Satellite Voices

Munich

DJ Hell

April 20, 2011

The multi-talented DJ and head of International Gigolo Records explores Munich, the arts, fashion and of course, new music

• Text by Christine Bierhals

Describing DJ Hell as "War-hell" and comparing his Gigolo Records with Warhol's Factory is getting close to the truth. Because alongside his boundless knowledge and passion for music, Hell is also interested and indeed committed in the fields of art, culture and fashion. Today, his International Gigolo Records are presented like an overall work of art, a sort of musical Bauhaus. And the multi-talent himself comes across as a think tank, continually active, packed full of motivation and always receptive for innovative, good ideas.

In his current Teufelswerk - his total overall work of art, Hell harnesses his musical knowledge and talent. "Teufelswerk represents the music in the best way: it's the work of the Devil," he says, "and it's the work of me, the work of Hell."

His musical career took off in the early 80s in the region around Munich but he soon relocated to the Bavarian capital. At the start of the 90s he moved to Berlin, spent a short time in New York and subsequently came back home. In 1996, parallel to his work as DJ, he founded his label International Deejay Gigolos, which today is domiciled in Berlin.

The diversity of the musical spectrum is immense. Indeed variety always was his philosophy. Free of any prejudicial shackles Hell presents eclecticism: Italo-disco, hip hop, industrial, acid house, electro and techno. There is nothing that Hell could not bring together in his Hell's Kitchen. Moreover, he also collaborates with personalities like P. Diddy and Bryan Ferry - ever more eager for new musical opportunities.

The collaboration does not stop at music. He also has fashion aspirations. He newly defines the look of a DJ by blending his fashion claim with music, stylishly and dashingly attired in Tom Ford or Martin Margiela instead of flashy shirts. He also wins awards today in the fashion field, is photographed and set in scene as an icon of style and, as DJ, he unites his flair for fashion with fitting musical accompaniment at fashion shows. This interest is currently showing face in fashion co-operations with eye wear and underwear collections by renowned but yet so diverse labels like Agent Provocateur, Chanel, Levis and Patrick Mohr.

Amidst all this international glory, jet set and his worldly aplomb, Hell regularly returns back to his roots - to Munich and its neighbourhood, to generate new energy and meet up with old friends - also those from his early club days. Just recently the Bavarian Gigolo Night for friends and acquaintances in Bob Beaman - a musical highlight - was just as important for Hell as a jaunt to one of Munich's natural local lakes - whose name should not be divulged here due to its secret tip distinction. Full of energy, loyal to himself and his roots, Switzerland was his next port of call. For a new and never-before-seen project. Hell hath no respite!