Sonny Fodera Is ‘Frequently Flying’ to the Top of House Music

Whether you know it or not, Sonny Fodera is the next hot hand in global house music, joining the ranks of genre giants like Claude VonStroke, Green Velvet and Hot Since 82. The 30-year-old, London-based Aussie is set for a stellar 2016 with his debut album, Frequently Flying, set for release this week on Defected Records. To coincide with the release, Fodera just kicked off a 16-date North American tour at Escape: Psycho Circus 2016 this past weekend and will be making a stop at EDC Orlando this Saturday.

“I wanted to create something that wavers in and out of the usual late-night club scene, where you can enjoy the music anywhere,” says Fodera about the all-new, 14-track album. And he’s certainly delivered with the deep, soulful house on lead-off single “You & I,” featuring Janae.

Recently, we caught up with Fodera at home in London to chat about his new album, the unforgettable vibe of Beyond Wonderland this past March, his memorable Essential Mix debut, and more.

What’s the inspiration behind your new album, Frequently Flying?
Signing an album deal with Defected really inspired me to work with other musicians and explore vocals much more in my music. In turn, this helped me learn a lot more about myself and the music I’m making as an individual artist. I wanted to create something that wavers in and outside of the regular late-night club scene, where you can enjoy the music anywhere—from a party, to in your car, or on your headphones, or for just kicking back and everyday jamming! I feel like it’s between house and soul, something more universal.

How did you first hook up with Defected?
[Label boss] Simon Dunmore hit me up on Twitter when I dropped my track “Putting It Down” on Cajmere’s label, Cajual, [in 2012]. He loved the track and got me to remix a couple more on Defected. I went on to sign some original material to the label. From there, I moved to Europe, and they offered me a residency at Ushuaia in Ibiza. Now I’m in London, which is my home.

What’s been the reaction so far?
Amazing! It’s my favorite piece of work I have done so far. It’s moved me into a new area of production, where the support continues to grow. I appreciate all the love.

How would you define your sound?
It’s not something I can easily define, as my work is always evolving. I’ve gone from making jacking house to tech house to deep/bassline/soulful house. I’m working on a lot of grime remixes and edits, too. Being in a lot of different places all over the world really inspires me to try new things, and that keeps my work fresh and moving forward into new directions. I like that.

What was the experience like when you made your Essential Mix debut?
For the mix, I wanted to create a club vibe so it was like listening to one of my live sets. Giving that experience to the listeners was really important, because I wanted to reach out to all my fans and show them what it’s about for me—creating an experience.

Any memorable tour stories from this year?
Earlier this year, I played at Beyond Wonderland in San Bernardino, CA, and the vibe was unforgettable. The next day, we decided to drive to the Grand Canyon for sunrise—mind-blowing! From there, we drove to Las Vegas for one night and stayed at the Encore, where we spent the night playing roulette, and Skepta and his crew rocked up. Driving back to LAX the next day wasn’t easy, that’s for sure.

What’s next for you?
My new album, Frequently Flying, dropping on Defected, and my signature record label. Stay tuned!

Catch Sonny Fodera at EDC Orlando 2016 Saturday, November 5, at Tinker Field in Orlando, FL. For more information, visit the official website.

Frequently Flying from Sonny Fodera is available Friday, November 11, on Defected Records.

Jason Black is a word slinger by day and an HBO Westworld-er by night. Follow him on Twitter.

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