Tyler Wenning Interview
1. For people who are just discovering you, how would you introduce yourself as an artist?
I’m a DJ and music producer focusing on drive and consistency on the dance floor. My productions are primarily techno however my dj sets can range from techno to tech house
2. How did growing up or being based in Connecticut help shape who you are as a DJ and producer?
CT helped shape me to be a versatile DJ. The market for techno and house isn’t as big here as in some other areas, so you have to please the crowd you have. CT is a small state but has an open minded music community that allows you to try new ideas and be creative.
3. What was the moment when you realized, “This isn’t just a hobby anymore, this is what I’m doing for real”?
Once I got my first physical DJ setup, a Numark 4Trak controller, I was instantly hooked. I’ve spent a lot of time with computer software like Virtual DJ first so I was already familiar with the idea of DJing. Then I started creating my own music and growing my collection of equipment.
4. Your sound is described as heavy, driving, and hypnotic. In your own words, what makes a track feel like a true “Tyler Wenning” record?
It needs to have overall punch and a rolling bassline for it to have that drive and hypnotic feel. I like my drums & hi-hats to groove and interesting synth sounds that make you think, “What was that?” I’m also a big fan of vocal snippets and short phrases.
5. When you sit down to make a track, what does your workflow look like from idea to finished song?
I typically begin with a kick and bassline to get the vibe going. Then I’ll either play with some of my synthesizers or drum machine. It depends on the style of track I’m going for. Usually the main elements come first and the rest fall into place. When I’m in the studio, I use a combination of hardware synths and plugins inside of Ableton Live. Before I officially release my tracks, I always test them in the car and in DJ sets.
6. Your music has landed on respected labels. What have those label experiences meant for your growth?
Getting signed to a label requires that you’re up to par with their catalog of releases in terms of creativity and quality. It makes you push yourself to work your hardest. Labels want your best work, so you have to give it to them. It’s always a good feeling when a label accepts your demo. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and approval.
7. You founded WENN Recordings. What inspired you to start your own label?
I first started my label to create a platform to release my own music. A lot of record labels have long lists of upcoming releases so it can take months to a year or more until it actually comes out. By starting my own label, that gave me the chance to put my music out faster and to create a platform open to supporting other artists with the same musical vision.
8. As a label owner, what are you looking for when reviewing demos from other artists?
First and foremost, good techno music. It also has to have a similar vibe to the label’s releases. WENN Recordings is a peak time techno label so artists should only be sending music that fits the vibe. For example, dark, groovy, driving techno generally around 135BPM. When submitting music to record labels, it is important to listen to their catalog and recent releases to make sure it fits
9. On stage, you’re known for tight transitions and crowd control. What’s going through your head when reading the crowd?
The biggest and most obvious thought is always ‘Is the crowd enjoying it?’ When you’re playing, you can feel the energy of the crowd and let that guide how you shape your set. It’s good to scan the crowd to see how they’re reacting. Are they dancing? Do they want more energy? Or maybe a vibe change? I’m also thinking about what tracks to play next. It’s important to play songs that work well with each other to keep the momentum.
10. Can you share one of your most memorable sets or crowd moments?
I was playing one night at Stella Blues in New Haven and the whole room was jumpin’ from the beginning to the end of my set. It was 2023 and one of my first times playing peak time techno as the headliner. The venue was packed with people and everybody was digging the music. I’ve played tech house and house there countless times, but this one techno set was for sure one for the books.
11. How did hosting “The Techno Takeover” on WPKN change how you curate music?
That played a huge role in how I curate music and is one of the significant things that made me the DJ I am today. I hosted my radio show for 4 years every week from 2am-6am. It was a Tuesday morning so bringing in guest DJs was difficult. A lot of times I would end up playing for 4 hours like I was playing a set at a venue. Starting with opening tracks, peaking in the middle towards the end, then bringing the energy back down for the last hour or so. It’s like storytelling with music, especially when you play longer sets. Playing the right tracks at the right time is crucial for a DJ set to flow. Hosting the show also helped me learn how to really ‘dig’ or search for music. Since I was hosting every week, I had to keep it fresh and constantly build my library.
12. What challenge have you had to overcome as an artist?
Getting past the opener DJ stage and building credibility. When you first start playing gigs, you normally get opening sets but that doesn’t necessarily give you experience of playing for a crowd. It’s a rite of passage as a DJ, but breaking through that point can be tricky. Even though I had years of practice and experience, I was still only getting the first time slot when I first started playing gigs
13. How do you keep sharpening your sound with each release?
Every time I’m in the studio, I try to improve my production skills in some form. Whether I’m improving my sound design, song structure, or just the overall final production. I try to learn something and grow with every track I make.
14. What do people not see about Connecticut’s techno and underground scene?
Although we’re not known for our nightlife, we do have a diverse and dedicated scene. You can find everything from deep house to hard techno pretty much every weekend. There’s a lot of places throughout CT that have house and techno nights with a lot of local support too. It’s important to go out and experience the different venues, promoters, and parties. This helps the CT scene thrive, and exposes you to new people and dance floors.
15. What impact do you want to leave on the scene and future artists?
I’d like to leave a positive impact on the scene by creating and playing music that people can connect with and by building a supportive record label for other producers. I believe it’s important to encourage others and motivate your peers. If someone is new to all of this, be humble and teach them something. It can really help them out.
16. What’s coming next for you and WENN Recordings?
I have a new single coming out on Future Techno Records in March 2026, which I’m excited about. I’m also planning to expand WENN Recordings in the new year and start signing new techno artists to the label.
17. Any message you want to send to the Connecticut community?
Much love and thanks for reading! Follow me on social media for updates and announcements. I hope to see you soon on the dancefloor.
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