Ryan Hemsworth to Spin his “HappySad” Beats at Fonda Theatre

Fred Hernandez

Eclectic Canadian DJ and producer Ryan Hemsworth will be performing at the Fonda Theatre on December 5. This 24-year-old wunderkind, known as the “Internet Zack Morris” and “The Remix Ryan Gosling,” has more than a rugged handsomeness to his name. His trademark electronic style combines dysphoric drumbeats with moody R&B samples creating a self-proclaimed “happysad” sound. Hemsworth’s music relies on the use of minor keys and a slower tempo to build an emotional core while maintaining an urgency and sensuality hidden beneath his melancholic veneer.

A solitary human being, Hemsworth found that the Internet could be a solace and an oasis for new ideas and sounds. While studying music journalism at Halifax’s University of King’s College, Hemsworth came across one of his original songs on a popular music website. He was encouraged to send his music to Bay Area rapper Shady Blaze eventually becoming Shady and the Main Attrakionz‘ short-lived mastering engineer. In 2011 “No Plans,” his first release, was featured on SPIN’s best of R&B albums of 2011 and he successfully followed the debut with “A Way” and “Kitsch Genius.”

His eccentric and experimental remix work made him a go-to hip-hop producer remixing songs for the likes of Deniro Farrar, Sole, Quadron and Lana Del Rey. His most high-profile reworkings have been Grimes‘ “Genesis,” Frank Ocean‘s “Thinkin’ Bout You,” and Future‘s “Turn On The Lights.” In 2012, his solo career took off with the release of his “Last Words” EP through the Wedidit label. He released his debut album “Guilt Trips” the following year through Last Gang Records.

As a follow-up to the album, Hemsworth released a free mixtape of remixes a few weeks later. His ear for detail helps him pick the most ethereal and seductive textures he can find. Hemsworth is a fan of minimalism. He works with a few sounds letting the space and atmosphere do more of the work for him. He also enjoys searching through the plethora of music on Soundcloud and releasing it through his Secret Songs imprint.

Ryan Hemsworth will be performing with Tennyson and Dawn Golden at the Fonda Theatre on Dec. 5. Tickets can be purchased here.