the electronic music arena, is celebrated for his seamless blend of innovation and tradition. With roots deeply embedded in Italy’s vibrant club scene, Romano’s journey has been marked by transformation and evolution. From the foundational days with Daddy’s Groove to the creation of his solo identity in MHE, his career trajectory reflects a deep commitment to musical exploration. Romano’s ventures into label ownership and the inception of Party Switch illustrate his broader vision for the electronic music industry.
In this interview we dive into the essence of Romano’s craft, shedding light on his creative process, inspirations, and aspirations within the ever-changing electronic landscape.
How has 2024 been for you so far?
Super good. I spent most of the time in my studio to finish the new tracks which will be out soon .
First of all, we want to get to know you “from the beginning”. How did your history with music begin?
Music has always been part of my life. I remember when I was 15 and my Dad gave me my first
radio-cassette player that I used to make playlists for friends’ birthdays. I got into DJing at an
after-party in Naples with my promoter friends, and after that I got my first decks and vinyl.
In fact, I ended up opening a record store in Naples and Ibiza back then, which I later sold.
How has your style evolved from your days with Daddy’s Groove to your current solo project, and what influenced these changes?
The Switch concept started in 2014, after I left Daddy’s Groove to start my new journey
as a solo artist, under the name Gianni Romano. I felt inspired after having travelled
the world playing, and found some new creativity I wanted to explore. I chose the word
“Switch” because it emphasizes the change in my career, both musically and as a producer/
DJ. Every Friday I would host a party in Naples promoted under this name, it quickly became
popular and I shared the decks with artists like Solomun, Claptone, Hosh, Black Coffee
and Blond:ish. From there I started my label, Switch Lab, which is now listed among the most successful Afro House labels in the world.
Being able to get in tune with the dancefloor is the most important thing for a DJ to do
You’ve mentioned music’s power to move souls in previous interviews. How do you capture and convey emotion in your productions?
My creative process is never the same, I love experimenting and trying new things when in the studio. I love to exchange ideas and get in touch with other musicians, singers or producer friends like Emanuele Esposito, Aüra and Robin M – who have become my music family and often share the decks with me. I believe sharing always leads to a positive evolution in music.
How do you balance personal expression with the expectations of your audience in your music?
By trying to do what I like and what makes me feel happy, I believe that only in this way can I reach your audience by making them experience your real emotions.
Having played at major festivals like Tomorrowland, what do you find most rewarding about live performances?
I believe that being able to get in tune with the dancefloor is the most important thing for a DJ to do, and the most rewarding is seeing people get excited dancing and singing one of your songs.
Can you describe a particularly memorable moment during a DJ set where you felt a strong connection with your audience?
This summer at the Opening Party Switch at Blue Marlin Ibiza. It was magical and there were many of my friends who came to be part of this which was a life long dream of mine. The first record I played was a track of mine that I tried and which will be released this year, the reaction was incredible.
Looking back at your career so far, is there anything you would have done differently?
No, I would do everything the same way again
What is the best advice you ever received as an artist?
I asked one of my best friends, today one of the greatest DJs and producers in the world, how can you be so decisive in your artistic choices and he answered: Because I believe that an artist’s career is based on the no he says. It really resonated with me and have tried to followed this philosophy since.
What should we be keeping an eye out from you in the coming months?
I got exciting new releases coming on my label Switch Lab, and also my own new releases which will come on ULU.
Anything else you’d like to tell us…?
Yes. Hope to see you guys at my party Switch around the world soon .
