Ann Clue: Finding Joy and Authenticity in the Global Techno Scene

Ann Clue has rapidly established herself as a formidable force in the global techno landscape. With a unique aesthetic and an unwavering command of the dancefloor, she has spent the last three years traversing 35 countries, leaving an indelible mark on some of the world’s most prestigious festival stages. As she prepares for a pivotal year, the artist reflects on the balance between professional ambition and personal well-being.

Her upcoming single, Joy, set for release on the Fckng Serious label this May, serves as a testament to her philosophy. “Life inspired me to my new release ‘Joy’,” she explains. “I found out that life itself is about joy. Celebrate your big and little wins, grow every day, and nourish yourself. Life is just too short and fragile to not live a life of chasing joy.”

When it comes to her studio workflow, Ann Clue favors precision and efficiency. While she maintains a collection of hardware in her basement, she finds that modern software offers a level of clarity and speed that suits her creative process. “I love synths like Serum, Omnisphere, Fabfilter, and Audio Damage. I do have a lot of hardware, but I barely use it. I love the quality of the sound, but software is so precise. The workflow with software is much faster for me.”

The artist is particularly eager for her upcoming performance at the iconic TimeWarp Festival in Mannheim. For Ann, this gig is deeply personal. “My touring life 2023 begins with TimeWarp. I can hardly wait! On one hand, it’s a ‘home run’ for me because I live in Mannheim and TimeWarp happens to be just around the corner from my house. On the other hand, I’m playing there for the first time and it’s such a great honor. It will definitely be a big party.”

Addressing her role as a prominent female figure in the industry, Ann remains focused on authenticity rather than external pressures. She emphasizes that she does not feel burdened by the expectations often placed on women in electronic music. Instead, she draws inspiration from those who carve their own paths regardless of their origins. “Authenticity is one of the most amazing skills we can gather. Fight for what is right, go against the flow, and shake things up a little. I find people very inspiring who learn to reach their full potential; they change the world around them automatically for the better.”

Looking ahead, 2023 promises to be a transformative year. Ann Clue plans to tour more strategically, prioritizing quality over quantity to ensure she remains connected to her craft and her audience. With major appearances scheduled across North and South America, including stops at Tomorrowland and the Brooklyn Mirage, she is poised to continue her ascent as one of techno’s most vital voices.