The Unthinkable: Remembering DJ Hazel
The Polish electronic music scene is reeling. We lost DJ Hazel—Michał Orzechowski—on May 7th, 2025. He was only 44. Honestly, who saw that coming? The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation, leaving a lot of unanswered questions and a heavy cloud of sadness hanging over everything.
A Life Too Short
Michał, born in Warsaw on July 1st, 1980, exploded onto the electronic music scene in 1998. DJ Hazel wasn’t just a DJ; he was a force of nature. His sets were legendary—electrifying, full of energy, and utterly unique. He was also a seriously talented producer and, get this, a savvy businessman.
Early Success: The guy was a natural. Within months of his debut, he’d already won the Polish DMC championship. Then he went on to snag the Master DJ DMC title. Talk about a meteoric rise!
Musical Genius: His music spanned the whole electronic spectrum: house, electro house, trance, hard trance, techno, hardstyle—you name it. That versatility is what connected him with so many people. He wasn’t stuck in a box; he explored and experimented.
A National Anthem: And then there’s "I Love Poland," released in 2015. The song became a massive hit, racking up over five million views on YouTube. It was more than just a catchy tune; it was a genuine expression of national pride, a testament to his connection with his roots.
The Entrepreneur: He wasn’t just spinning records; he was building an empire. He owned the Mihałufka inn in Skępe and co-owned the Explosion club in Borkowo Kościelne. The man had vision and drive.
His international career was equally impressive. He played everywhere from the US and the Netherlands to Ireland, Turkey, Sweden, Belgium, and even China. He was a European Vice-Champion in DJ Championships, showcasing his incredible skill and competitive spirit. It feels surreal thinking about how far he'd come.
A Shock to the System
The news of his death was devastating. Social media exploded with tributes—heartbreaking messages from fans and fellow artists sharing memories and expressing their disbelief. His last social media post, hours before the tragic news, hinted at upcoming projects. It’s just…heartbreaking.
The investigation is ongoing, and the truth is still out there. Right now, it's just a frustrating wait, a void where his vibrant presence used to be.
An Unforgettable Legacy
DJ Hazel’s impact on the Polish electronic music scene, and beyond, was huge. He wasn't just a performer; he was a mentor, a friend, an inspiration. His innovative sound, the way he connected with people—that's what made him special. His music will live on, a powerful reminder of his talent and passion.
We may not know all the answers yet, but one thing is certain: DJ Hazel’s memory will live on through his music and the countless lives he touched. His absence is a massive loss, one that will be felt for a long time to come.
The music world is mourning a true legend. His story reminds us to cherish the moments and celebrate the lives of those who leave such a profound mark on our world. Rest in peace, Michał.
