Hopium: Interview
Josh aka Hopium, he’s Australian but London based and first attracted attention when his 2014 release ‘Dreamers’ was sampled by Wiz Khalifa & Charlie Puth in their smash hit ‘See You Again’. He has been working with some incredible talent such as Levi Lennox and Snakehips for releases coming out later in the year. His first single on Warner Bros was released in February called ‘Leave’. The lyrics are incredibly deep and personal, written shortly after a toxic heartbreak and discusses topics of manipulation and abuse – all written from the ex’s point of view.
What’s the meaning behind Hopium and how did the project start?
It means addicted to hope. Things will always get better, even if they kind of suck right now.
What kind of music do you play? What best describes your sound?
I try not to describe it- it’s electronic mostly but that could change at any moment…
What would you say is your biggest influence?
Definitely life.
You signed to Warner Bros Records earlier this year, what does it feel like to be signed to such a pivotal record label?
It feels pivotal! It all comes down to the music, but I’m excited to be working with them.
Your latest single ‘Sunglasses’ was inspired by the vulnerability that you felt when leaving a club, why was that moment so impactful?
I’d been travelling alone for a few months, had just been through a breakup and was generally feeling a bit isolated. I was reaching out to the world but at the same time I was guarded. I guess it worked that moment was symbolically accurate to how I was feeling in general.
Where’s the most unique festival you’ve been to and what was so special?
Meredith music festival outside of Melbourne. There’s only one stage, it’s not that big and even though it’s so well organised it doesn’t feel corporate. Some of my best memories.
Where’s your hometown?
Adelaide, South Australia. Very much the middle of nowhere.
What’s your favourite local bar/restaurant/bar/club?
This is such a hipstery response but Berghain, Berlin. I haven’t had any experiences that top that.
Where do you currently live?
London!
Since moving to London, how do you feel the city has inspired your sound and lyrics?
It hasn’t directly I don’t think. I always know what lyrics resonate with me and that hasn’t changed so much. Sound-wise, I listen to music from all over. London has influenced me as a person and creator though – I think it’s given me perspective. Australia is pretty isolated, if anywhere can be in 2018.
Where’s your favourite clubbing destination?
Berlin for sure.
Is there something you can’t travel without?
My teddy bear. Boris comes with me everywhere.
What travel destination would you recommend our readers add to their bucket list?
China! I went twice to visit a friend and to be fair I probably got a better experience because he could speak the language, but it was totally not what I expected. Go to Beijing, Hangzhou, Tianducheng (the super weird fake Paris).
What do you have lined up for the rest of the year?
Releasing more music! I just got back from LA writing, so I have tons to work on. I also want to play some of my first live shows for this project later this year.
More like thisRelated
Discover Pondicherry, France in India
Pondicherry, India – The French Riviera of the East
Discover...
Prince William Visits Sheffield to Promote Homelessness Project
Prince William Visits Sheffield to Promote Homelessness Project and...
Fremantle BeerFest 2025
Fremantle BeerFest 2025: WA’s Ultimate Craft Beer Celebration
Fremantle BeerFest...
Seven Days in Sri Lanka: Perfect for Russian and Chinese Tourists
Experience Seven Days Tour in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, a...
TSMIT increase: How it affect Sponsored Workers
TSMIT Increase 2025: What Employers and Sponsored Workers Need...
Seven Seas Worldwide MoveCube – Your Hassle-Free International Shipping Solution
Simplify Your Move Abroad With the International MoveCube by...