French House is experiencing a thrilling renaissance, and at the heart of this resurgence stands the prodigious DJ, producer, and musician THEOS. Born Théo, he was immersed in a vibrant musical environment from a very young age thanks to his musician parents. He launched his career under the moniker THEOS in 2017.
A clear sign of his dedication, Théo moved to London at the end of 2019 to fully commit to his craft, enrolling in sound engineering studies at just 17 years old. His production palette is richly varied, drawing essential inspiration from genres that shaped his childhood, including Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Funk, before ultimately embracing the classic grooves of house music.
Now rising star across Europe, on the crest of a wave, and releasing under Defected and Shall not fade – we spoke to Theos about his new single as well as his incredible rise due to a nod from Kerri Chandler.
WWD: You’ve been called a “king of funk” in the French scene. How did your parents’ musical background shape the sound we hear in THEOS today?
They brought me all the diversity I grew up with! Between Classical, Jazz and Funk with my parents, RnB and HipHop with my older brother, I had already a great knowledge before even discovering electronic music at 16 years old.
WWD: Moving to London at 17 is a huge leap. What was going through your head when you left France to study sound engineering?
For me it was a huge leap indeed, I was scared as hell ahah. But it was definitely the best choice I’ve made, and this thanks to my parents too. It allowed me to stay away from all distractions I had in my hometown, and only work towards my goals.
WWD: ‘Love Me Right’ feels like a love letter to New York disco but with that distinct French touch. How did that track come together?
That track is the perfect match between Fleur De Mur and I… We basically did this song the first day we met, and all this naturally, the inspiration was flowing so well that we composed everything in less than a day.
WWD: We love the video of you playing with Kerri Chandler. What was it like being invited by a legend to play piano during his set?
It’s an absolute honor to be part of some of Kerri’s sets! The first time he invited me was 3 years ago at PIV Festival in Amsterdam. Since then we had the chance to do it again multiple times. We also did our first B2B on the decks at Chinois Ibiza for his residency. Now we’re good friend!
WWD: Is performing live alongside DJ sets, something you do often?
I always play some live piano on my sets, whenever I feel it. I don’t wanna play keys just to play keys. I touch the keyboard only if me soul tells me to do so on the spot.
WWD: You debuted on Defected Records with Oden & Fatzo. How does it feel to work with such legendary names at an early stage in your career?
I feel so proud, and blessed, but in the end everything comes from hard work and consistency. Big up to my bros Oden & Fatzo for supporting me and my work since the very first day we met <3
WWD: How would you describe the “new wave” of French House that’s happening right now?
I really think it has so many great influences to bring to the scene right now. France up and coming acts are definitely ones to watch I believe.
WWD: You also have a new project called Astels that leans more toward pop. How do you balance that with the THEOS house sound?
That’s correct, the second part of my life comes to Astels. I have to say, it is a lot of work, A LOT… But I’m more than happy with everything that is happening for both projects. Both grow well, without one or the other, I couldn’t feel fully fulfilled. One project brings me all I need besides electronic music, and the other keeps me dancing around (i couldn’t live without House music lol)
WWD: What’s next for THEOS?
A lot of single releases are coming soon! With a bunch of talented singers and producers. I’ll keep my pace with all the DJ sets “THEOS Archive” I’ve been publishing recently, to make sure to provide you all the groove needed to stay healthy 😉
WWD: We appreciate that service! Thanks for the chat 🙂
‘Love Me Right’ is available here