Spotlight on Hannah Sylvie Buening: A Profile

Spotlight on HannahLuyah: A Key Player in Electronic Music and Advocacy

Hannah Sylvie Buening, known artistically as HannahLuyah, is making waves in the global electronic music scene as both a vibrant artist and the Communications Manager at the Association for Electronic Music (AFEM). With her roots in New York City and her current base in Barcelona, Hannah has carved a niche for herself as a DJ, creative director, and co-founder of the Funk It! collective. Her transformation of dance floors with bass-driven rhythms and dreamy melodies has already taken her across continents—spanning Spain, the U.S., the U.K., and Japan.

Her Role at AFEM

In her position as Communications Manager, Hannah’s mission is clear: to amplify the voices of numerous organizations within the electronic music ecosystem. “AFEM represents so many organizations,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of uniting those voices into a cohesive message. Her approach is rooted in active listening, aiming to find common ground among members and identify the issues that truly matter. This not only catalyzes change within the industry but also contributes to broader cultural and societal shifts.

Supporting Artists for a Sustainable Future

Navigating the music industry can be daunting for many artists, including Hannah herself. She recounts her journey entering a space that often feels like a “big pond” with small fish. Through AFEM’s educational programs and initiatives, she has gained valuable resources that help artists like her navigate the complexities of the industry, making her feel more confident in her creative path. “Thanks to AFEM’s advocacy,” Hannah says, “I feel more confident navigating those changes and growing with them.”

Current Topics in Electronic Music

Hannah identifies some critical issues that are shaping the electronic music landscape today. Prominent among them are fair artist rights and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI). The electronic music scene relies heavily on artists, and initiatives like AFEM’s Get Played, Get Paid campaign aim to protect their rights and livelihoods. “Without the artists who create it, the electronic music industry literally cannot run,” she asserts.

On a more personal level, Hannah is passionate about gender equity, diverse representation, and supporting live event promoters. As a queer woman, she has faced challenges in nightlife spaces—ranging from harassment to not feeling supported. AFEM’s initiatives, including amplifying the #MeToo movement and advocating for marginalized voices, resonate deeply with her. “There’s always more work to be done, but I’m glad to see things moving in a positive direction,” she says.

The Importance of Live Events

As a grassroots promoter, Hannah understands that live events are the backbone of electronic music culture. She believes these communal spaces allow for artistic experimentation and innovation. Through AFEM’s newly formed Grassroots Promoter Good Practice Guide, there’s a clearer avenue for supporting smaller local promoters who play a vital role in nurturing diverse scenes.

From New York to Barcelona: A Cultural Shift

Hannah’s upbringing in New York City greatly influenced her musical journey. “You could hear every style of music, discover niche sub-genres that mixed and influenced each other,” she reflects. When she transitioned to Barcelona, her understanding of electronic music deepened, allowing her to discover different influences—from acid house to Latin-infused rhythms. This cultural shift has enriched her musical palette, leading to sets that tell a cohesive story.

Blending Styles in DJ Sets

Hannah’s approach to DJing is unique; she threads together diverse styles—from techno to indie-dance—by following the mood of the crowd rather than strictly adhering to genre boundaries. “Different subgenres have more in common than they do different,” she notes, allowing her to take listeners on an unexpected and engaging journey.

When it comes to preparing her sets, Hannah leads with improvisation. While she creates a playlist of potential tracks, the order remains fluid. “It’s more of a comfort feeling,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of being able to quickly adapt to the crowd’s energy.

The Creative Director Role

Beyond her work as a DJ, Hannah serves as a creative director, which provides her with a broader perspective of what different events offer. She analyzes various aspects—from audience identity to brand image—helping her connect deeply with the essence of a project. “All creativity is interlinked,” she says, illustrating how storytelling through music enhances fan loyalty and cultural movements.

Funk It! Collective: A New Wave

Co-founding Funk It! in Barcelona shaped Hannah’s mission around freedom and self-expression. Originally born out of a residency at a beach bar, it has evolved into a welcome haven for revelers seeking genuine connections. “It’s about letting yourself go and being in the moment,” she explains, emphasizing the collective’s aim to create an inclusive atmosphere within a segmented local music scene.

The Dancefloor Experience Across Cultures

Hannah’s international performances have exposed her to various dancefloor energies. In the U.K., she observes people letting loose with unabashed enthusiasm, while in Japan, the nightlife offers a contrast of vibrant liberation. In the U.S., she appreciates the receptiveness to diverse sounds, while in Spain, late-night culture reigns, with conversation often spilling over onto the dancefloor.

Looking Ahead: Artistic Growth and Advocacy

As Hannah envisions her future, she sees a mix of international gigs and a budding production journey where she hopes to explore remixing and original compositions. Balancing her artistic pursuits with her advocacy work at AFEM, she aims to connect her policy background with the music industry, impacting structural change on various levels.

Through her multifaceted career, HannahLuyah embodies the spirit of innovation and advocacy within the electronic music scene, serving as an inspiring figure for both artists and audiences alike.