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Bákayan: "Every project is a new story, a new expression of myself"

Redaction
Apr 10
3 min read

Updated: Apr 14

Bákayan, born in the early '90s in southern Germany, developed a passion for music from a young age, influenced by his Southeastern roots. After moving to Berlin in 2018, he quickly made a name for himself in the electronic scene with a style that blends emotional storytelling and organic sounds, releasing on labels like Stil vor Talent and Kindisch, with support from artists such as Oliver Koletzki and Black Coffee. He is the founder of ALA BØRA, a Berlin-based label and event series, and performs worldwide with innovative sets and hybrid live shows. Following his 2021 debut Umut Var, he has become a rising presence in organic house, melodic, and afro sounds. His latest EP Rebelz, released on The Gardens of Babylon, marks a new chapter in his artistic journey.

"Rebelz" EP marks a new chapter in your musical journey. What guided you in creating this project, and what message do you want to convey with these tracks?

This EP doesn’t really try to explain something. It’s raw and real. For me, making music isn’t always about conveying something directly - it’s more about self-expression. It reflects my experiences, dreams and manifestations. Both tracks are deeply inspired by moments from my past.

Your sound blends acoustic, electronic, and vocal elements, creating a unique identity. How do you find the right balance between these elements in your tracks?

I don’t consciously plan when or how to use vocals, synths, or other elements - they come naturally from my subconscious. For example, "Rebelz" started with a melody that popped into my head. I quickly recorded it on my phone and brought it into Ableton to build everything around it. You can even hear that original recording as a "DÜ DÜ DÜ" right before the second drop. I love working this way because it keeps my tracks unpredictable. Every project is a new story, a new expression of myself.

With Need Your Love, it was the head voice vocals that came first. I recorded it immediately on my phone, just like I often do. I love these little surprises - those spontaneous moments of inspiration that even I can’t predict. They keep my creative process exciting and authentic.

You collaborated with Yulia Niko for the release of "Glam" on Axept, a track that perfectly blends your influences. How did this collaboration come about, and what inspired you in creating the piece?

Working with Yulia is fun and effortless - we share similar tastes, inspirations and musical visions. "Glam" was inspired by a very famous ’80s song (you probably know which one 😉). My goal was to reimagine it as a modern club banger. I started by recording a vocal and melody loop and knew Yulia would be the perfect collaborator for this project. I sent it to her, she fell in love with it right away, and the rest is history. Months later, "Glam" is still dominating dancefloors worldwide. That’s exactly what we set out to do — create a track made to move people.

You’ve received support from major names like Oliver Koletzki and Black Coffee. How important has this recognition been for your career, and how has it influenced your artistic path?

When people ask me who my idol is, I always say it’s the best version of myself - there’s no one I look up to particularly. Oliver Koletzki and Black Coffee are musicians who inspire me. Oliver believed in me early on and gave me the opportunity to release an EP on Stil Vor Talent. Getting support from artists you’ve admired for years? It’s a game-changer. It’s humbling, but also fires me up to keep going harder.

You’ve played at iconic locations like the Monastery Ruins Allerheiligen. Is there a place or an event you dream of reaching with your music in the future?

Every place I play has its own magic - no two gigs are ever the same. Whether it’s a festival set in a breathtaking environment or an intimate venue. If we’re talking about dream gigs, Mayan Warrior at Burning Man is on my bucket list; and of course, the holy grail - Panorama Bar at Berghain. Those are the kind of experiences that would be truly unforgettable. Each venue brings a special connection with the crowd and defines my music journey.