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.
