Pete Tong
With a reputation as the most influential man in dance music, Pete Tong needs no introduction in Ibiza. Hosting Friday nights on BBC’s Radio1 and regularly gracing the decks of the world’s greatest clubs, Pete spends the majority of the summer on the island with wife Carolina and their children. His recent departure from Pacha to Eden has been 2008’s most talked about club land shake-up and he is one of the brains behind the launch of the highly anticipated International Music Summit. As the clubbing season draws closer, Pete spent some time telling us about his plans for the summer.
You’ve been coming to Ibiza since 1986 - how have you seen the island change?
I believe you have to embrace change and the island has certainly evolved from the mid ‘80s. It’s more geared up to handle the increase in tourism and it has a conscience to protect the beauty of the area. I’d now like to see those from the club, bar and restaurant side of the business being represented at the highest level, so our side of the story gets a fair hearing.
Is this what inspired the launch of the International Music Summit?
The directors all shared the feeling that there was an opportunity to fill a void and do something positive for the image of the island and the business as a whole. We hope to get a few hundred of the leading movers and shakers of the music business and Ibiza together for a few days to discuss the topics of the day, network and exchange ideas - I’d like to see some clear initiatives at the end of the three days.
Can you tell us about your reasons behind the move to Eden this year?
I wanted to try something different, something challenging. Five years of the same thing is long enough in one club, it’s time to blaze a new path and tell a fresh story. I want Wonderland to be just that – a new kid on the block, a different location on the circuit, a place where we can challenge the status quo and try some different stuff, entertain, excite and hopefully introduce some great new talent.
Do you think it will help lift the reputation of San Antonio?
The more quality that turns up in San An, the better the perception of it will be. Café Del Mar, Café Mambo and Ibiza Rocks have sent out a very positive message about Ibiza around the world but the San An area hasn’t been in the best shape to reap the benefits. I believe there is now a desire to change that, from the local authorities to those who have vested interests in the area. That’s what Wonderland at Eden is all about - a desire to change. I hope we play a big part.
The VIP lifestyle and high-end luxury culture seem to have exploded in Ibiza over the past few years - what do you think of this?
I think Ibiza should be proud that the island is attracting this kind of clientele - after all they are leaving places like San Tropez and Sardinia in favour of the white isle but shouldn’t abuse the privilege and get greedy.
What sums up the ideal Ibiza style experience for you?
Late lunch or early dinner with great food, wine and friends at one of the many amazing open air, waterfront and beachside locations with Paco Fernandez playing in the background!
This story was published on June 20, 2008