Wolfram (musician)
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Wolfram Eckert (born in St. Veit an der Glan, Austria), known professionally as WOLFRAM, is an Austrian DJ, producer, and musician recognized for his eclectic style that blends electronic music with Italo disco, Eurodance, and synth-pop. He first gained prominence under the pseudonyms marfloW and Diskokaine, contributing significantly to the revival of Italo disco and Chicago house in the early 2000s.
Early career and influences
Wolfram's early exposure to music was heavily influenced by his upbringing near the Austrian-Italian border, where the sounds of Italian disco and electronic music permeated his childhood. His father played a key role in his musical development, introducing him to classic electronic music artists like Kraftwerk and Jean-Michel Jarre.[1] After completing his education in Austria, Wolfram moved to Vienna to study sound engineering at The SAE Institute, in addition to studying digital media at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna, which laid the technical foundation for his future career in music.[1][2]
Breakthrough and early collaborations
Wolfram's career took off in New York, where his DJ sets gained attention for their unique blend of forgotten Italo disco and Chicago house sounds. This period saw him collaborate with artists like Princess Superstar and Legowelt, as well as executively producing the debut album for[3] Sally Shapiro, Disco Romance, which was praised by Pitchfork Media and introduced a neo-Italo sound to a broader audience.[4]
Album releases and notable work
Wolfram released his self-titled debut album in 2011 on the label Permanent Vacation. The album featured collaborations with notable artists such as Hercules and Love Affair, Haddaway, Paul Parker, and Holy Ghost!, showcasing his ability to blend contemporary electronic sounds with retro influences.[1] Following this, Wolfram began releasing records on DFA Records, the label run by LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy, further cementing his reputation in the electronic music scene.[5]
In 2019, Wolfram returned with his second studio album, AMADEUS, released on DFA Records in the U.S., and internationally on the labels Live from Earth and Public Possession.[6]
This album featured contributions from a diverse array of artists, including Peaches, Yung Hurn, Egyptian Lover, and even posthumous appearances by Falco, alongside a cameo vocal by Pamela Anderson.[3] The eclectic nature of the guest list underscored Wolfram's penchant for creating unexpected and memorable musical experiences.[7]
DJ performances and fashion collaborations
Beyond producing music, Wolfram has DJed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Circoloco in Ibiza and New York clubs, where his sets have earned him a dedicated following.[7] He has also played notable private events, such as Grace Jones’ birthday and Moby's 50th birthday celebrations.[4] Wolfram also created a remix of Moby's "Feeling So Real", which he performed live onstage alongside Moby during his concert in 2009.[8]
Wolfram remains at the forefront of the intersection of fashion and music, as highlighted in a recent interview by Vogue Germany, he remains a favorite DJ for major fashion events, performing at shows for Gucci, Balenciaga, and Vivienne Westwood.[9] In 2023, he collaborated with Zalando for their campaign, "Make Your Own Moment[10]," further solidifying his influence as both a musical and style icon.[11]
Recent work
Wolfram's recent work includes the release of the track "YOYO DISCO" in collaboration with Josh Ludlow, which was released on the iconic label Defected Records at the end of 2023. This track continues to showcase his ability to create dance floor anthems that resonate with a global audience.[7] In a 2024 interview with Sleek Magazine, Wolfram discusses his ongoing passion for 1980s music and his creative process, showcasing his ability to adapt to contemporary music trends while maintaining his distinctive style. His recent releases and DJ sets continue to attract global attention,[11] reaffirming his status as a prominent figure in both music and fashion. Wolfram Eckert continues to be a pivotal figure in electronic music, known for his innovative approach to blending genres, his striking visual presence, and his ability to continuously evolve while staying true to his roots.
References
- ^ a b c Export, Austrian Music (28 June 2012). "Portrait: Wolfram". Austrian Music Export. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ root (19 November 2012). "Wolfram Eckert". Friends of Friends / Freunde von Freunden (FvF). Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ a b Hunstig, Maria (12 January 2023). "Wolfram: Der Lieblings-DJ der Modewelt im Style-Chat". Vogue Germany (in German). Retrieved 20 September 2024.
- ^ a b "Leader of the pack". Monocle. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ "DJ Wolfram". Interview. 12 July 2011. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ "Wolfram returns with Amadeus, his first LP in eight years · News ⟋ RA". Resident Advisor. Retrieved 21 September 2024.
- ^ a b c "Doing The "Disko" With DJ Wolfram | Hype Malaysia". 12 July 2012. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ WOLFRAM AMADEUS (14 October 2009). diskokaine wolfram keyboard live moby. Retrieved 19 September 2024 – via YouTube.
- ^ Hunstig, Maria (12 January 2023). "Wolfram: Der Lieblings-DJ der Modewelt im Style-Chat". Vogue Germany (in German). Retrieved 20 September 2024.
- ^ INDIE, Team (19 December 2022). "DJ Wolfram traces his favourite fashion moments for Zalando". INDIE Magazine. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
- ^ a b "Five Questions With DJ Wolfram". sleek-mag.com. Retrieved 20 September 2024.