Benny Benassi on the magic of Ministry of Sound

Following on from our look ahead to Ministry Of Sound's 23rd Birthday (read all about that here), we grabbed five minutes with all conquering EDM hero Benny Benassi to find out what makes Ministry Of Sound so special, his take on the current state of EDM, and who would be on his ultimate party line up.

How does it feel to be part of Ministry of Sound’s 23rd Birthday? Does the club hold a special place in your heart?

I am honoured. Fifteen years ago the idea of playing at Ministry seemed like an impossible dream. Now I feel like part of the family and it’s amazing. The label and the club have always had a huge influence on me.

You’ve played there a number of times, what’s been your favourite MoS moment?

When I went to play at the club for the first time. I went through the offices and I saw all the record sleeves and compilations on the walls. I thought, hey this is where it all began, I was very happy and I hadn’t really understood what Ministry of Sound really meant before this.

You’re sound has enjoyed many mutations since you started out. How would you describe your sound now? And what can we expect from your set at Ministry Of Sound?

In terms of productions, as everyone knows, I work with my cousin Alle Benassi. I don’t know how to describe our sound! I leave that to you!

My sets are always only semi-prepared. I have a good idea of the tracks I am liking but the selection of tracks is always influenced by the vibe. It’s a musical journey. I know where I start but it’s the people there who play an important part in deciding where we’re all going.

You recently collaborated with Serj Tankian of System Of A Down fame. How did that come about? What’s been the reaction to the record?

We (Alle and I) were looking for singers and writers outside the usual styles of vocals you hear on electrohouse records. We thought Serj’s way of singing would be really interesting on an electronic record but we never imagined he’d want to do it.

We’re really grateful that he did want to collaborate and the result is amazing.  The reactions have been very strong. It seems to be something people are talking about. I just hope people like the music because that’s what it’s all about.

Can we expect any more collaborations?

Yes, I have a record with Moguai called “Gangsta” coming out in October (hear a clip of that above). It’s a club track and I really enjoyed working with Moguai who I’ve known and respected for some time.

How has your summer been? What have been some highlights?

A lot of shows! Highlights? Tomorrowland for sure. A back to back in Ibiza at Pacha with Steve Aoki where we ended up playing future house music. It felt right and was marvellous.

How do you rate the current EDM scene? Which producers/DJs really stand out to you?

There’s a lot of speculation about “what's coming next”. I think people feel that the classic formula of a “bit of melody + build to the drop + thump it out + start again” is a bit predictable and overexploited. Clearly house music is coming back and hey, I’m old enough for it all to feel very familiar!

I think Oliver Heldens has a lot to say musically but I’m not the only one to have noticed that! There is so much I like from Kiesza to Diplo, to be honest!

What do you think is the key to making it as a DJ? For any new aspiring DJs, what advice would you give them?

Be true to the music you like!

And finally, hypothetical question... You have the power to curate your perfect party. You can play alongside any DJ past or present. Where would you have it, and who would join you? 

In my garden at home. A back to back with all the DJs I’ve met over the years from Morillo to Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox, with Nervo, Tiesto, Calvin, David Guetta etc! Everyone, without exception, who has contributed to making this world of electronic music so great.

We look forward to the invite. 

Catch Benny Benassi at Ministry Of Sound's 23rd Birthday Party this Friday. Get your tickets here.

Tickets are no longer available for this event