Le Youth doesn't play New York City too often, but when he does the Cali-based artist likes to make sure that the performance is a special one. Come Friday (April 27), the dance musician will turn back the hands of time to celebrate the glory of '90s house tunes with a special set at Output in Brooklyn.
"There's this pressure to make it a memorable set. This will be memorable," he told iHeartRadio via e-mail. "The kind of set has been done before, but my take on classic house is a bit different. I prefer to lean to the poppier side of house music. This one's about the dance floor, but it's also about what defines 90s classic house for me. Expect some singalongs."
Among his favorite songs from that era? He cited Robin S.'s "Show Me Love," Rhythim Is Rhythim's "Strings Of Life" and Nightcrawlers' "Push The Feeling On (Mk Dub)" as his trifecta of '90s house gold.
His forthcoming show is just one of the many ventures he has on his plate after his rollercoaster ride of 2017, which saw him sign with a major label and release "Clap Your Hands," an infectious collab with singer Ava Max. Personal and professional paths were also crossed when his dog, Owen, passed away the same week that he was working on the artwork for the track. "It was incredibly difficult for me. If you filter the photo with very high contrast, the words 'For Owen' appear," he said, revealing the secret tribute he incorporated into the cover art. "Only a few people know. It was my nod to him and a thank you I suppose. He's been in my life for nearly every song I've written."
When it comes to his partnership with Parametric and Atlantic Records, the dance artist couldn't be happier with the team of people he has behind him. "It's reaffirming to know that such strong people in the music world believe in what I'm doing and want to put out my records. I certainly don't take that for granted," he said of the venture, which will back his forthcoming single dropping in early summer. "The people that make up the team behind my project are cherished. I'm nothing without them. Being signed to a major record label creates a huge desire to deliver. I want my records to connect in a big way- that's always been a motivator for me. I love the idea that I can create music that inspires me, challenges the listener, yet connects with the world... with a four on the floor drum beat, no less."
To prep for Friday night's set, Le Youth has teamed up with Magnetic Mag to unveil a special hour-long classic house mix as a preview to his forthcoming performance. Take a listen to the mix below!
Photo: Collin Stark for Lefair Mag (@collinstark)