Berlin native, Nico Stojan, has been all across the planet taking people on musical journeys since the early nineties. He developed a deep love for Jazz & Hip Hop before the vibrant growth of the famous Berlin electronic nightlife. Once the Berlin scene took flight, Nico was expressing himself with euphoric sets as a resident at Bar25. It didn’t stop there. Since then his sound has been welcomed by seas of desert dancers, festivals of warm hearts & clubs of ecstatic ravers. Nico’s productions find perfect harmony between analog & digital sounds, irresistable grooves accompanied by entrancing melodies. As the co-founder of Ouïe records, together with Acid Pauli, Nico is planning to produce more showcases and present his vision of modern dance music around the globe. Read the full interview we had with him while listening to his recent podcast. Enjoy !
WWD: We understand you grew up in Berlin and still reside there. What are your favorite things about the city? Would you consider living elsewhere in the world?
Yes that’s right, I was born and raised in Berlin and am based here. I grew up in the 80‘s and was a teenager when the wall came down. It was such an exciting time! I guess the most important thing about Berlin is the fact that it became the capital city of Germany in 1999 but never became the financial capital. I think that is a big reason why Berlin never became too fast paced and hectic. There is a lot of culture and of course the music scene is quite unique. In the summer it is the greenest city I‘ve been to. As you can see, I still love my city! I can maybe consider live somewhere warmer and then it would be in the countryside.
WWD: What do you like about playing in the North America and favorite places to play here in the US/Canada?
I really like California. You can really feel the energy there and it gives me a sense of freedom. New York and Montreal are great cities to visit too.
WWD: Mention clubs that you like playing at
I really love playing Stereo Bar Montreal. The sound is just one of the best in North America. Also i like the vibe in DC at Flash Club a lot. The sound there is also top notch!
WWD: What are the plans for the Ouïe label ?
Keeping the vibes high and giving our baby enough love so that we are always sure that we have our own platform to work and play with. New releases are scheduled this year – an EP from Disarmed with a Lovestruckk Remix and EP’s from Acid Pauli and David Mayer.For 2020 we have my EP planned and a new album coming from Acid Pauli. We will also be launching our sub label ‘Ouïe Circle’ where we will have the opportunity to invite new artists to be part of the journey.
WWD: We understand that you were a big hip hop DJ in Berlin? Do you find your hip hop roots inspiring the music you play today.
Technically it’s definitely helped, even if I don’t play vinyl anymore. Musically, I have always found it inspiring to listen to all kinds of genres as I find it gives me a broader perspective of frequencies and vibes.
WWD: If you were not doing music, what career or passion would you be pursuing?
I guess I would do something in the health sector … but honestly I’ve never asked myself that question!
WWD: It seems you love playing the Burning Man, how has that experience effected you as an artist ?
It is just a very unique experience. Every year it’s different. It will be my seventh year in a row and when I went for the first time I remember saying that I will never miss it again. It’s also where Lovestruckk was born!
WWD: Thanks a lot for this quick chat Nico !