Biography
Helmut Hoinkis, a prominent figure in the electronic music scene, hails from Germany, where he found his passion for music at a young age. Growing up during the rise of electronic and techno music in the 1980s, Hoinkis was heavily influenced by the burgeoning synthetic sounds that defined that era. His musical journey began in the early 1980s, initially dabbling in various forms of music before deciding to focus on electronic productions. His unique blend of styles and innovative approaches to sound would set the foundation for his prolific career in the decades to come. Throughout his career, Hoinkis has been a vital member of several noteworthy bands that have contributed to the electronic music landscape. He started his journey with Boytronic, a group known for their synth-pop sound and catchy melodies. Following this, he collaborated with Various Items, where experimentation with sound became key. Hoinkis gained further prominence with U96, a project that brought him considerable recognition thanks to its dance-driven hits. Additionally, his involvement with bands like United Colours and Beats 4 U expanded his repertoire, showcasing his versatility and expertise in electronic music. This journey saw him engage in a variety of projects ranging from the avant-garde beats of Polyphonic to the playful vibes of Sex Shop Boys and the energetic performances of Space Club. Musically, Hoinkis is recognized for his innovative approach to electronic music, blending elements of techno, eurodance, and synth-pop. His sound designs often feature lush synths, driving bass lines, and infectious rhythms that engage listeners. Helmut has a penchant for using high-quality gear in his productions and performances, favoring signature pieces that allow for a wide range of sounds. Some of his preferred instruments include the 1983 Roland Juno-60 for its rich tonal quality and the Korg MS-20 for its distinctive filter sound. He relies on a 1965 Fender Jazzmaster for its versatile range in guitar sounds. His live performances often feature a combination of the Akai MPC Live for beat-making and the Moog Subsequent 37 for bass lines, which help create his energetic soundscapes. Hoinkis' legacy in the electronic music scene is marked by his ability to push boundaries and influence upcoming artists in the genre. His contributions have paved the way for a new generation of electronic musicians by combining established sounds with innovative production techniques. As of 2023, Hoinkis continues to make waves in the music industry, consistently producing new tracks and collaborating with other artists while maintaining a strong presence on numerous electronic music platforms. His work continues to resonate with fans of electronic music, keeping his influence alive for future generations.
Roles
Vocalist, Producer, Songwriter
Band History
Boytronic, Polyphonic, Sex Shop Boys, Space Club, Terra del Sol, Extravaganza, Matiz, United Colours, Beats 4 U, Various Items, U96
Signature Gear
Guitars: 1965 Fender Jazzmaster
Amps: Mesa/Boogie Mark IV
Basses: 1983 Roland Juno-60
Microphones: Shure SM58
Cabinets: Marshall 1960A 4x12
Strings: Ernie Ball Regular Slinky .010 - .046
Picks: Dunlop Nylon .73mm
Keys: Korg MS-20
Electronic: Akai MPC Live