Hailing from Montréal, Juno-nominated DJ and producer Andrew Pololos has built a reputation for his magnetic performances and signature deep house sound infused with modern pop elements. With over 15 years of experience, features on major platforms like EARMILK, and more than 1000 events under his belt, he’s captivated audiences across the globe, from Greece and Australia to the Caribbean and the U.S. A veteran resident at iconic venues like Beachclub and New City Gas, Pololos has shared stages with industry giants like David Guetta, Tiesto, and Martin Garrix. We caught up with him to discuss his creative journey, dream collaborations, and what’s next on his musical horizon.
Read our interview with Andrew below.
Paint us a picture: what sparked your passion for the arts in the first place? Was there a single moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue this path?
My father was a wedding DJ growing up, and I’ve always looked up to my dad. He’s my hero.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
I’m not one of those producers that can sit in the studio all day, every day; I definitely need to feel something and need to be inspired by a track, a vocal, or a performance I witnessed.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
I’m mostly producing ‘in the box’ with Native Instruments plugins, Serum, Nexus, and Splice samples.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
Go on a vacation and scope out other artists and venues.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
While performing, I don’t need much. I like to disconnect and focus on the moment and the crowd in front of me. While creating, I like to be comfortable in my home studio, where I’m familiar with my speakers, keyboard, and headphones.
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
Linking up with a Greek band was the best thing to ever happen to me creatively. The constant collaboration and idea-sharing has been productive.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
I realized I love to collaborate with other artists. I just think a track can get pushed so much further this way. I tend to be impatient and want to release quantity, but I’ve realized QUALITY in releases is what I prefer.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
Just jamming with other amazing composers is always so fun for me. Whether it’s my bandmate Alexandros ripping the piano with one hand and an ice cream cone in the other, Bobby shredding the bouzouki, Minoe writing vocal hooks on the spot, or my good friend Kevin Figs creating amazing ideas in seconds… that is my happy place.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
As a beat maker, finding a vocalist and songwriter that you have chemistry with is the biggest challenge. Collaborating with superstar singers like Rihanna, Sabrina Claudio, or Jorja Smith would be a dream.
Any side projects you’re working on?
I’m always working on my clubbier tracks, remixes, and edits for my club sets. I’m also working with a Greek band producing electronic music. We have an EP ready to go. It’s just a matter of either releasing independently or with a label at this point.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
My friend Minoe. She’s going to be a star. Her songwriting capability is unlike anything I’ve ever seen.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
At home and in the car, I listen to hip-hop, Greek music, ’70s soul tracks, and classical music, so nothing really surprising as a music lover.
Which song, album, or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
’70s music. Even though these tracks are now 50 years old, the songwriting and composition are unmatched and will forever last the test of time.
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
Owning a nightclub and opening another takes up a lot of my time. Splitting up and differentiating my artist side and business side is a constant juggle.
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
The title would be Deep & Dope, named after a 2013 promotional CD I made and gave out to friends. The hidden track would be called ‘Summertime Sun’ to spite my friend Anthony, who thinks all house songs are the same.
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
Opening a new nightclub, lots of travels, and celebrating many weddings and engagements.
Famous last words?
Live life like a standing tree: always growing upward from every branch but remaining strong and grounded to the earth.
Follow Andrew Pololos:
Website – Spotify – Apple Music – Youtube – Soundcloud – Instagram – Facebook
