Congratulations on the release of Night Diving! This album explores new sonic territory—what inspired this shift in your sound compared to Wandering?

I’ve been growing into my own sound as an artist, and the shift could be attributed to discovering newer influences such as Noah Kahan and Gracie Abrams.

Your new single, Better Me For You (Brown Eyes), is deeply introspective. Can you share the story behind the lyrics and what inspired you to write it?

Better Me For You (Brown Eyes) follows the journey that my romantic life took following the acquisition of independence. I wasn’t the person I wanted to be, and it took an amazing girl coming into my life to help me change for the better.

Your journey from busking on a pier to selling out headline shows has been incredible. At what point did you realize your music was truly connecting with a global audience?

The streams continue to feel surreal to this day… but I would say a pivotal turning point was when fans started to send videos of them hearing my music in stores and on the radio.

Your song A Lot More Free has amassed over 80M+ streams and had a viral resurgence on TikTok. What do you think it is about that song that resonates so strongly with fans?

I think the subject matter of A Lot More Free can translate into many different experiences. The pain-filled sound of the vocal performance, coupled with the broad language of the chorus and verses, creates a global and digestible track.

You’ve turned down opportunities from major TV talent shows to walk your own path. What led to that decision, and how do you feel it has shaped your career?

I feel as though that decision was pivotal in my artistic journey. Although I have nothing against the shows themselves, I felt I had established a career already and was hesitant to let that career be attributed to success on a game show.

You’ve spoken about your brother’s battle with cancer and how it influenced your journey. How has that experience impacted your songwriting and personal outlook on life?

Several songs have been directly influenced by my brother’s battle, specifically Can’t Hide Light and Freezing In November. In a more general sense, his journey has allowed me to “zoom out” my perspective and keep close to me the things and people that are truly important.

With Night Diving produced by Jamie Kenney, what was the most memorable moment in the studio while bringing this album to life?

The entire writing session that created Night Diving was one of the most memorable experiences. It allowed me to explore within myself and treat the experience like it was a therapy session.

You’re about to embark on your debut headline tour, including newly added shows in Australia and New Zealand. What can fans expect from your live performances?

At every live performance, my goal is to place myself in the mindset I was in when each song was written. By doing this, I hope to embody the emotion and make each person in the crowd feel less alone.

Billboard recently named you Country Rookie of the Month, and CMT spotlighted you as a Next Up Now artist. How does it feel to receive that level of recognition so early in your career?

To be accepted by the music community is extremely rewarding. I think sometimes people have digital success and lack the acceptance of the industry itself… all in all, I am extremely honored to be recognized.

As a Nashville-based artist with roots in Oregon, how have your surroundings influenced your songwriting and the themes you explore in your music?

My physical location doesn’t play as large of a role as one may think. I use nostalgia and memories as primary drivers in my songwriting and very rarely rely on my current location to inspire my songs. I hope to go on a peaceful camping trip on the West Coast and write some music inspired by the Northwestern woods soon.

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Your music blends Afro House and tech rhythms in a distinctive way. Can you tell us about your early inspirations and how they influenced your sound today?

My earliest inspiration came from my father’s vinyl collection, which spanned blues, rock, and disco from the ’60s and ’70s. That eclectic range of music taught me the importance of groove and melody—two elements I carry into my productions today. Later on, I discovered electronic music through late-night radio shows, which opened my eyes to the boundless creativity in dance music. Over time, I gravitated toward Afro House because of its organic, percussive energy, and I fused it with techy, modern rhythms to create a style that feels both soulful and forward-thinking.

How has your artistic evolution shaped the way you approach production and live performances?

I’ve learned to see production and performance as two sides of the same coin. Early on, I was very focused on the technical aspects—like perfecting drum patterns or layering synths—without always considering how these tracks would translate live. As my career progressed and I started playing bigger venues, I realized the importance of storytelling and dynamics in both my sets and productions. Now, when I produce, I’m already envisioning how the crowd might react, where the energy might peak, and how I can weave in melodic or vocal elements to create memorable moments on the dancefloor.

Being selected for Shazam’s Fast Forward 2025 list is a huge achievement. What does this recognition mean to you, and how do you think it will impact your career?

It’s an incredible honor and a significant milestone in my journey. Shazam has such a global presence, so being featured on their Fast Forward 2025 list instantly exposes my music to listeners who might not have found me otherwise. In terms of impact, I believe it can open doors to new collaborations, festival bookings, and a broader international fan base. Most importantly, it motivates me to keep experimenting and pushing the boundaries of my sound, knowing there’s an audience out there ready to embrace it.

In what ways do you think platforms like Shazam contribute to an artist’s global visibility and reach?

Platforms like Shazam act as a bridge between the artist and a global audience. When someone hears a track they like—whether it’s on the radio, in a club, or even in a café—they can immediately identify it and explore more of the artist’s music. This instant connection is crucial in an era where people discover music on the go. For emerging artists, it can be a game-changer, because Shazam’s data can lead to playlist placements, label interest, and media attention that might otherwise be difficult to secure.

You’ve gained support from industry heavyweights like Black Coffee, Solomun, and Laurent Garnier. How have their endorsements or advice influenced your journey?

Having the support of such iconic figures is both humbling and inspiring. When Solomun first played one of my tracks, it felt like a stamp of approval that pushed me to refine my craft even further. Black Coffee’s feedback has encouraged me to stay true to the Afro-inspired roots in my music, reminding me that authenticity resonates most strongly with audiences. While I haven’t had extensive direct communication with Laurent Garnier, seeing him acknowledge my music underscores the universal appeal of a well-crafted track. Each endorsement is a reminder that quality and passion can transcend borders and genres.

Have you had any memorable moments or collaborations with these legends that helped define your sound or career direction?

One standout moment was discovering, almost by accident, that Solomun was dropping my track during one of his sets. I came across a fan’s Instagram story and recognized my production in the background. It was a surreal realization—like seeing your work in a movie for the first time. I haven’t officially collaborated with Black Coffee or Laurent Garnier yet, but I’ve certainly been influenced by their styles. The emotional depth in Black Coffee’s sets and the pioneering spirit of Laurent Garnier continue to shape my own approach to music and performance.

You had a residency at Club Chinois in Ibiza and performed in over 25 countries in 2023. How has touring internationally influenced your sound and performance style?

Touring internationally has been a revelation. Playing in diverse locations—from Ibiza’s cutting-edge clubs to intimate spots in Kenya or bustling cities like Dubai—exposed me to different cultures, musical tastes, and crowd dynamics. This global perspective taught

me the importance of adaptability. I’ve learned to read the room and tweak my set to maintain energy and connection. In the studio, I now incorporate elements that resonate universally, whether it’s a vocal chant that sparks crowd participation or a bassline that compels everyone to dance, regardless of their musical background.

What have been some of the most unforgettable experiences or lessons from playing to such diverse audiences around the world?

One of my favorite memories is playing a sunset set in an open-air venue where the crowd spanned so many nationalities—everyone was united by the music. The lesson I took away is that a well-curated set can overcome language and cultural barriers. Another key takeaway is the power of spontaneity; sometimes the best moments happen when you read the crowd and shift gears on the fly. It’s those instances—where you feel an electric connection with the audience—that make all the hard work worthwhile.

Your 2024 single “Opera” made waves. How do you plan to build on that momentum with upcoming projects or collaborations?

“Opera” was a pivotal release for me—melding theatrical, melodic elements with a driving Afro House rhythm. The overwhelming response motivated me to expand the concept beyond the studio and into a full-scale event experience. We’re currently developing a tour under the Opera banner, incorporating immersive visuals, live performance elements, and special guest appearances. It’s a fusion of music, drama, and dance that we hope will resonate deeply with audiences across the globe, bringing the essence of Opera to life in an entirely new way.

As you continue breaking into new markets, do you see your sound evolving, or are there specific sonic directions you’re excited to explore?

Absolutely—evolution is key to staying relevant and inspired. I’m currently experimenting with more cinematic elements, layering orchestral strings and atmospheric textures over Afro-centric drums. There’s also a growing interest in bridging Afro House with other genres like progressive or even breaks, so I’m curious about how those crossovers might sound. Ultimately, I want to maintain the core essence of my music—emotional resonance and rhythmic drive—while embracing fresh ideas that keep listeners (and myself) excited.

INTERVIEW

‘J-Town’ blends traditional Indonesian sounds with electronic rhythms. Could you share more about the creative process behind this track and what inspired you to fuse these elements?

Actually, ‘J-Town’ is my first 2025 release that steps away from my signature Indonesian Bounce sound. This track marks a new chapter in my production journey, where I explore influences from techno and house music. The creative process was all about pushing boundaries – experimenting with different rhythms, textures, and grooves while still maintaining a vibe that feels authentic to me. It’s part of my evolution as an artist, showing that growth doesn’t mean losing your roots but expanding them.

You’ve been instrumental in pioneering Indonesian Bounce. How has this genre evolved since your breakthrough, and where do you see it heading in the next few years?

When I first started producing, my influences were rooted in Baile Funk, Dutch House, Breaks, and Brazilian sounds, which shaped what eventually became Indonesian Bounce. During the pandemic, interest in this sound exploded, especially as border restrictions gave local scenes more room to grow. I was fortunate to tour nationally and introduce Indo Bounce to new audiences. Today, it’s recognized and appreciated more than ever. Moving forward, I see Indo Bounce evolving through collaborations and fresh production techniques. It’s important to keep refining and experimenting with the sound to keep it exciting and sustainable for the future.

With ‘Yummy’ being a chart-topping collaboration with Bravy, what role does collaboration play in your creative process, and can we expect more exciting collaborations in the future?

Collaboration has always been a huge part of my creative journey. Bravy and I go way back – we worked on tracks like ‘Big Booty’ and ‘Booty Call’ before ‘Yummy’ even happened. He was one of the first people I connected with to talk about music production, and our casual chats eventually led to the birth of Package Collective, our community of like-minded artists. Working with friends who share the same passion brings a unique energy to the process. And yes, you can definitely expect more projects from us in the future – we’re just getting started!

You’ve mentioned Whisnu 2.0 as part of your new vision. What does Whisnu 2.0 represent, and how does it reflect your growth as an artist?

Whisnu Santika 2.0 represents my growth, evolution, and development as an artist. It’s not about changing who I am but about exploring new sounds and styles while keeping my signature vibe intact. I want people to hear a new track and think, “This feels fresh, but it’s definitely Whisnu Santika.” It’s about surprising my audience while staying true to what makes my music unique. For me, evolution isn’t just a phase – it’s a mindset.

Looking ahead to 2025, what can fans expect from your upcoming projects? Are there any particular themes or styles you’re exploring?

I can confidently say that 2025 will be full of surprises – it’s going to be a wild ride! I have some exciting collaborations lined up with artists I’ve admired for a long time. Musically, I’ll continue pushing Indo Bounce, but I’m also diving deeper into techno and house while experimenting with some pop influences. I’m all about breaking the mold and stepping outside my comfort zone, so expect the unexpected – fresh sounds, bold ideas, and projects that feel different from anything I’ve done before.

What has been the most challenging aspect of your musical evolution, and how have you overcome it to reach where you are today?

One of the biggest challenges has been finding the balance between staying true to my roots and evolving as an artist. It’s easy to get comfortable with a formula that works, but growth comes from stepping into the unknown. There were times when I felt unsure about experimenting with new sounds, wondering how people would react. But I’ve learned that trusting the process and staying authentic is key. Every challenge has been a lesson that has shaped my sound today.

You’ve performed at some iconic events like Tomorrowland and Borderland. How have these global stages influenced your sound, and do you bring elements of these experiences into your studio work?

Absolutely. Performing on global stages like Tomorrowland Belgium, Borderland Malaysia, and Siam Songkran Thailand has been a game-changer. You feel the energy of diverse crowds, and it shifts your perspective on how music connects with people. Seeing what resonates live helps me understand how to structure my tracks differently – whether it’s building tension, creating unexpected drops, or adding elements that hit harder in a festival setting. Those experiences definitely inspire me when I’m back in the studio.

With your multi-city tour with Package Collective, how does performing live differ from producing in the studio?

Performing live and producing in the studio are two sides of the same coin, but they feel completely different. In the studio, it’s all about experimentation – there’s room to try, fail, and refine. On stage, it’s about reading the crowd in real time, feeding off their energy, and creating an experience. When I’m performing, the instant connection with the audience pushes me to be more dynamic, and that energy often influences how I approach my next production.

What do you aim to convey through your live performances?

I want people to feel a connection – not just with the music, but with the moment. My goal is to create an atmosphere where people can let go, feel free, and lose themselves in the sound. Whether it’s a high-energy drop or a deep groove, I want every set to be memorable – like a shared experience between me and the crowd. It’s more than just playing tracks; it’s about creating a vibe that sticks with you long after the show ends.

You’ve built a strong following in Southeast Asia—how important is it for you to represent Indonesian culture on a global stage, and what do you want people to take away from your music?

Representing Indonesia on a global stage is something I’m really proud of. Our culture is rich and diverse, and I love weaving that into my music in subtle ways – whether through rhythms, melodies, or even just the energy I bring to my sets. I want people to hear my music and feel something universal while also discovering a bit of where I come from. It’s about showing that Indonesian artists have a place in the global scene and that we have something unique to offer.

What are some upcoming collaborations with Indonesian artists that you’re excited about, and how do you think these projects will push the boundaries of what Indonesian music can achieve on the global stage?

I’m really excited about some upcoming projects with fellow Indonesian artists who are pushing boundaries in their own way. Collaborating locally isn’t just about making tracks – it’s about building a movement and showcasing the diversity of talent we have here. These projects will blend so many colors into one creation, but more importantly, they’re a step toward putting Indonesia on the international map. Our music scene has so much to offer, and I truly believe these collaborations will help amplify our presence on the global stage.

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Your debut single, ‘I’ll Be,’ has gained significant traction online, earning you a strong following. Can you share the inspiration behind the song and how it feels to see such a positive response?

I’ll Be is somewhat of a personal manifesto… a pledge to my future self and the person I want to become. I touch on a lot of different aspects in my life that are important to me, so to see it connect with people is incredibly fulfilling and special. 

You’ve shared the stage with major artists like Newton Faulkner, Kim Churchill, Vera Blue, and Pete Murray. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from supporting these artists?

As a support artist, it’s your job to start the night off with good energy and create a vibe in the room before the headline. Doing shows like these have really taught me that the crowd is already on your side. When people come out for a show, they’re wanting to have a good time- and I think learning to lean into that mindset has been super beneficial. 

Signing a worldwide deal with AWAL US is a huge milestone. Can you walk us through how that opportunity came about and what it means for your career moving forward?

That journey really started from focusing heavily on my songwriting for a number of years – so that when it came to having the conversation with labels I had a big catalog as a sort of proof of work. I’ll Be was the song that set it into motion, with the amazing Mike Taylor joining our team and helping to set up the deal with AWAL. 

With your debut album on the horizon, what can fans expect in terms of sound, themes, and songwriting? Are there any particular influences shaping this project?

I feel like my music lives in the world of rock influenced singer/songwriter. I’m very inspired by stripped 60’s folk to modern pop, rock bands to cinematic soundtracks. Most of the songs have originated in writing on either guitar or piano, and centred around themes of self-discovery, purpose and love. 

Your music has resonated with both live audiences and online listeners. Do you approach songwriting differently knowing that your music connects in such varied ways?

In my writing I mostly try and follow what the song feels like it wants to be- both thematically and musically. Sometimes I’ll know when I’m writing that it could be well suited for live performances, and other times I’ll be writing a simple slow folk song with no chorus that will be less live suited. The song is the boss!

You have a captivating stage presence. How did you develop your live performance skills, and do you have any pre-show rituals to get in the right mindset?

Thank you! I’ve been playing live since I was 8 years old – singing Michael Jackson in a school production haha. Then writing, busking and doing gigs most weekends from around 12- travelling Aus in a caravan for 6 months with my family and playing everywhere we went. I just really love it so much and it’s huge reason for pursuing music. My pre-show rituals are mostly just warming up my voice and listening to some songs to get me in the right headspace. 

As part of Live Nation’s ONES TO WATCH series, you’re joining a lineup of rising talent. How does it feel to be part of this platform, and what are you most looking forward to about the Melbourne event?

It’s awesome to be included in this incredible series. To join a great list of past performers is exciting and I’m super keen to play the Gaso- it’ll be my first show there! 

The Australian music scene is evolving rapidly. As an artist navigating the industry, what are some challenges you’ve faced, and how have you overcome them?

I think finding the right team is so important. I kept writing and focusing on the music for years until I felt confident in the team around me to achieve a shared vision. I’m grateful and excited to be starting this new phase of my journey with some awesome and talented people.

Your career is on an exciting trajectory in 2025. What are your biggest goals for this year, and are there any dream collaborations or projects in the works?

I’m looking to spend some time overseas this year playing gigs and touring new places… I’m super excited by that! Working on these songs with Eric J Dubowsky has really been a dream collaboration… we’ve written songs together that will be on the record and he’s producing and mixing. A really cool relationship with someone who’s Grammy and ARIA winning. 

For fans discovering your music for the first time through ONES TO WATCH, what’s the one thing you’d like them to take away from your performance?

That I’m in this for the long haul! I’ve been focused on music since I was a kid and yet this now feels like a new beginning. I have so much to give moving forward and would love if people connect to lyrics or a feeling I’ve facilitated. 

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