intelligend 30% off life time subscription: Use "WILL" at checkout https://go.intellijend.com/will

This episode was filmed and sponsored by THE LINE LA, Will’s favourite place to stay in LA - for 20% off your stay use code WILLCLARKE at checkout on their official website

Claude VonStroke joins me for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had on this podcast. Ive wanted to have this conversation for a long time so lock in people its a good one. We talk about building Dirtybird from nothing, turning it into one of the most influential house labels in the world, and why he eventually decided to sell it. Claude opens up about burnout, identity, losing connection with the magic, and what it really feels like when the thing you built becomes bigger than you.

We dive into:

• The early Dirtybird days and how it became a movement

• How tech house took over America

• Why the middle class of DJs is disappearing

• The stress of running festivals and events

• The reality behind ticket sales and the business of dance music

• Saying no to Coachella style loss leader deals

• Why he refuses to chase hits

• Starting again with a new label

• Finding joy in music again

This is a conversation about evolution, ego, independence, and what success actually costs.

If you are a DJ, producer, creative entrepreneur, or someone building something from the ground up, this episode will resonate.

Subscribe for weekly conversations with artists, founders, and the people shaping electronic music culture.

Who is Claude VonStroke: Claude VonStroke is a house producer, festival organizer, and seasoned A&R. Founded Dirtybird Records in 2004 and sold it in 2022. Now the owner of Wrong Number Records.

⏲ Follow Will Clarke ⏱

https://willclarke.komi.io/

https://djwillclarke.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OmOdgwIzub8DYPxQYbbbi?si=hEx8GCJAR3mhhhWd_iSuew

https://www.instagram.com/djwillclarke

https://www.facebook.com/willclarkedj

https://twitter.com/djwillclarke

https://www.tiktok.com/@djwillclarke

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Songstats: For 10% off lifetime subscription use the code word "WILLCLARKE" or follow the link https://songstats.com/app?ref=WILLCLARKE

Who is Layton Giordani: Layton Giordani stands firmly as one of the most popular tastemakers of techno’s new school, with his pioneering musical vision serving as a contemporary voice for the younger generation. Spending years acquiring knowledge from musical greats, the 28 year old possesses a wealth of experience far beyond his years and has now undeniably earned his rank in the upper echelon of techno.

Podcast Overview: In this episode Layton opens up about taking back control of his career, leaving the comfort of Drumcode, changing management, launching his own record label, and building serious momentum in America.

We talk about:

1) Taking the driver’s seat in your career

2) The reality of stepping away from a label family

3) Meeting John Summit and witnessing the US scene explode

4) Starting a label and partnering with Armada

5) The year long process of clearing Gorillaz Dare

6) Production culture versus pure music

7) Ego, fame, money, and whether success actually brings happiness

This is a real conversation about growth, ambition, identity, and what happens when you finally achieve the things you once dreamed about.

If you are a DJ, producer, creative, or entrepreneur trying to level up, this episode will hit.

Subscribe for weekly conversations with the most interesting minds in electronic music.

⏲ Follow Will Clarke ⏱

https://willclarke.komi.io/

https://djwillclarke.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OmOdgwIzub8DYPxQYbbbi?si=hEx8GCJAR3mhhhWd_iSuew

https://www.instagram.com/djwillclarke

https://www.facebook.com/willclarkedj

https://twitter.com/djwillclarke

https://www.tiktok.com/@djwillclarke

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Use code "WILLCLARKE20" to gain 20% off pointblank LA or Online courses (excluding only degree programmes), or follow the link https://bit.ly/willclarkepb

Sign up for the latest podcast info - https://laylo.com/willclarke/uqFWnJKa

Podcast Overview: In this conversation, Will Clarke sits down with Cinthie to talk about her journey through Berlin’s club scene, her deep connection to record store culture, and why community still matters in dance music. She reflects on growing up in Germany, watching Berlin evolve, and what makes the city’s nightlife feel different from anywhere else. Lastly, she shares why supporting other people’s music and staying true to her values has kept her grounded in an increasingly commerical industry.

Who is Cinthie: German producer, DJ, label and record store owner Cinthie is one of the most sought-after artists in contemporary electronic music, often referred to as the Berlin Queen of House after a decade of nonstop global touring. Her deep knowledge of house music comes from a vinyl collection built since 1995, with DJ sets that connect the swing of New York, the rawness of Chicago, and the energy of Berlin through stripped-back, emotive grooves. In the studio, she has spent over 20 years crafting timeless house music on labels like Heist, Aus Music, and her own 803 Crystal Grooves, alongside releases such as her debut album Skylines City Lights and her standout DJ-Kicks mix. Beyond the booth, Cinthie continues to push boundaries with live shows at events like Sonar and Mutek while running Elevate.Berlin, a handpicked record store that reflects her commitment to authenticity, community, and proper house music.

⏲ Follow Will Clarke ⏱

https://djwillclarke.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OmOdgwIzub8DYPxQYbbbi?si=hEx8GCJAR3mhhhWd_iSuew

https://www.instagram.com/djwillclarke

https://www.facebook.com/willclarkedj

https://twitter.com/djwillclarke

https://www.tiktok.com/@djwillclarke

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.