Coordinates Feat. Christian Smith
Christian Smith in Coordinates: 5 Tracks That Defined His Sound
Christian Smith is a leading techno artist known for his bold, groovy sound and a career spanning over two decades. Raised in Frankfurt, Germany, and later based in São Paulo, he built a global following as both a DJ and producer. In 1995, he founded Tronic, one of Beatport’s top-selling techno labels, featuring artists like ANNA and Enrico Sangiuliano. Tronic also runs a globally syndicated radio show nearing 600 episodes. His music consistently tops charts, with his latest EP hitting #1 on Beatport in 2024. Beyond production, he’s hosted Tronic events worldwide and successfully launched a branded Ibiza residency at Eden, cementing his influence in the techno scene.
As a certified veteran and titan of techno, Christian Smith shares the 5 tracks that guided his sound in this installment of 6AM Coordinates.
Kraftwerk "Numbers"
I always loved kraftwerk since my childhood, but this track is just another level. I remember seeing them play live in Detroit in 1998 when I was there for a gig a motor. They started the show with numbers. It was a real goosebump moment. Also seeing all of the detroit legends there at the same time was really special.
Manuel Göttsching "E2-E4"
This track is from 1982 and is about 1 hr long. It's hard to explain in words, but this track is just magical. It's very minimal and simple, yet does not get boring at all for 1 hr. Maybe the best loop ever?
Kevin Saunderson "Rock to the Beat"
A dystopian techno classic. This track has darkness written all over it. I love this track! John and I were lucky to be asked us this tune about 15 years ago. We did a great job, but the original still has the most real feeling for me.
Vainqueur "Lyot" (Maurizio Mix)
From the early days of dub techno, this track is absolutely legendary! Maurizio is a genius. He has made so many cool dubby projects in the early 90's. The melodic hook in 'lyot' is nothing but magical! It feels as if this track was made for big and rough warehouse raves!
Joey Beltram "Drome"
Melodic techno for the techno og. Simple, groovy, and hypnotic! Joey is without a doubt one of my biggest techno influences. It felt like he could do no wrong in the early 90's.
Check out how these coordinates of inspirations converge on the path to his latest collaboration with John Selway, 'Jumbo', out on now via Tronic Records.