Do you have a story behind your artist name?
The name DJ Connery came about in a memorable way. During my time as a DJ, after one of my live sets, I spent an unforgettable evening with a wonderful woman who remarked, “You look like Sean Connery.” The name stuck from that moment on, and DJ Connery was born.
Tells us a bit about your music journey. How has it shaped you?
My music journey has been a lifelong exploration, full of discovery and growth. I thought it all started when I was 18, singing heavy metal, but looking back, I realize it began much earlier. At around three or four years old, I received an accordion as a gift. When spring came, I’d take it to my favorite spot in the forest and lose myself in the music, discovering chords for the first time. I even stumbled upon seven distinct chords on my own and, excited, ran home to ask my grandfather if “seven” had some special meaning. He dismissed it, but for me, it was a magical moment of discovery that left a lasting impression.
The journey continued through ups and downs, with real breakthroughs along the way. At 30, I met an African musician who taught me the deeper theory of beat and tone, changing my whole perspective on rhythm and connecting me even more deeply to music. But it was at age 50, at the end of 2019, when something truly transformative happened. I moved to my current home, and whether it was the energy of the place or a wonderful woman I met then, I suddenly found new inspiration. Almost every song I’ve written since has been shaped by that time, deepening my connection to music as a way to express life’s most profound emotions.
How would you describe your sound to someone unfamiliar with it?
I’d describe my sound as a moody, emotional blend of indie pop, Slowcore, Britpop, and post-punk, mixing both nostalgic and contemporary influences. It has an introspective edge, inviting listeners into a space where raw energy meets reflective depth. My music draws from elements of dream pop and alternative rock as well, creating a layered and immersive experience intended to feel both deeply personal and intense.
What drew you to the genre /instruments you’re playing right now?
I was drawn to indie rock, alongside genres like Slowcore, and Britpop, because of their emotional depth, raw energy, and storytelling potential. Singing and playing instruments like bass, guitar, and djembe allowed me to explore these emotions in a versatile and expressive way. Each has its unique voice: vocals capture vulnerability, the bass brings depth, the guitar adds texture, and the djembe introduces a rhythmic pulse. Together, they form the perfect foundation for conveying raw feelings and poetic expression.
What inspires you to write music?
My inspiration to write music is drawn from personal experiences, relationships, and my favorite artists, including bands like U2, The National, Cigarettes After Sex, David Bowie, The Beatles, Radiohead, The Cure, and Green Day. I also find influence in the sounds of Arcade Fire and The Smiths. Writing music allows me to make sense of emotions and build a meaningful connection with listeners. These artists’ blend of introspective lyrics and powerful soundscapes inspires me to create songs that resonate on a personal and universal level.
Would you tell us about your current project, album/EP, or song you’re promoting?
I’m currently promoting my new single, Kiss Me Before I Die, releasing on October 31st. This track blends Pop Rock with a Singer-Songwriter style, led by acoustic guitar, and dives into themes of vulnerability, love, and the desire for connection. It’s a song meant to evoke reflection and a sense of intimacy, and I’m incredibly excited to share this heartfelt piece of my journey with listeners.
What do you want listeners to take away from listening to your music?
I hope listeners feel connected, understood, and inspired. My goal is to create songs that resonate and help people tap into their own experiences and emotions. For me, each song must carry a message that motivates people toward positivity, breaking their own boundaries, and striving for meaningful change—a peaceful world, a healthier environment, and the release of inner blocks that hold us back. I want my music to inspire listeners not just to reflect, but to feel empowered to make a difference in their lives and the world around them.
Who are your top three artists right now? If that’s not a fair question, what’s your favorite song right now?
Right now, I’m especially inspired by The National, alt-J, and U2. Their music has had a huge influence on my recent work, with each bringing something unique—The National’s emotional depth, alt-J’s experimental edge, and U2’s iconic energy and storytelling. Their sounds resonate deeply with me and fuel my creative direction at the moment.
What’s the easiest way for fans to connect with you?
Fans can connect with me most easily on these social media channels:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reinhardzwisler/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DJ-Connery-108538554148799/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/rzwisler1/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/rzwisler/
- TikTok, Spotify, and more through my artist webpage: https://citaurus.com/DJconnery.html
What’s next for you?
After the release of “Kiss Me Before I Die,” I’m thrilled to be working on new songs with my band, who will be performing with me for the first time at my release party. There’s a lot more music to come, and I’m excited to keep sharing this journey with fans through new projects and live shows.
Bio:
DJ Connery, born Reinhard Zwisler in Salzburg in 1969, possesses a unique ability to resonate deeply with his audience, delivering an emotional impact through his passionate lyrics and distinctive sound. His journey began early, performing at local motorcycle meets with the rock band Magic Mirror, where his expressive songwriting and captivating melodies marked him as a compelling presence on the local scene. Over the years, DJ Connery has honed a style that draws from the raw energy of ’90s rock while blending it with the modern sensibilities of indie rock, dream pop, and Slowcore,.
With his breakout track “Give Me Your Hand,” Connery won over fans who resonated with his heartfelt and introspective lyrics. His song “Hey Man” further expanded his reach, attracting a wide fanbase of both young listeners and dedicated rock and indie enthusiasts. His latest single, “Kiss Me Before I Die,” marks a pivotal moment in his career, capturing a haunting, evocative sound that bridges nostalgia with modern intensity.
Inspired by the vocal depths of Matt Berninger and Johnny Cash, with a voice often compared to Leonard Cohen, DJ Connery’s music speaks to listeners across generations. Alongside music, his great love is flying, which infuses his work with a sense of freedom and exploration. As he steps onto the indie rock scene with fresh ambition, DJ Connery continues to create music that connects, uplifts, and endures.
