Henri Bergmann talks authenticity and sound curation as a label boss [Interview]

A label boss, mother, and world-renowned DJ, Henri Bergmann has made quite the name while remaining undeniably true to her artistic vision.

Exron Music sat down with Henri Bergmann after her electric set at Pacha Ibiza on August 24. Playing back-to-back with Maltan melodic house artist The Element, Henri’s brilliance truly shined through. Reflecting on what she enjoys most about the art of a good B2B, she notes that “you take on that person’s personality as well as your own”. Furthermore, she stresses how much you learn about the person as you adapt to and anticipate their sound.

Henri Bergmann shares that much of her early inspiration stemmed from the German electronic band Kraftwerk. Given that their innovative “live stage persona” largely kickstarted the popularization of electronic music, this is certainly no surprise. Specifically, she says, “they were kind of like the start of DJing, as far as I see it.”

When asked how she has navigated her sound through releases on different labels, Henri admits that adaptation is key. “People say that you shouldn’t sacrifice your sound, but [often] you just have to cater to [them].” When running her label “Automatik,” therefore, she “wouldn’t want to release something that [she] wouldn’t play [herself].” Indisputably, Bergmann’s label has been a powerhouse for her music, with her releases gaining significant traction.

Her breakout track “Protection” in 2021, especially the Dodi Palese remix, became a beloved anthem among melodic house enthusiasts. The following year, she released “Higher Dimension,” which quickly became a staple in Maceo Plex’s sets. In 2022, Henri also released “Simulacrum,” a heavier track that received strong support from other greats like Tale of Us.

As the head of Automatik, Bergmann has also been instrumental in driving the label’s A&R and curating several standout remixes from artists. Some of these names include Dodi Palese, Hernan Cattaneo, and her recent B2B partner The Element. Moreover, Henri has decided to continue releasing a Various Artists compilation (VA) every year with about 15 tracks. Her hope is to use this as a vehicle to help new artists develop and get fresh faces onto the scene.

Describing her sound, Henri Bergmann prioritizes vocal lines and strong synth melodies that are not easily forgettable. Due to the major popularization of melodic house and techno, she ultimately wants to ensure her tracks unquestionably stand out. Speaking of standing out, Henri debuted a new track at Pacha featuring her husband Wennink on vocals, which received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the crowd.

Despite the lack of off-time between touring and raising her two kids, Henri has planned a much-needed vacation to Crete. Later thinking about her favorite places to perform, she highlights Mexico. From Bar America in Guadalajara to Zamna Tulum, she believes the crowd is unmatched. “You feed off their energy, and they’re really into the music,” a feeling that’s hard to recreate elsewhere.

Undoubtedly, Henri Bergmann has already played a number of impressive venues across the world. However, her dream venue to play in the future would firstly be Printworks (come 2026, of course). Additionally, Drumsheds and Creamfields would also be a dream for the London-based artist.

From her live sets to the way she describes her craft, it’s abundantly clear that Henri Bergmann is a true gem. What truly sets her apart from other DJs is that she “just can’t be pigeon-holed into one sound.” Although it’s easier to book DJs who stick to one genre, Henri likes to mix and match between the many she enjoys.

To end the interview, we asked what Henri Bergmann loves most about Ibiza. For those who have not made it past Ibiza Town, Henri recommends driving out to the scenic “calas.” Just a 30-minute ride away, “it’s magical and [feels] like a completely different island.” Of course, Henri is definitely no stranger to the wonders of summer in Ibiza. Less than two weeks from now, she will be returning to play during Zamna at Hï Ibiza on September 12.

If our night out in Ibiza with Henri showed us anything, it’s that her sets are truly a can’t-miss experience. To stay up to date with Henri’s tour schedule and track releases, check out her website.

Feature Image: Press Shot

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