As Editor-in-Chief of DJ Mag, Carl Loben chronicles electronic music’s evolution from underground movement to global phenomenon. His work prioritizes:
“Great dance journalism makes you hear familiar tracks in new ways – that’s my daily mission.”
“House music’s heartbeat lies in its ability to reinvent while staying true to its Chicago roots – that tension fuels endless creative possibilities.”
Loben’s 2023 deep dive into the 1988 house anthem reveals why this track became a civil rights-era rallying cry. Through interviews with Joe Smooth and NYC club veterans, he traces how the song’s gospel-infused hope resonated through AIDS crisis raves and Black Lives Matter protests. The piece stands as both music criticism and social history, exemplifying Loben’s ability to contextualize dance culture within broader societal shifts.
In this 2022 podcast episode, Loben demystifies music journalism for emerging artists. He emphasizes storytelling over technical specs, advising producers to “lead with the human angle – why this track matters to you at 3 AM in the studio.” The discussion reveals his editorial priorities: authenticity, cultural impact, and historical awareness.
Loben’s 2024 Bluesky thread spotlighted overlooked New York producers shaping contemporary house. Combining archival research with fresh interviews, he mapped connections between 90s Shelter regulars and today’s queer underground parties. The interactive format showcased his adaptability in digital storytelling.
Loben prioritizes stories that connect music to broader movements. A successful 2023 pitch about Berghain’s COVID recovery tied door policy changes to Berlin’s housing crisis. When approaching him, highlight how your subject reflects or challenges industry norms.
His Westway Records retrospective demonstrated how niche labels influence mainstream trends. Pitches should identify underappreciated lineage – e.g., how Jersey club samples inform hyperpop.
While covering major festivals, Loben consistently amplifies regional collectives. The 2024 Bristol bass scene profile succeeded by mapping DIY venues’ post-Brexit survival strategies.
Edits consistently remove name-dropping of superstar DJs unless tied to substantive analysis. A rejected pitch about Calvin Harris’ Ibiza villa focused on real estate over musical impact.
Loben’s award-winning 2021 VR club feature shows his interest in format innovation. Successful pitches incorporate visual elements or interactive data about streaming trends.
