Yann Polewka is a French DJ, producer, and label owner whose groove-laden sounds have been captivating dance floors for nearly a decade. Since his debut release in 2015, Yann has carved out a niche in the House, Deep House, and Disco music scenes, delivering quality productions on esteemed labels like Raw Soul, Esuoh, Disco Disco and La Fête Recording. His signature sound, characterized by infectious rhythms and a deep love for classic House grooves, is informed by a lifelong passion for music and an upbringing that immersed him in the electronic music culture from an early age. In this interview, Yann opens up about his creative journey, his inspirations, and his plans for the future, while also sharing a few personal anecdotes and favorite tracks.
Torture the Artist: Hello Yann, tell us something about your day.
Yann Polewka: Hey Holger! It’s a rainy Wednesday here, always hard to begin the week after playing and organizing a party, but it was an amazing event, so I’m feeling quite positive right now.
Torture the Artist: Releasing music since 2015, which makes it eight years now, on labels like Raw Soul, Esuoh, La Fête Recording, and many more. What release of yours hits closest to your heart, and why? Would you also say it furthered your career as an artist?
Yann Polewka: I started producing music almost 15 years ago, but I began releasing tracks about 12 years ago. To answer your question, I’d say my “House Vie EP” on Raw Soul, released in 2020. It was a strange time, right in the middle of the pandemic, but it received amazing support from some artists I deeply admire. The track “House Vie” is probably the production I’m most proud of, and I still play it from time to time.
Since the pandemic, I’ve had some records that were never released, and I think I waited too long to sign new material.
Torture the Artist: As mentioned earlier, you’ve been releasing music for eight years, but compared to other artists, your output is relatively sparse. Is this a deliberate decision to avoid oversaturating the market, or do you lack time to produce more?
Yann Polewka: Honestly, it’s for a different reason. Since the pandemic, I’ve had some records that were never released, and I think I waited too long to sign new material. Like many artists, the pandemic also had a big impact on my creativity, and I’ve been struggling to find inspiration like I used to.
Torture the Artist: What are your musical plans for the future? Do you have any new EPs in the works?
Yann Polewka: I have a track coming out soon on a VA from a Belgian label, and I’m currently working on two new EPs that I hope will be released later this year. Stay tuned!
Torture the Artist: Are there any labels you dream of releasing an EP on, and why?
Yann Polewka: There are so many labels I’d love to work with! PIV Records, Rutilance Recordings, and AUS Music are definitely on my wishlist.
Torture the Artist: Your music leans towards House, Deep House/Garage, and Disco. Where do these preferences stem from? Was electronic music a big part of your upbringing?
Yann Polewka: Absolutely! My older brother was a DJ, so I was exposed to electronic music when I was just ten years old. Back then, it was more on the minimal and techno side. When I started exploring music on my own and began DJing and producing, I naturally gravitated toward the house groove and its surrounding styles.
Torture the Artist: How did you get into DJing and producing? Do you prefer one over the other, or do they complement each other?
Yann Polewka: I got into DJing through my brother, but I taught myself how to produce. Both are complementary, but DJing was my first love, and it always will be!
Torture the Artist: What’s a House track from your early days that had a significant impact on you, and where did you first hear it?
Yann Polewka: Kerri Chandler “Bar A Thym” had a huge impact on me. My brother played it for me in his bedroom, and it completely shaped my taste in house music. Kerri Chandler remains one of my biggest influences.
Torture the Artist: You’ve primarily produced solo so far. Have you thought about collaborating with other artists? Who would you like to work with, and why?
Yann Polewka: I’ve done some collaborations in the past, though most were never released. I also have a side project called EARL with my friend EVENN. We released an EP on Cardiology and a few other tracks.
Torture the Artist: What does your current studio setup look like? Any go-to gadget?
Yann Polewka: I have some classic gear like the TR-8, TD-3, MicroKorg, and Maschine MKII, but I’m more of a computer guy. I mostly use Ableton and my Launchkey 49.
Torture the Artist: If money weren’t an issue, what’s one piece of studio equipment you’d splurge on?
Yann Polewka: A Roland TR-909, no question! I’ve always dreamed of owning one, but the prices are crazy. Even if I had one, I’m not sure I’d dare play with it! <laughs>
Torture the Artist: How do you prepare for a gig? Do you have routines, and do you play more unreleased music or classics?
Yann Polewka: It depends on the gig, but my sets are usually a mix of promos, new music, and classics. I just play what I love, regardless of when it was released.
I’m not sure if it’s a signature skill, but I use reverb way too much.
Torture the Artist: What’s a signature skill you bring to the decks as a DJ?
Yann Polewka: I’m not sure if it’s a signature skill, but I use reverb way too much. I really need to stop! <laughs>
Torture the Artist: Do you prefer digital setups or spinning vinyl?
Yann Polewka: I don’t have a preference. I love playing vinyl but don’t own many since it’s expensive and not practical for every gig. Most of my sets are digital, but I spin vinyl occasionally.
Torture the Artist: What’s the most expensive record you’ve purchased on Discogs?
Yann Polewka: I’ve never bought a record on Discogs!
Torture the Artist: Where do you usually buy records?
Yann Polewka: Mostly online stores like Deejay.de or HHV, or at local record shops. Sometimes, I buy from people I meet through online classified ads.
Torture the Artist: When you’re not immersed in music, how do you treat yourself?
Yann Polewka: I enjoy having a beer with friends, going to restaurants, and spending quality time with loved ones—just the simple pleasures in life.
Torture the Artist: You’re responsible for the latest art:cast. Where is your mix best enjoyed, and why?
Yann Polewka: It’s a sunny, groovy house mix—perfect for a pre-club party. Grab a beer, let loose, and enjoy!
Torture the Artist: Lastly, what’s a hidden skill of yours, and where did you learn it?
Yann Polewka: I love cooking, and my mum taught me everything I know.
Torture the Artist: What’s your favorite dish to cook?
Yann Polewka: Sausage rougail, a traditional spicy dish from Reunion Island. It’s packed with flavor, and I just love it!
Words by Holger Breuer
Cover picture and picture 4 by Anaëlle Le Doze
Picture 1, 2, 3 by Baptise Durand
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