Oct 23

Lingam: "My hearing loss redefined how I feel sound"

Yoni Weizenberg from Tel Aviv, is the artist behind the electronic project Lingam. Despite losing most of his hearing at age three, he developed a passion for music and launched his Indie Techno solo project at 27. He has performed at major events like The Block and Midburn, and is about to release his debut album featuring notable collaborations.

How has your life experience with hearing loss influenced your approach to music? In what ways do you perceive and interpret sound differently than other artists?

My hearing loss has redefined the way I experience sound. While some focus on melody or harmony, I connect with the vibrations, rhythm, and bass in a way that feels deeply physical. I don’t just hear music – I feel it in my bones, in my chest. It’s a conversation between my body and the sound waves. This connection became my signature. What might seem like a limitation at first has turned into a strength. I lean into instinct over tradition, creating music that’s raw, emotional, and uniquely mine. Every beat, every pulse comes from within, and I trust that feeling more than following any textbook rules.

You began experimenting with music at the age of 13. What were your main musical influences during that time, and how have they evolved over the years?

My first encounters with music were through my dad’s record collection – heavy rock, hip-hop, and funk. But when I discovered electronic music, something clicked. Early on, I was drawn to artists like Infected Mushroom and Astral Projection, who combined powerful rhythms with hypnotic, emotional soundscapes. From there, my love for electronic music grew. I dived into EDM through artists like Calvin Harris, Tiesto, and David Guetta, fascinated by how they build energy on the dancefloor. Over time, I found myself gravitating toward deeper, underground sounds. I’ve explored everything from trance to techno, blending those influences into my own sound – one that’s driven by emotion and rhythm.

Can you tell us about your creative process in making your upcoming album? Are there specific collaborations that have particularly inspired you?

My creative process is all about instinct. I don’t rely much on references or theory. Instead, I start by building rhythm and layering percussion – I let the groove come to life first. It’s only when I feel a deep connection with the sound that I add other elements. This album has been an emotional journey. I’ve collaborated with some incredibly talented people who respect how I work, which brought new energy to the tracks. It’s exciting because every sound in this album means something to me. This project isn’t just music; it’s a reflection of who I am and how I’ve grown.

You've performed at prestigious events like The Block and Midburn. What are some of the most memorable experiences you've had during these performances?

Performing at The Block was a dream come true. It’s a venue that hosts some of the biggest legends in the music industry, so playing there felt like a major milestone. The energy in that space is intense, and it was surreal to feel my beats come to life in a place with so much history. Every moment behind the decks there was electric. And then there’s Midburn – playing in the desert under the stars, surrounded by people who are completely immersed in the experience, was unforgettable. These moments remind me why I do what I do. When the crowd connects with the rhythms I create, it’s pure magic. It’s not just about playing tracks – it’s about crafting a journey and feeling that energy flow between me and the audience.

What challenges have you faced in your music career, and how have you overcome them? Do you have any advice for emerging artists who might be in similar situations?

My biggest challenge was realizing that my creative process would never follow a traditional path. In the beginning, I tried to conform to industry standards, but it left me frustrated. It wasn’t until I let go and trusted my instincts that I found my true sound. Embracing the way I feel and experience music made all the difference. For anyone struggling, my advice is simple: embrace what makes you different. Those unique qualities, even the things you think are weaknesses, could be your greatest strengths. There’s no right way to make music. Trust your vision, find your own rhythm, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Music is about feeling – as long as you’re honest with that, you’ll find your way.