Grace Dahl: Amsterdam vs. Berlin and Her Take on ‘TikTok Techno’
- Filip
- Mar 10
- 4 min read
When you think of the techno scene, the names Amsterdam and Berlin inevitably come to mind. Both cities have long been seen as pillars of underground electronic music, each offering a distinct energy that has shaped the genre over the years.
Known for her powerful, hypnotic techno, Grace Dahl is no stranger to the intricacies of the techno scene. From her formative years as a teenager to where she is today, Grace has grown into an artist with an abundance of self-confidence, attitude, and a drive to make her mark in the global techno landscape. In this conversation, we dive into the nuances of her journey, the contrasting scenes of Amsterdam and Berlin, and her take on the rapid growth of the scene—especially when it comes to the rise of ‘TikTok techno’ and the responsibility that comes with being a DJ.
From Teenager to Techno Powerhouse: The Transformation of Grace Dahl
The Grace Dahl you see today wasn’t always the same. Reflecting on her teenage years, she acknowledges the personal transformation that’s taken place—not just musically, but emotionally and mentally. “I used to be much more reserved,” she says. “It’s taken time, but now I have more confidence in myself, my sound, and my presence in the scene.”
It’s clear that this self-assurance has been integral to Grace's rise within the techno world. Her signature sound, marked by relentless hypnotic grooves, has earned her recognition, but it’s the attitude she’s brought to her sets and the industry that’s truly set her apart.
The transition from a more insecure teenager to a self-assured artist speaks volumes about the power of growth in the electronic music world. Grace reflects on how her evolution mirrors the changes she’s witnessed in the techno scene over the years, with a particular focus on how the pressure to conform has shifted in both Amsterdam and Berlin.
Amsterdam vs. Berlin: Two Cities, One Scene, Different Vibes
When comparing Amsterdam and Berlin, the differences between these two techno capitals are striking. Grace, who has made both cities a part of her journey, is in the perfect position to provide an insider’s perspective. “Berlin is always going to be the birthplace of techno,” she says, acknowledging the city’s storied history and iconic venues that continue to shape the genre. Berlin is gritty, experimental, and brimming with underground energy. But, in Grace’s view, Amsterdam is slowly growing its own distinct identity. “Amsterdam’s scene is a lot younger, a bit fresher, and there’s a sense of curiosity in the air,” she adds.
Both cities have their own unique vibe, and for Grace, moving between them has taught her a lot about herself and her place within the broader techno movement. The scene in Amsterdam is undeniably growing at a fast pace, but the question remains: how will it evolve in the face of rapid change? As the techno scene expands globally, both Amsterdam and Berlin must reckon with what it means to remain true to the roots of techno while also embracing the changing dynamics of the culture.
The Rise of ‘TikTok Techno’: A Blessing or a Curse?
One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation with Grace Dahl centers around the rise of ‘TikTok techno’—the phenomenon of short, catchy techno tracks gaining massive traction on the social media platform. With TikTok now playing a huge role in the discovery of new music, DJs and producers are seeing their tracks go viral in ways that weren’t possible before. But what does this mean for the integrity of the scene?
“For me, TikTok has definitely brought a new dimension to music discovery,” Grace explains. “But the focus on short clips and viral content can sometimes trivialize the depth of techno.” The short-form nature of TikTok doesn’t allow for the nuance or storytelling that defines techno as a genre. Grace worries that the shift towards more commercialized and formulaic sounds could dilute the authenticity of the scene in the long run.
This concern isn’t just about artistic integrity, though—it’s about the impact on the DJ's role in the scene. “DJs are often seen as the face of the scene, but what responsibility do we have?” Grace asks. “When we’re playing to big crowds, how much do we influence what people listen to and how they perceive techno?” For Grace, being a DJ isn’t just about playing the hits—it’s about fostering a deeper connection with the audience and preserving the roots of the genre.
The Responsibility of the DJ: Are We More Than Just Party-Starters?
Grace Dahl’s perspective on DJing is refreshing—she doesn’t see herself merely as someone who entertains. She believes that the role of a DJ is far more complex, with a certain level of responsibility to the community. “It’s about guiding the audience through a journey,” she says. “It’s about creating a vibe that’s immersive, where people can lose themselves in the music.”
This sense of responsibility also extends to how DJs represent the genre. In a time when techno is being thrust into the mainstream by platforms like TikTok, the question remains: is the true spirit of the music still intact, or is it being watered down for the sake of viral moments?
Grace stresses that it’s up to DJs like her to keep the essence of techno alive, even in an age of instant gratification and fast-paced trends. “As DJs, we have the power to shape what people hear and how they experience the music. And that’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly,” she says.
Conclusion: The Future of Techno and Grace Dahl’s Role in It
As the techno scene continues to evolve and adapt to the digital age, artists like Grace Dahl remain key players in preserving the genre’s roots. Her unapologetic approach to music, her strong self-confidence, and her commitment to a deeper connection with the audience make her an integral part of the movement’s future.
For Grace, the evolution of techno is both exciting and challenging. But one thing is clear: whether in Amsterdam, Berlin, or anywhere in between, techno will always have a place for artists who stay true to the art form—and Grace Dahl is undoubtedly one of them.