‘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.

INSTAGRAM

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. 

INSTAGRAM