CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS 139: DJ HAVANA BROWN HOLDS ONTO HER INNER KID IN NEW SINGLE, FOREVER YOUNG
Interview by Brooke Gibbs.
DJ Havana Brown, renowned as one of Australia's distinguished musical exports, has returned with her 90’s inspired banger, Forever Young. Collaboratively penned by Havana and Sydney-based production duo DNA, this track marks a new era in her illustrious career.
Havana Brown has stepped into a new role as the founder of her record label, Havana Brown Entertainment (HBE). Together with her long-time partner and manager, Vince Deltito, she will release all her future music through HBE, taking control of her creative journey.
Futuremag Music caught up with Havana to talk about the new single, the record label, and her set for Fridayz Live National Tour.
FMM: Congratulations on another great release with Forever Young. How did you celebrate?
HAVANA: Thanks so much. I typically don't go all out in celebrating on release day. Instead, the real celebration happens in the studio when the song comes together. Once we feel the magic and know it's a great song, that's when I go all out with the writers and collaborators, celebrating the creative success.
FMM: I love the sound. It takes me back to the 90s, which fits perfectly for a track called Forever Young. Why did you go with this sound?
Havana: Thank you. The '90s vibe is making a strong comeback, and I've been incorporating a lot of mixes and remixes inspired by that era into my recent DJ sets. The crowd has been really responsive, so I've been eager to create an original track with those iconic '90s beats.
FMM: What does being Forever Young mean to you?
HAVANA: Well, to me, Forever Young is like holding onto that inner kid vibe, you know? It's all about enjoying the good stuff in life, keeping that spark alive inside, and celebrating the real things that matter. It's a cool way of saying youth isn't just about how old you are or how you look; it's about keeping that spirit young, both in your heart and mind.
FMM: This release also celebrates an exciting new chapter for you after founding your own record label. Why is now the right time to take control of your creative journey?
HAVANA: Founding my own record label feels like the natural next step in my creative journey. It's all about embracing new opportunities and having the freedom to shape my musical path. Exciting times ahead! By the way, I'm also on the lookout to sign other talented artists to join the adventure. Let's make some great music together!
FMM: You’re doing this alongside your long-time partner and manager. How do you balance the personal relationship with the business and creative side of things?
FMM: Honestly, it's been easy balancing both the personal and professional sides of life with Vince Deltito, my long-time partner and manager. Surprisingly, we've found a rhythm that works for us. I think the key is communication and mutual respect. We've learned to separate work discussions from personal ones and maintain a healthy balance. It might seem like an impossible feat, but for us, it's about understanding each other's strengths and leveraging them in both our professional and personal life. It's a unique dynamic, but hey, it works!
FMM: You’re touring nationally with Fridayz National Tour throughout November. We’re really excited to get out there and see you perform! What can we expect from your performance?
HAVANA: Thrilled to be back on the Fridayz National Tour this year. We're halfway through, and the vibe has been unreal, especially with this awesome lineup. I'll be spinning a hype DJ set, throwing in a few surprises – including my latest single, Forever Young. Catch me just before Jason Derulo hits the stage, keeping that energy sky-high! Can't wait for the next stops!
FMM: It features such a great lineup of artists! Which artist are you most looking forward to seeing and why?
HAVANA: I was so excited to catch Boyz II Men, and they were everything I hoped for – pure magic! Those harmonies are next level. And JoJo? She killed it with that incredible energy and amazing voice. The tour's off to an amazing start, and I can't wait for the next performances!
FMM: You recently performed at Melbourne United as their halftime entertainment with a routine you learned in just two hours! With your latest dance track, do you have any tips on how to learn choreography fast? You’ll have to choreograph a Forever Young routine for us!
HAVANA: That halftime gig at Melbourne United was a wild ride! Honestly, it was a last-minute decision – two hours to learn the routine? Talk about a challenge! Normally, I'd rehearse for days, but hey, sometimes you just gotta go with the flow. Tip: Break it down into chunks, and practice like there's no tomorrow. As for a Forever Young routine, I'd say mix some nostalgic moves with a dash of spontaneity – you'll be good!
FMM: What’s next for you?
HAVANA: I have so many shows coming up throughout the rest of the year, and stay tuned for fresh music dropping in 2024. Can’t wait for you to hear!
FRIDAYZ LIVE 23 TOUR DATES:
Friday 10 November – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
Saturday 11 November – HBF Park, Perth
Sunday 12 November – Adelaide Entertainment Centre Arena, Adelaide
Thursday 16 November – Spark Arena, Auckland
Friday 17 November – Showgrounds, Brisbane
Saturday 18 November – Giants Stadium, Sydney