HELANG: The Sweet Spot Between House and Techno
The Chinese-American producer opens up about her breakthrough summer, AETERNA Records debut, and forging her own path in electronic music.
Chinese-American powerhouse HELANG has been on an undeniable trajectory this year, from commanding performances at Kappa FuturFestival to opening for Charlotte de Witte in New York. Her latest single “Don’t Depend” arrives via MEDUZA's prestigious AETERNA Records, marking another significant milestone for the artist who has consistently championed authenticity and self-reliance throughout her meteoric rise.
Since launching her own Dauntless Records in 2023, HELANG has maintained unwavering commitment to her artistic vision while earning support from industry titans including Maceo Plex, Richie Hawtin, and Nicole Moudaber. Her fearless productions blend sultry minimalism with raw power, creating an uncompromising sound that resonates deeply across dance floors worldwide.
HELANG sat down with Beatportal to discuss the personal story behind “Don’t Depend,” how she balances contrasting sonic elements, and why inclusivity remains at the heart of her mission.
Q: Your new single “Don’t Depend” lands on MEDUZA's AETERNA Records. How did this collaboration come about?
HELANG: I opened for Meduza’s show at Brooklyn Storehouse in September last year and met Matt from Meduza for the first time. Fast forward to spring this year, our mutual friend David really loved one of my unreleased tracks and sent it to Matt—and the rest is history. It’s such an honor to be on the roster because I have been a big fan of Meduza’s work for as long as I can remember. Even though their label is relatively new, they’ve released nothing but bangers featuring artists like Argy, Artbat, Genesi, Miss Monique, and more. This definitely marks a significant moment for me in terms of where I’m at in my music career and where I’m headed.
Q: The title “Don’t Depend” embodies themes of self-reliance. What inspired this track?
HELANG: This song was inspired by my experience from a first date. When we were at dinner, I was telling him how I earned a residency at an on-campus club my senior year of college. He said, “Damn, you’re so badass,” and I replied, “I know.” After he ghosted me, I turned that short conversation into the main lyrics of the song and decided to make it a driving, synth-heavy anthem with progressive house and techno roots embedded.
Q: This summer has seen you go between Kappa FuturFestival and opening for Charlotte de Witte. How have these experiences influenced your production approach?
HELANG: Performing at different venues and slots—from an opening slot midday at a massive festival to a closing set for a major headliner—made me realize that the art of DJing is not only about playing what you resonate with, but also playing music that suits the atmosphere and makes people dance. For instance, those two gigs required very different playlists, but I was still able to play my own music at both. That opened my eyes as both a DJ and producer, because while people may try to pigeonhole artists, I see it as an opportunity to showcase my dynamic range in the studio and on stage.
Q: How do you balance the sultry minimalism and raw power in your sound, and what role does your Chinese-American heritage play?
HELANG: I’ve been balancing these contrasting elements since I started releasing music two years ago. I’ve always found beauty in raw emotions but also in fun, upbeat elements of dance music. Right now, I’m shaping a defining sound—melodic and emotional breakdowns leading into powerful, grungy drops. My Chinese-American background has molded me into a fearless go-getter, which pushes me to take risks in defining both my sound and personality.
Q: You’ve released on HILOMATIK, HE.SHE.THEY. Records, and now AETERNA this year. How do you choose which tracks suit which labels?
HELANG: With HE.SHE.THEY., it was definitely an experimental but down-to-earth EP, and the label loved it—we had a smash success with the rollout. For HILOMATIK, I decided to speed things up with a euphoric, hard-hitting groover for the dance floors. After trying that peak-time sound, I realized it wasn’t fully me and brought it back down for AETERNA. That’s where I see myself staying—it feels like the sweet spot between house and techno. From here, the possibilities are limitless.
Q: What specific production techniques did you use to achieve the driving, hypnotic quality in “Don’t Depend”?
HELANG: The track has a techno driving bassline with progressive/tech house synth stabs. It’s very powerful in headphones and on a club system—I tested it many times. It’s uncompromising because the elements say it all: emotional, euphoric, yet energetic.
Q: You’ve mentioned living “through a lens of discovery, adventure, and seduction.” How do these themes guide your artistic direction?
HELANG: Life is an adventure. I find inspiration in the unknown and in the art of seduction—not just sexual, but also about capturing people’s attention with your art. With my music, I let people interpret it however they want, but ultimately it’s there to make them dance and remind them that authentic self-expression is the point of everything.
Q: How has sharing stages with artists like Maceo Plex and Eric Prydz shaped your confidence?
HELANG: I’ve gained so much inspiration from those artists. Each is unique in their own way, and that’s the beauty of it. Beyond their artistry, getting to know them as people taught me that paving your way in the industry is about maintaining relationships while staying true to yourself and being consistent in your efforts.
Q: Your visual aesthetic has become as recognizable as your sound. How important is the complete artistic package?
HELANG: It all comes together as one, so for me it’s super important to establish both sonically and visually. I’ve always loved fashion, so I always have a certain look when I perform. Usually short shorts or mini skirts with knee-high tights or boots—it’s “cute yet spicy,” which compliments my artistic choices in music perfectly.
Q: Your Dauntless Records showcases feature all-female lineups. How does running your own label influence your perspective as an artist?
HELANG: For me, it’s about delivering good music and experiences to like-minded individuals who crave the unknown—new sounds, new people, new energy. I love elevating local up-and-coming talent because collectively introducing good music to the community is what it’s all about.
Q: What advice would you give to emerging producers who might feel like they don’t fit the traditional industry mold?
HELANG: Have a strong mentality. Train yourself to have thick skin and don’t be afraid of rejection. This industry is cutthroat and male-dominated, so believing in yourself—even when you feel ridiculous—is absolutely essential.
Q: What can fans expect from HELANG in the coming months?
HELANG: I have a remix coming out on a massive label this fall/winter, along with more self-releases on Dauntless Records. It’s going to be exciting!
