Sam Feldt
on a more Sustainable Music Industry
“I told my fans that I had maybe the most surprising collaboration of my life so far: a song that I made with whales!”
Did you know that humpback whales sing to communicate with each other? Not only do they pick up each other’s best tunes, but they ingeniously remix them to create global hits!
Sam Renders (Feldt) is the creative soul who delved into their enchanting world to research their remarkable ability to communicate through song. "The Whale Song" documentary draws a fascinating parallel between Sam’s musical talent and the melodious humpback whales, narrated by the renowned marine biologist Nan Hauser.
In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, Sam is celebrated for his keen sense of musical storytelling. He is a Dutch DJ, producer, entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate who takes fun very seriously, as he lives by the words ‘If you do something, do it with your whole heart.’ His uplifting songs are a movement of positivity. With every beat, Sam chases the endless summer, bringing warmth to listeners worldwide.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of creativity, he treasures the unbeatable thrill of creating something meaningful: “Witnessing the smiles and the unity my work brings fuels my passion to keep pushing the boundaries, both musically and in my entrepreneurial endeavours.” His perseverance saved him, as in the rollercoaster world of music and entrepreneurship, he has faced plenty of setbacks. A “never-give-up” attitude that has propelled him through tough times.
A few years ago, a moment of reflection became an epiphany: “My parents raised me with sustainability in mind at every step of the way, eco-conscious and earth-loving. However, I realized my lifestyle had drifted away from these ideals. I remember being in an aeroplane and thinking about the kind of polluting person I am. Doing over 200 flights a year, eating a lot of meat and my shows being filled with plastic. A complete disaster!” Shortly after, he posted a public New Year's resolution on social media, promising to do better – and he did!
Through his Heartfeldt Foundation and ecosystem (Records, Publishing, Radio, Events), Sam works towards a more sustainable dance music industry through the Give, Do, Inspire & Empower framework, a model that combines the reach of various influencers to create awareness around sustainability. He is also an ambassador of Plastic Promise, Plastic Soup Foundation, and partner of Blond:ish and Bye Bye Plastic Foundation: “Sustainability is now deeply embedded in everything I do!”
Read Sam’s genuine answers for Inspirators and never stop dancing to the tunes of the Earth!
Thank you, Sam, for being an Uplifting Sustainable DJ!
#INSPIRATORS QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Sam Feldt (Sammy Boeddha Renders)
Company / Institution: Sam Feldt; Heartfeldt (Foundation); Hello World Investments; Fangage
Title: Artist; Entrepreneur; Speaker; Investor & Philanthropist
Website: samfeldt.com
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samrenders/
Country of origin: Netherlands
Country you currently live in: Netherlands
Your definition of Regeneration:
Regeneration, in the context of sustainability, is about creating systems that not only minimize harm but actively improve and rejuvenate the environment and society. It's about going beyond sustainability to enhance the natural world and empower communities.
For me, this philosophy is deeply embedded in everything I do: from the way I approach my music and live performances to how I run my businesses. Through initiatives like the Heartfeldt Foundation, we aim to not just reduce the negative impacts of our activities but to create a positive ripple effect that encourages growth, restoration, and innovation in how we interact with our planet.
Main business challenge you face: One of the main business challenges I'm facing right now revolves around staying innovative and relevant in both the music and entrepreneurial worlds. The music industry is incredibly dynamic, with trends and technologies evolving at a rapid pace. Balancing the creative aspects of producing music that resonates with listeners, while also leading ventures like Fangage and Heartfeldt Records, requires constant innovation and adaptation.
Moreover, integrating sustainability into all aspects of these ventures adds another layer of complexity, but it's a challenge I'm passionate about tackling every day. Keeping everything moving forward in harmony, and ensuring that we're making a positive impact while still achieving our business goals, is something that requires a lot of focus and energy.
Main driver that keeps you going: The main driver for me is the relentless pursuit of creativity and making a positive impact through my music and sustainability efforts. Whether it's dropping a new track that gets the dancefloor moving or launching an initiative with the Heartfeldt Foundation that promotes a greener planet, the thrill of creating something meaningful and seeing the joy it brings to others is unbeatable.
Witnessing the smiles, the energy, and the unity my work brings, fuels my passion to keep pushing the boundaries, both musically and in my entrepreneurial endeavors. It's about chasing that endless summer, both literally and metaphorically, and sharing it with the world.
The trait you are most proud of in yourself: My perseverance. In the rollercoaster world of music and entrepreneurship, I've faced plenty of setbacks. Yet, it's this never-give-up attitude that has propelled me through tough times, allowing me to grow and succeed in ways I once only dreamed of.
The trait you most value in others: Authenticity. It's about being real, true to one's self, and not putting up a facade. In both music and life, the connections we make are deeper and more meaningful when they're rooted in genuine expression and honesty. Authenticity fosters trust and creates a solid foundation for any relationship, whether it's with fans, collaborators, or friends.
Passions & little things that bring you joy: Music, without a doubt, is my greatest passion! It's the heart of everything I do. Crafting a new track, feeling the beat sync with my heart, and then sharing that rhythm with the world is an indescribable joy. Beyond the decks, sustainability efforts light me up. Knowing that every small step can lead to a greener planet keeps me motivated. And, of course, the little things: watching the sunset, a good cup of coffee in the morning, or a spontaneous road trip with friends. These moments remind me to cherish the journey, not just the destination.
The Inspirators who determined you to take the regenerative path:
A personal moment of reflection during which I became aware of the effect my lifestyle was having on the environment ignited my journey towards sustainability. My upbringing with very eco-conscious parents who raised our own food and lived in harmony with nature had a significant impact on this epiphany.
Additionally, as a member of the music and entertainment industry, I've drawn inspiration from other artists and organizations that support the environment. Partnerships with initiatives like Plastic Promise, Plastic Soup Foundation, and collaborations with like-minded artists such as Blond:ish and Bye Bye Plastic have been instrumental in shaping my approach to sustainability within the events sector. These experiences and influences have led me to create the Heartfeldt Foundation, focusing on promoting sustainable living and reducing the environmental impact of my activities as a DJ and producer.
A starting point for companies or professionals that are beginning the regeneration journey: Embarking on the journey towards regeneration and sustainability is a significant step for any company or professional. A good starting point is to adopt a mindset of continuous improvement and openness to change. Evaluate your current practices and identify areas where you can reduce your environmental impact. This could involve anything from reducing waste, conserving energy, to integrating sustainable materials into your products or services.
Most used and abused clichés in sustainability that bother you:
One of the clichés that really grates on me is "Every little helps." While the sentiment behind it is positive, suggesting that small actions can contribute to a larger impact, it often becomes an excuse for minimal effort or inaction. What bothers me more is when it's used to justify token gestures towards sustainability, rather than encouraging meaningful, systemic changes. In my journey, both in music and with the Heartfeldt Foundation.
An honest piece of advice for young people who lose hope:
Losing hope can feel like you're stuck in a never-ending loop of setbacks, but remember, resilience is key. Every failure, every rejection, is not a stop sign; it's a detour sign guiding you towards a different path, maybe even a better one. My own path was paved with challenges, rejections from labels, and moments where I doubted everything. But it was those very moments that taught me the most about perseverance and believing in my vision. Always keep pushing forward, because the only sure way to fail is to stop trying.
Books that had a great impact on you / Must-Reads for any regenerative professional: I've always been drawn to stories and insights that stir creativity, challenge the status quo, and inspire action towards a better future.
Books that blend personal development with actionable entrepreneurship insights, like The Lean Startup by Eric Ries, have been particularly influential in my journey. It's about innovation, adapting to change, and the importance of continuous learning, themes that resonate deeply with me. Another favourite is Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari, which offers a thought-provoking look at our past and insights into how we might shape our future, especially in terms of sustainability and ethical progress. These reads have not just informed my music and business ventures, but also how I approach life's challenges and opportunities.
Movies / Documentaries you would watch all over again: Absolutely, let's get into specifics. One film that I could watch over and over is "Our Planet." It's a beautifully shot series that highlights the beauty of our world while also stressing the urgent need for sustainability. It aligns perfectly with my passion for environmental causes and has inspired some of the work I do with the Heartfeldt Foundation.
Another must-watch is "The Social Dilemma," which delves into the complex world of social media and technology, areas that deeply interest me given my background in tech entrepreneurship with Fangage. Both of these have significantly shaped my views and actions in both my personal and professional life.
Websites / Podcasts you visit frequently:
I'm always on the lookout for content that fuels my passions and keeps me informed, especially around music, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. For a deep dive into the tech and business world, I frequent "TechCrunch" and "Mashable." They're fantastic for staying up-to-date with the latest innovations and start-up culture, which is a big part of my life given my work with Fangage and Hello World Investments.
When it comes to podcasts, "How I Built This" by Guy Raz is a staple. It's incredibly inspiring to hear stories of entrepreneurs and innovators from various fields, offering insights that I often find applicable to my own ventures. This blend of tech, business, and creativity really speaks to the intersection of my interests.
Music that makes you (and your heart) sing: Music that resonates with me has always been about connection and emotion, something that stirs the soul and brings people together. A track that has this magic for me is "Show Me Love" – not just because I've made a version of my own, but because of how it connects with audiences worldwide, crossing cultural and linguistic barriers. It's about the universal language of music, how a melody or a beat can evoke emotions and memories, creating moments of joy and unity. Each time I play it or hear it, it's a vivid reminder of why I fell in love with music in the first place.
Places you travelled to that left a mark on you: Travelling has always been a huge part of my life, both for shows and personal exploration. Tokyo and Bali stand out for their unique vibes and the unforgettable experiences they offered. In Tokyo, the energy of the city and the warmth of the fans were incredible. There’s something about the culture and the engagement of the people there that’s truly special. Bali, on the other hand, is a paradise that blends natural beauty with a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and find inspiration. These places have influenced not only the music I make but also how I see the world.
Global Regenerative Voices you recommend us to follow:
Diving into sustainability and making a tangible difference requires looking up to those who are leading by example.
Blond:ish, through their Bye Bye Plastic initiative, is doing groundbreaking work to eliminate single-use plastics from the music industry. They're not just talking about change; they're implementing it.
Another voice worth following is the Plastic Soup Foundation. Their relentless efforts to tackle plastic pollution head-on are both inspiring and informative. These organizations not only speak to my heart but also align with the actions we're taking through the Heartfeldt Foundation to promote a more sustainable lifestyle and a greener tomorrow.
Trends in Regeneration we should keep an eye on: When diving into regenerative practices, the essence stands in embracing circular economies, supporting renewable energy integration, and promoting regenerative agriculture. These steps are vital in our shift towards sustainability. Each action, no matter how small, contributes to this larger goal of a greener future.
Events we should attend / Best places for networking (online or offline):
For anyone passionate about music, sustainability, or entrepreneurship, attending electronic music conferences and festivals is a no-brainer. These are not just about the beats and parties; they're hubs for making meaningful connections. Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) stands out as a prime example, offering a blend of showcases, panels, and networking opportunities that are second to none. It's where creativity meets business, and where you can meet both up-and-coming talent and established industry leaders.
Similarly, the International Music Summit (IMS) in Ibiza is another hotspot for networking. It brings together the global electronic music community to discuss the industry's future, share insights, and forge new partnerships. It's a melting pot of ideas and innovation, where discussions go beyond music to include sustainability and technology, aligning closely with my personal and professional interests.
Impactful and relevant Sustainable Development or Regeneration courses or certifications:
When venturing into the world of sustainable development and regeneration, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge and skills that can make a real difference. While I've personally not taken specific courses or certifications, the ethos of continuous learning and practical action has always guided my journey. However, based on the principles that have shaped my own path - like those driving the Heartfeldt Foundation and my commitment to sustainability - I'd recommend looking into programs that offer a blend of theory and practical application.
Universities and organizations worldwide are increasingly offering courses on sustainability, circular economy, renewable energy, and regenerative practices. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy can be great starting points, offering access to a wide range of topics under the guidance of industry experts and academic professionals. Additionally, organizations like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which focuses on the transition to a circular economy, provide insightful resources and might offer certifications or courses that align with these values.
Remember, the goal is to not just accumulate knowledge, but to translate it into actionable steps that can have a tangible impact on our environment. It's about finding courses that resonate with your passion for sustainability and equip you with the tools to implement change in your community or industry.
Reasons to feel optimistic about our future in 2030:
There are ample reasons to remain hopeful about our future, especially by 2030. The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources is a game-changer, reducing our carbon footprint and combating climate change. We're also seeing more individuals and companies embracing sustainability, from everyday choices to business operations, signaling a shift towards more conscientious living.
Additionally, the rise of technology and innovation continues to offer solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges, making sustainability more accessible to everyone. These trends, coupled with a growing global awareness and activism around environmental issues, give us solid ground for optimism.
Reasons to feel pessimistic about our future in 2030:
While it's in my nature to focus on the positive, it's also important to address the challenges that can make us feel pessimistic about our future. The escalation of climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events and biodiversity loss, is alarming. Despite the technological advancements and growing awareness, the pace of change often feels too slow compared to the urgency required. Additionally, economic disparities and social inequalities continue to widen, making it harder for communities to bounce back from environmental and health crises. These issues highlight the need for immediate, collective action.
Regenerative Leadership qualities much needed today:
In today's world, regenerative leadership isn't just a nice-to-have; it's essential. This kind of leadership requires a blend of vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to sustainability.
Vision is critical: seeing beyond the immediate to understand how actions today shape our world tomorrow.
Resilience in navigating the inevitable challenges and setbacks with a positive, forward-thinking mindset.
The commitment to sustainability ensures that the pursuit of success includes a healthy respect for our planet and its resources.
These qualities, combined with a genuine passion for making a positive impact, can drive transformative change across industries and communities. It's about leading by example, fostering environments where innovative ideas can flourish, and always striving for a better, more sustainable future.
The Inspirator you are endorsing for a future edition is:
Choosing just one Inspirator for a future edition is tough, but I'd spotlight Elon Musk. His drive to tackle some of the world's most pressing issues, from space exploration with SpaceX to sustainable energy with Tesla, aligns with my belief in using technology and innovation to create a better future. Like in music and business, it's about pushing boundaries, thinking creatively, and striving for positive change.
The quote that inspires you:
This quote speaks volumes to me, especially in the realms of music, technology, and entrepreneurship. It's a constant reminder that passion is the fuel for excellence.
"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do." (Steve Jobs)
Your quote that will inspire us:
