100,000 People Prepare to Lose Themselves as Four Tet Emerges as Unlikely Superstar DJ

Kieran Hebden's Steady Rise from Underground Darling to EDM Sensation

In a remarkable evolution, Kieran Hebden, better known as Four Tet, has gone from being an underground favorite to a superstar DJ with a massive global following. Over the past eight years, Hebden's career has undergone a dramatic transformation, leading him to the pinnacle of his profession. This weekend, he is set to perform to a crowd of tens of thousands during a solo set at Finsbury Park in London, marking a remarkable achievement in his journey.

Hebden's rise to stardom has been fueled by his role as the linchpin of a dynamic dance-party trio, which includes the EDM heavyweight Skrillex and the versatile superproducer Fred Again. This trio has become the most sought-after electronic act on the planet, with sold-out shows at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and show-stopping performances at events like Coachella, where they closed the show for an audience of 100,000 fervent fans.

Despite his newfound fame and the massive crowds he commands, Hebden remains grounded and unpretentious. He reflects on his journey with a sense of humor and a touch of irony, recalling a moment when he went from headlining Coachella to performing a three-and-a-half-hour set at his daughter's 13th birthday party.

Hebden's musical journey began with his experimental rock trio Fridge in the 90s. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a network of kindred spirits, or "karass," who have supported him through thick and thin. This network includes collaborators like Skrillex and Floating Points, who have become some of his closest friends.

His unexpected partnership with Skrillex and Fred Again during the pandemic proved to be a turning point for Hebden. They found solace and creativity in each other's company, resulting in electrifying performances and a renewed sense of purpose in a chaotic world.

Hebden's ability to adapt and embrace new musical directions has been key to his success. He ventured into the world of EDM and mega-festivals, recognizing the power of its cutting-edge sound design to captivate audiences worldwide. Despite criticism from purists, Hebden remains true to his artistic vision and continues to connect with fans on an unprecedented scale.

The highlight of Hebden's recent journey was headlining Coachella, a moment he describes as an "out-of-body experience." As he mixed unexpected tracks and witnessed the ecstatic crowd's response, he realized the immense power he held in creating moments of pure musical euphoria.

While he continues to work on a new Four Tet album, Hebden's independence allows him to release music at his own pace through his label, Text. His legal battle with his former record label also highlights his commitment to artists' rights in the streaming era.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Hebden explores innovative ways to present his music to audiences. His recent Alexandra Palace gig featured a mesmerizing light installation synchronized with surround-sound production, pushing the boundaries of live performances.

Ultimately, Hebden's journey is a testament to his authenticity, adaptability, and unwavering passion for music. His collaborations, friendships, and commitment to his family, particularly his daughter, keep him grounded as he navigates the world of superstar DJs and continues to redefine the electronic music landscape.