Don Diablo (real name — Don Pepijn Schipper) is a world-renowned Dutch DJ, producer, songwriter, and one of the pioneers of the future house genre. He is known for his distinctive sound that blends elements of future house, electro house, progressive house, and pop music, as well as for his innovative approach to show visuals, digital art, and NFT projects. Don Diablo is not only an artist but also a visionary leader who inspires a new generation of producers, designers, and electronic-music fans.
Early Life
Don Pepijn Schipper was born on February 27, 1980 in Coevorden, the Netherlands. From an early age, he was fascinated by music, drawing inspiration from Daft Punk, The Chemical Brothers, and Fatboy Slim. As a teenager, he began experimenting with samples, recording his first tracks in a home studio, and soon started performing at local parties and clubs.
In his youth, Don showed interest not only in DJing but also in graphic design and filmmaking — skills that later shaped his visual aesthetics and signature Hexagon style.
Career Beginnings
In the early 2000s, Don Diablo signed his first contracts with European labels and began releasing club tracks. His early works combined house, techno, and breakbeat elements. Gradually, he gained recognition across Europe, and his remixes for artists such as Kylie Minogue, Madonna, and Coldplay established him as a sought-after producer.
His breakthrough came with the track "Hooligans" (with Example), released in 2009. The song entered the UK charts and became one of Don’s first major international successes.
Shaping His Style and Rise in Future House
By the mid-2010s, Don Diablo had become one of the pioneers of future house. His tracks stood out for their deep basslines, melodic synths, and emotional vocals. This unique sound quickly captured the attention of listeners around the world.
Key hits from this period include:
- "Starlight (Could You Be Mine)" (feat. Matt Nash)
- "On My Mind"
- "Cutting Shapes"
- "Save A Little Love"
- "AnyTime"
These tracks became Don Diablo’s signature sound and defined the direction for an entire generation of future-house producers.
Hexagon Label
In 2015, Don founded his own label, Hexagon — not just a music brand but a complete universe with a recognizable logo, aesthetic, and a mission to support emerging artists. Hexagon releases feature both Don Diablo’s tracks and those of new-generation producers, including King Arthur, RetroVision, Dropgun, Keanu Silva, and many others.
The label has been repeatedly recognized by Beatport as one of the most successful independent EDM labels of the year.
Hexagon Radio
That same year, 2015, Don Diablo launched his own radio show, Hexagon Radio — a weekly program where he showcases the best tracks of the week, exclusive Hexagon premieres, and original remixes. The show is broadcast in more than 50 countries and is regarded as one of the most influential in the world of future house.
In Ukraine and worldwide, Hexagon Radio can be heard every week on Minatrix.FM, where fans receive the freshest tracks and inspiration directly from Don Diablo.
Popular Albums
- "Future" (2018): Don Diablo’s first full-length album, featuring hits like "People Say", "Take Her Place" (feat. ARIZONA), and "Give Me Love". The album reflects the artist’s belief in a brighter future.
- "Forever" (2021): a more personal, cinematic record dedicated to his parents’ memory, including "Hot Air Balloon", "Survive" (feat. Emeli Sandé & Gucci Mane), and "Into the Unknown".
Performances and Festivals
Don Diablo is a regular headliner at the world’s biggest festivals, including:
- Tomorrowland
- Ultra Music Festival
- EDC Las Vegas
- Creamfields
- AMF (Amsterdam Music Festival)
His shows are more than DJ sets — they are full audiovisual experiences featuring 3D graphics, augmented reality, and interactive elements.
Collaborations and Remixes
Don Diablo has collaborated with and remixed artists such as:
- Jessie J — "Brave"
- Calvin Harris
- Ed Sheeran
- Rihanna
- Martin Garrix
- David Guetta
His remixes frequently appear on official charts and receive radio airplay around the globe.
Innovation, NFTs and Art
Don Diablo is among the first DJs to integrate NFT technology into his creative work. His project HEXHIBITION merges music, 3D art, and virtual galleries. In 2021, his NFT video artwork “Destination Hexagonia” sold for a record-breaking sum on SuperRare.
The artist actively explores AR/VR technologies and his own metaverse, Hexagonia, where fans can interact with music and visual content in real time.
Social and Environmental Initiatives
Don Diablo is well known for his social engagement. Through the Hexagonia Foundation, he supports initiatives focused on ecology, ocean protection, and music education. He also collaborates with UNICEF and climate-action organizations.
Awards and Recognition
- Regular entrant and finalist in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs, reaching #6 in 2019;
- EMPO Award for Best Future House DJ;
- Named by Beatport and 1001Tracklists as one of the most-played artists of the decade.
Recent Activities
Today, Don Diablo continues touring worldwide, developing his Hexagon label, and releasing music that blends club energy with uplifting messages. He actively collaborates with visual artists, designers, and tech startups, bridging the worlds of music, art, and innovation.
Legacy
Don Diablo stands as a symbol of progress and futurism in electronic music. His contribution to the future-house genre, support for young artists, innovations in digital art, and social initiatives have made him a key figure in modern EDM culture. His radio show, Hexagon Radio, broadcast on Minatrix.FM, unites listeners around the world, bringing them inspiration, energy, and faith in the future.
