Interview with Drivetrain about the new release on his label Soiree Records International

Derrick Thompson is founder of Soiree Records International, Detroit’s underground music launchpad. Later establishing the techno label, Xplor Music, Thompson expanded his growing influence in electronic music. Creating an endless repertoire of quality, groud-breaking tracks ranging from house and techno to downtempo and experimental, has brought about a continuous demand for Thompson’s music from labels, major and independent, around the globe. Behind the decks, Derrick Thompson has electrified dance floors around the planet for more than a decade. His dynamic, energetic mixing technique along with his undeniably impeccable track selection has ignited crowds at the world’s most highly acclaimed clubs and venues. Derrick Thompson has validated himself internationally as a musical powerhouse.

1. Hi Derrick! Thanks for talking to us, how are you doing?

I’m doing well. Thanks for the opportunity to speak with you.

1. You are known for your techno and house sound, why is this the genre/style you chose to produce? What about it that resonates with you?

Actually, I produce music of all sorts and genres that you would not expect to hear from me.

However, you are correct, Soiree Records is essentially a house/techno label. We have also released down tempo and experimental tracks at times. But I’d rather not put the music that I release or produce into a box or specific category.

For me it’s more of a feeling or a spirit in sound that inspires me. There is a certain soul/energy about the music that’s not so easy to explain.

1. You released your new various on your label Soiree Records International. What was the inspiration behind the release and what were you trying to bring the listener to experience?

The upcoming release “Machine Driven” is exactly as the title describes. This release is powerful and undeniably built for the dance floor.

But still, it appeals to a wide audience, each track having its own distinct identity.

1. Tell us more about yourself. New music, events and projects to tell us about?

We’re closing out 2023 with the release of the Machine Driven EP. I’ll also do a small DJ tour in December.

For 2024, I have material which has already been scheduled for release on various labels of various genres including techno, house, electro, etc.

Also, you can look for another release on Soiree Records in February. As always, our music is available in vinyl, digital and streaming formats.

That will be followed by another tour in April for which we are currently booking dates.

1. Take us through a day in your life, from a possible morning routine through to your production work and otherwise, please.

A typical day for me is actually pretty boring. I start off with some stretching to get energized. Then I spend hours on the computer, with email, social media, business…blah, blah, blah.

After that, I spend about an hour practicing piano and guitar to keep up my chops. Then I spend an hour and a half in the gym. Last, but certainly not least, I create in my studio. Just like I said, my day is not so exciting…

1. There have been quite a few amazing electronic music artists to emerge from Detroit like yourself, what was it like growing up there and who were some of your local heroes?

It’s no secret that Detroit is the home of an ongoing, legendary music culture. Growing up in that environment has had a big influence on my life.

I’ve had family members who were involved in the music scene before me. Their experiences exposure me to the culture and gave me the drive to see what it was all about and eventually dive in head first.

1. Who did you look up to and why? If you were a tour-guide for nightlife in Detroit, what would be the clubs you’d take the people to see and what local DJs do they need to hear?

As a young aspiring musician, I mostly looked up to other musicians (mostly jazz and rock) who heavily influenced my performing and song writing abilities. From an early electronic music perspective, I followed the Detroit pioneers as well as UK Drum & Bass and Techno from The Netherlands. It was all fresh and groundbreaking.

As for the local Detroit scene, there have been a few venues to open in recent years which consistently bring very good talent. To name a few, Spotlite, Marble Bar, TV Lounge, SpkrBox and others. Frequently, there are also warehouse parties that can be quite nice.

All of these consistently feature quality DJs, both local and international.

1. What’s a book you’ve read or film you watched that has left an impact on you, and why?

Interesting question. I’m afraid I’ll have to get back to you with an answer for that one.

1. Apart from music, what makes you happiest?

I love to travel, exercise, a nice dinner at a fancy restaurant, quality time with family.

10. What does the remainder of 2023 hold for you? Anything you can share with us?

A small DJ tour in December with dates in Europe and the UK. Then a Caribbean cruise for some much needed rest and relaxation…a good brain reset.