teve ngello

As one of the most respected artists in today’s dance music industry, expectations are always high for Steve Angello’s releases and the moves of his label, SIZE Records. Launched in 2003 with his own ‘Simplicity’ EP, the label has seen a constant increase in international recognition. Between 2008 and 2014, following the massive worldwide success of Swedish House Mafia, SIZE became one of the most important labels in electronic dance music. With a Size XX vinyl box set containing a collection of all the releases on the label coming up, the Swedish mastermind is consistently exceeding expectations. As he celebrates 20 years of his iconic label with a SIZE XX show at Tomorrowland, there’s more than plenty to talk about.

Steve, you have a Size XX compilation album coming up, what’s the idea behind it?

“I’m obsessed with physical media, from posters and merchandise to vinyl. I’ve always cherished the value of something you can touch and feel, so the idea was to create an artefact that I can look back at in 20 years and feel like I’ve been part of a specific time. I’m very passionate about design and storytelling, and this XX vinyl box set is a testament to that.”

“I’m always happy to see artists that are pushing the boundaries and keep evolving, the ones that push the genre forward and help it become bigger. There’s Fred again.., Four Tet, Peggy Gou and Swedish House Mafia (laughs). All artists pushing forward!”

How does it feel to divide your energy between your solo work and Swedish House Mafia? How do you find the balance?

“It’s a very natural process, actually. When I create music I immediately know whether it's for SHM or for my solo work. It comes very organically, working together, whether it’s shows, show visuals, merchandise, music, music videos, marketing or anything else creative, we’re always doing it together. We find a balance in creating rather than separating.” festival! I read an article in Mixmag about this crazy Belgian festival, so I immediately told my agent that I wanted to play. I remember that even back then I was blown away by what they had built. Fast forward to today, and it has become a whole world on its own. The unity and family they’ve managed to build is incredible.”

What is your favorite non-musical activity at Tomorrowland?

Does listening to music from your early years make you feel nostalgic? What kind of emotions does it trigger?

“It’s crazy that I have been doing this for more than 20 years, it feels more like 5 or so. In a way the music is my receipt of time, I love looking back and reminiscing about the times, the journey I’ve made. I’m blessed to have lived through so many incredible generations of music, and have been a part of some. Usually when I listen to my early works I can hear that eager 15-year-old kid trying to make it, and I love that hunger! I’m probably hungrier today, but I distribute my energy differently.”

Back to the here and now – what are some of today’s artists you’re excited about?

What achievement are you most proud of?

“In all honesty, I rarely think about achievements. I’m a bit boring that way, I always strive to push things forward and I never feel like I’m winning in any context. So with that said, I measure my achievements differently. When I see a vinyl box set with a complicated design or materials that come to life I feel a win, or when we built that impossible flying platform for SHM at Tele2 it felt like a small win. Achievements to me are the impossible made possible.”

Can you recall your first Tomorrowland performance? What was it like?

“I think it was the second or third edition of the

“My Tomorrowland experience is always different from the regular partygoer, as I move around the back like a little shadow meeting up with friends and artists, most of whom I’ve known for the majority of our adult lives. What always gets me, however, is the love in the air. People are just so happy to be here! Regardless of the weather, day or time, everyone is happy. So for me personally, hanging out at the back with all the people I’ve known for years and getting to know new faces is the best part.”

Will we see the compilation turn into a Size XX performance at Tomorrowland? Can you translate the record to a stage environment?

“Yes, very easily, actually! I teased some of the music during my set at Tomorrowland Winter and it connected really well. It will be great to build those records and moments in the show and bring along some fun surprises so the performance feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t miss out on it, because chances are it’s probably never going to happen again!”