We’re joined by Amsterdam-based producer and multi-instrumentalist 9T7. He recently shared his latest single, “Modern Vintage”, created in collaboration with Dutch electronic artist Emulov, offering a preview of his upcoming debut EP ‘On Intuition’, set for release on October 3rd via Aviary Bridge Records. Known for creating chilled electronic soundscapes with organic textures and lo-fi synths, 9T7’s sound is a mesmerizing fusion of contemporary beats and classic influences, making him one of the most exciting new producers to watch.
- Your music draws from various genres, including jazz and electronica. How did your musical journey begin, and what were some of your early influences growing up in Amsterdam?
It started with a birthday present from my parents. They tried giving me Lego, Playmobil, a football, but none of them held my attention for more than two minutes. Until they gave me an electric toy guitar. I was up in my room playing that thing for hours and hours, so eventually, my parents bought me a real one. At dinner, my parents always played Michael Franks and the compilation CDs of Putumayo. In the car, my dad was always air-drumming along with U2, The Doobie Brothers, and Billy Joel. After a brief period of heavy listening to Dutch hip hop, I found out about D’Angelo, Talib Kweli, and A Tribe Called Quest, and that’s when it really started to take shape.
- You’ve had an interesting path, starting as a booking agent and DJ before becoming a producer. How did these roles shape your understanding of music and the way you now approach production?
Those roles have helped me tremendously in gaining experience and training my musical ear—skills I rely heavily on when I make music. It’s both a conscious and unconscious process based on intuition, which is directly tied to the experience I’ve gained over the years.
- Amsterdam has such a rich cultural and music scene. How has the city’s environment and its blend of musical influences impacted your sound and artistic development?
The city, but mostly the people, are a big source of inspiration. Not necessarily in a way that gives me a melody or progression to work with, but more in a motivating sense, with an urgency to express myself. You can often find me walking in the Vondelpark to think out song arrangements, creative strategies, and instrumentation.
The current EP is a reflection of the city, too. It’s an oxymoron of urban and nature, just like the EP, which combines acoustic instrumentation with synthesizers and digital effects.
- How did you first break into the industry, and what was that experience like?
The first big break was supporting and headlining with Mario (USA) at Paradiso Amsterdam. It was a beautiful experience that I’m very grateful for. Another favorite moment was my first vinyl release with the Super Sonic Jazz label, together with Hatoon, and a production on the latest album of the Dutch hip hop legend HEF called “Zeven”.
- Your new single “Modern Vintage” blends contemporary beats with classic influences. What inspired this fusion of styles, and how did your collaboration with Emulov come about?
The song started out as a jam. We recorded various parts and variations that I later pieced together with some additional production. I’ve worked with Emulov on several occasions, so it was only logical to have them on the debut EP. They’re very passionate and skilled musicians/producers, so you should definitely check them out!
- Can you tell us more about the meaning behind the title of your upcoming debut EP *On Intuition*?
“On Intuition” is a collection of musical compositions made purely on intuition. It’s the first body of work that combines my visual and musical perspective as one entity. It’s about emotion, letting go, and holding on.
- What can listeners expect from the rest of the tracks on your EP? Are there any specific themes or concepts that tie the project together?
The EP features a signature blend of acoustic and electronic elements. It reflects the balance between nature and the artificial. A general tone of melancholy mixed with jazz and hip hop influences runs throughout the project.
- Looking back on your career so far, how do you feel your musical identity has evolved, and what do you hope to achieve with your debut EP and beyond?
I feel like my music and skills have evolved a lot over the last few years. That’s mainly because I had the opportunity to spend most of my time on music while studying at the Herman Brood Academy. During that time, I gradually moved towards my own sound and vision. The music started to gravitate more towards jazz with hip hop influences, creating a signature sound that is recognizable as 9T7.
With “On Intuition”, I’m hoping to present a work of art that resonates with people. I hope listeners find comfort and energy in the songs, just as I did. The next EP is already in progress and will feature multiple visual outlets, live recordings, and much more, so stay tuned!
