Van Hechter is more than just a name that resonates with soulful music and dance beats. Over time, Hechter has evolved from an artist into a character, a persona that many of his fans resonate with but few truly understand. In a world of music where true originality is hard to come by, understanding the artist behind the art can provide a whole new layer of appreciation. Today, we venture further into Van Hechter’s world, attempting to decipher the essence of this elusive figure.
If you’re eager for a blast from the past, click here to relive our previous intimate chat with Van Hechter, where he took us on a musical journey through his life and inspirations.
Origins of a Character: In a past interview, you mentioned that “Van Hechter is a fictional character” you invented around age 4. Can you delve deeper into the evolution of this character over the years? How did the experiences, societal influences, and personal growth shape the Van Hechter persona in the music industry today?
– I actually don’t overthink it. This other person I become as soon as I pencil in a mustache is a true part of me, but a part that pays no attention to traditional reality or down to earth things… When in character all becomes comedic, glamorous, and disco starts to play within my heart. It’s not so much a character I play but a part of my soul I tap into. I’m very lucky to have this ”escapism” built into me. Even in a bad situation I can go there. Hopefully through music and onstage: I take people in with me.
As for the evolution of the character: well- I just think I am more and more truthful to the fiction! I know the character better with each performance. I still discover things about him– to this day!
Duality of Van Hechter: Your music often embodies a fusion of humor with underlying darkness, resonating with your belief that “glitter always comes from a place of pain.” How does the character of Van Hechter allow you to explore this dichotomy? Is there a constant interplay between the fictional character and your true self?
– I think that Van as a character IS the result of trauma. You take your traumas and instead of crying for a whole lifetime, you make something magical out of them. In my case I believe I was traumatized in the womb for reasons I won’t discuss here, then of course when my mother died at 4, later in school getting bullied day and out for a decade– that’s just the summary. There are 2 ways to react to this… You can become depressed or bitter or closed to the world or start bullying others hence contributing to the violence chain OR you can make relative peace with things and fight for happiness… I chose to turn all my wounds it into a big disco comedy show starring the most fun version of me. That doesn’t mean: don’t do your therapy or try to resolve issues. But don’t dwell, either…
The Mustache as a Mask: You mentioned using your mother’s eyeliner to draw a mustache as a young child, which became a shield against pain, fear, and tears. How does the Van Hechter character serve as a modern-day ‘mustache’? Are there aspects of this persona that protect you in the world of show business or even in personal moments?
– It’s not a mask it’s a prop, hah! I don’t hide behind it. I show a side of myself I normally would never dare show through it. Mustache guy dares! He is fearless to present himself to the world as he is– silliness included! Furthermore, as large an ego as he has- he also has absolutely no ego: willing to make a complete fool of himself for a laugh. He is at the service of humans. He exists to entertain.
I think Van protects the shy anxious sensitive guy I can be when not in character.
Van Hechter, the artist, and “Van Hechter,” the character, seamlessly merge to create music that’s both reflective and dance-worthy. The persona serves as a beacon, illustrating the artist’s journey, struggles, and triumphs. As listeners and fans, understanding this character provides a richer experience when we tune into his music, offering a dance between reality and fiction, past and present.
For more of Van Hechter’s musical escapades, don’t forget to follow him on Instagram and stay connected through his Spotify account. We eagerly await what the artist—and the character—have in store for us next.
Van Hechter, the artist, and “Van Hechter,” the character, seamlessly merge to create music that’s both reflective and dance-worthy. The persona serves as a beacon, illustrating the artist’s journey, struggles, and triumphs. As listeners and fans, understanding this character provides a richer experience when we tune into his music, offering a dance between reality and fiction, past and present. For more of Van Hechter’s musical escapades, don’t forget to follow him on Instagram and stay connected through his Spotify account. We eagerly await what the artist—and the character—have in store for us next.
Extra Insights with Van Hechter– The artist and the personae are one, actually. Then you have ”at home” guy: he washes paint brushes, mascara brushes, silk scarves, folds laundry, cleans floors by hand compulsively, cooks, walks around in sweatpants and flipflops… Only my super intimate friends know him.
And thank you for these very interesting questions… I rarely go where we went today- I think you’re very good at pushing me!
Now, about what’s coming next… If you’re in Montreal or visit the city this fall, I’ll be singing live, hosting and carousing, joking with guests at a very cool new bar called 1309 TAVERNE URBAINE- every Friday as of next week- until the Holidays, alongside DJ Styles- who spins really good danceable songs of all genres. I will also participate in a big event next November called ”Pop Noir”… Then I fly to Paris in early 2024, and release a brand-new album in the Spring! Should be a really fun next few months!
