How was 2018 for you?
Thomas Schumacher: Awesome. Definitely one of the best years of my life so far. So many pieces of the puzzle that I’ve been working on have come together this year in my productions, my gigs and my personal life. I feel like a real grown-up, like I’ve finally evolved to fit my own shoes.
Highlights?
There were so many. “Stella,” the track I dedicated to my daughter, becoming my first number one on Beatport was definitely right up there with the best moments of 2018. Coming into my second year of being sober I realized that none of the highs that I was experiencing would have been possible without my sobriety. Working with my brother Victor Ruiz and releasing another EP on my Electric Ballroom label was another highlight for me. The fact that “Wonder” also went number one was just the cherry on top.
Lowlights?
There is a lot going on around the world right now that I feel deeply troubled by. I’m always looking for ways that I can do something that contributes to change things for the better, starting with myself and my own life. One the hardest parts, and therefore a lowlight in my life, will always be that when I get to go out and do what I love I usually can’t take my family with me when my daughter is in school.
Song of the year?
ANNA – “Hidden Beauties” (Kompakt Extra)
I adore Anna’s production skills, everything she does sounds elegant, effortless and classy. “Hidden Beauties” is testament to all of her qualities and already a modern techno classic.
What’s your New Year’s resolution?
I want to commit to a daily meditation practice. I know it is good for me in every possible way but I keep slacking off. My goal is to make meditation as natural and necessary as brushing my teeth.