French DJ Hugel, known for his work in house and electronic music, has been making waves with the release of his debut album, “Twenty One.” Launched in June, the album serves as a celebratory nod to the 21 years he has dedicated to DJing, originally starting in his hometown of Marseille. His journey through various stages of the music industry has shaped not only his craft but also his desire to connect with listeners in a meaningful way.
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The album has made an impressive debut, landing at the top of Spotify’s Global Top Albums chart shortly after its release. Its success can be attributed to a mix of collaborations with prominent artists, including Snoop Dogg, Big Sean, French Montana, David Guetta, Ultra Naté, Scott Storch, and Tokischa. Diverse musical influences permeate the album, showcasing genres ranging from Afro house and Latin house to hip-hop, R&B, and dance.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Hugel shared insights on the creative process behind “Twenty One.” He recalled the initial uncertainty he faced when attempting to create a full-length album. “I had no idea where to start,” he admitted, expressing his eagerness to develop a deeper connection with his audience. Following discussions with his management, he began booking sessions with various artists across several locations, including Los Angeles, Dubai, Bali, and Australia.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Movin’ to the Sun,” which Hugel describes as a calculated risk involving the use of artificial intelligence in music production. He recognises that this technology elicits mixed reactions within the industry, but he sees the experimentation as vital to moving forward as an artist. He noted the single’s positive reception and expressed pride in his role as one of the first international DJs to employ AI creatively in his work.
A defining highlight of his career came when Hugel received a direct message from Snoop Dogg expressing admiration for his music and suggesting a collaboration. Surprised but thrilled, Hugel shared, “I was like, ‘What the f—?’” The opportunity led to a personal meeting where Snoop not only visited Hugel’s home but also engaged with his family and collaborated closely on their tracks. Plans for a second song together are already in the works, indicating that their creative partnership is far from over.
Reflecting on his early influences, Hugel recalls how listening to Daft Punk’s “Around the World” instilled a passion for music in him. Despite facing challenges in the early years—working various jobs from fast-food restaurants to truck driving—he made a decisive commitment to music at the age of 21. It was then that he began to earn from his passion, marking the start of his ascent in the industry.
The central theme of “Twenty One” revolves around Hugel’s personal journey and the hard work that has led him to this point. He hopes that listeners find inspiration in his story. “I’m for the people,” he declared, emphasising his aim to spread love and happiness through music. In an era where negativity often prevails, Hugel seeks to uplift others and promote positivity within the community.
As he looks to the future, fans can anticipate the deluxe version of “Twenty One,” which promises even more exciting collaborations and further exploration of his musical narrative. Hugel remains committed to his mission—grounded in human connection and artistic expression while not losing sight of the joy that music can bring to people’s lives.