We caught up with global icon Haddaway, who defined an era with his signature sound and emotive songwriting. After more than three decades after his breakout hit ‘What Is Love’, Haddaway continues to reinvent his sound and style, while he’s a celebrated performer known for his powerful vocals. In our exclusive interview with Haddaway, he talks about his latest single ‘The Sun’ from his upcoming album, the impact of his music, lessons he’s learnt and more.
Reflecting on your career so far, are there any moments that still surprise you when you think about how far your music has traveled?
It’s not a surprise – it’s an investment, nothing happens unless you work hard. I wake up in the morning at 3-4 AM while others celebrate, I have to invest in my career, I see my job as a job, not as a 5 minutes of luck. 
What inspired your latest single ‘The Sun’?
The beautiful life – the sunshine – happy people and no politics, no hunger.
Stream ‘The Sun’ via PLAYY. Music below:
You’re also gearing up to release a brand new album. How would you describe the overall mood or message of this new album?
Positive, relaxing, many sides but me.
Is there one track on the album that feels particularly personal to you?
‘Kind of love’
How has the way you write or record music evolved in recent years?
I try my best to stick to the ways that got me here. I don’t want to do anything different than I have done in the past, it has always worked for me.
Are there any lessons from the early days of your career that still guide you today?
Lesson number 1 – believe in yourself.
Lesson number 2 – there is no such thing as a problem you can not fix.
Lesson number 3 – you are not in this alone.
Lesson number 4 – don’t forget the other 3 lessons.
Are there any artists or genres outside of dance music that continue to influence you?
One stop behind the ideology of dance music – I do not mind dance – but I have many sides of my music – and it’s a shame it’s put constantly into dance music. I stick to my guns – I grew up with Prince, Led Zepelin, Earth Wind and Fire, Journey, Foreigner, Queen, David Bowie, Michael Jackson. And this is how I try to make my music, all sides.
After decades of performing, what still excites you the most about getting on stage?
It’s kind of like pay back. You pay back people for the support. They want to see you, they want to hear you. You want to see them and hear them. It’s definitely complimenting each other. LIVE is everything !
Is there one specific fan interaction that you’ll never forget?
No, too many.
How do you personally define success at this stage of your career?
Every man has a different definition of success. Success for me is being healthy, having a family, having enough money that you do not need to worry about the bills and all around happiness.
What else does 2026 hold for you? Is there anything your fans should keep an eye out for?
For me. Just keep an eye out for me! I’m coming!
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