Published June of 2023
We had the opportunity to chat with long-time US DJ and Trance legend Gary Chartier, better known as Ganesh, to ask him about his journey in Trance dating back to the 90s when it was establishing roots in the United States as well as behind the reigns one of the fast-growing Hard Trance labels.
Disclaimer: The words from the interviewee are their own words. We are not responsible for any language they may use.
How did you get started in DJing and where the name “Ganesh” came from?
Music has always been a central force in my life. I got my first piece of vinyl when I was 7 and that was it, no turning back! As for the name, I started playing a lot of Goa trance way back and it just stuck. Ganesh is known as the “Remover of Obstacles” so it seemed like the perfect way to start my path.
How was growing up in the “rave culture” as it began in the 90s shaped who are 30 years later?
It’s interesting to see how it’s changed. I never expected to be where I am today and I’m nothing but grateful. I started in the underground and it’s important, I think, to have that perspective. To know what it was and how it’s evolved. It gives you an appreciation for what you had and how magical it was. That second “Summer of Love” in ’96 was such a unique time. It was still pure. I can’t imagine my life without those experiences.
What were your favourite pieces of vinyl to play in the 90s and has that influenced any tracks you’ve produced as an artist?
“Access” by Misjah and Tim is still one of my favourites. It’s such a ridiculously good track. No melody, just pure banging mayhem. It’s that kind of track I aspire to. Wink – “Higher State of Consciousness” was one of those tracks that was inescapable. You’ll hear it 3 times a night and it still had the same impact. The breakbeat and funky acid definitely inspire me. I use an “Amen” style break in almost everything.
Where did the idea of “HQ” start and how has that evolved since its inception?
Pete Delete and I had a conversation on Facebook and just started talking about the sounds of the moment and what we thought was missing and how we wanted to bring back groove and just banging club music with more influence on the energy that overly produced trance. We brought Amanda Vanderhayden on board initially as a graphic artist but quickly realized there was far more that she was capable of. Since then we’ve launched 2 sublabels; HQ Noir, our peak time techno imprint and HQ Ascension, for uplift and prog. Now we’ve started HQ Booking for artist management. It’s a mini-empire!
What’s the future for Gary Chartier as an artist, producer, and head of HQ?
God willing, I’m hoping to dedicate more time to fusing the modern peak-time techno sound into my production. Blurring genres and trying new things. That ethos is true for me in every aspect of my career and HQ.