Hugo Helmig: ” It’s important to remember that it’s not just a job but also a passion”

Who are you – how did the band get together / how did you start as a musician, what is your musical background?

I’m a young Danish musician from Aarhus. I have always played a little bit and started out with classical piano but I quickly found out that it wasn’t my thing. When I was 15, I began to play music for real again and besides playing at home I’ve also attended different music schools in both Aarhus and Malaga, Spain.

When my music started to take shape, I needed a band so I contacted Mathias, my drummer, and asked him if he knew any young, cool musicians from Aarhus. He sent me a couple of names, I contacted them and asked if they were up for making some music. Then we all met at a local bar and it just worked perfectly from the start, so from that day on we were a band.

What type of music do you play – genre, expression, mood?

I think it’s difficult to put a label on my music, but when I describe it myself, I usually call it pop with a twist.

 What was your first musical experience?

One of my first musical experiences was in fourth grade when I had to sing at the school dance. The song was called “Brick House” and I was so nervous that I forgot to take off my jacket which made me sweat a lot.

What are your sources of inspiration – other bands, people, experiences?

I listen to all kinds of music, right from Muddy Waters to Justin Bieber. One of my biggest heroes is John Mayer. Besides his excellent guitar play he also writes some insanely beautiful lyrics if you ask me.

What is your ambition playing at SPOT?

My ambition with my concert at SPOT is to play a great concert and make sure that the audience remember me when they leave.

Have you ever played abroad? – If yes, where? How was it different?

I was on a promotion tour in Germany in January where I played a few acoustic numbers at 22 radio stations, but they weren’t real concerts. However, in May I am going to bring my band with me on the road and we’re going to play in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne.

 What is your dream as a musician?

My dream is to reach as many people as possible. It’s also a dream to keep getting better and having the desire to learn more, because it’s important to remember that it’s not just a job but also a passion.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far?

I think the most valuable thing I’ve learned so far is to remember to stay true to yourself in every aspect of the process and to say no if there’s something you don’t want to do.

Where do see yourself in five years?

Honestly, I have no idea but I hope that I’ll be doing the exact same thing as now – playing concerts, writing songs and having a great time.