Ruben Karapetyan: "I prefer to give production the time and focus it really deserves"
- Editorial Staff
- Feb 1
- 3 min read
Originally recognized as one of Armenia’s top electronic music talents in the late ’90s by Zrutsaser Entertainment Magazine, Karapetyan has since become one of the most respected figures in the global Progressive House scene. With an innovative and captivating sound, Ruben Karapetyan has earned the support of major labels, internationally renowned DJs, and leading producers, spreading his music worldwide. His ability to blend energy and emotional depth makes each track a unique experience, solidifying his place as an influential and ever-evolving artist in the contemporary electronic music landscape.
How did you approach remixing Emi Galvan’s "Everlong" to bring something fresh and original to the track?
Remixing something Emi creates is always a challenge, because the original is already very full and driving. Instead of adding more elements, I approached it from the opposite direction. I stripped the track back, removed several layers, and focused on creating a cleaner, deeper drive while maintaining the most important elements of the original.
For the breakdown, I wanted to move away from a traditional progressive house tension build and lean more into an acid-driven progression. That approach gave the remix its own identity while still respecting the original. I’m really happy with how it turned out.
Being one of Armenia’s top electronic artists since the late ’90s, how have you seen the Progressive House scene evolve over the years?
Like any genre, the sound of progressive house has constantly evolved over the years. Back in the late ’90s, everything was faster and much more melodic. House often sat right on the border between progressive house and progressive trance, and many artists would move between those styles in their sets.
Over time, the sound slowed down and became deeper, darker, and more groove-focused. That evolution really resonated with me and is what gradually drew me away from psy-trance and into progressive house. It felt like a more mature, hypnotic way to tell a story on the dancefloor.
Your sound is recognized worldwide—how do you maintain your musical identity while working with different labels and artists globally?
I never try to follow a specific label sound or chase what’s trending at the moment. I’ve always believed that having a clear musical identity is more important than fitting into a formula. I focus on my own sound, always maintaining deep, driving basslines and warm analog textures.
When I work with artists from around the world on remixes, I connect with the elements of the original that immediately catch my attention and build from there, shaping the track into my own interpretation while staying true to its core.
What upcoming projects or collaborations are you currently working on following this remix?
Over the past few years my production output has been a bit slower, mainly because I’ve been touring heavily. I don’t work very well while I’m on the road, so I prefer to give production the time and focus it really deserves.
That said, I have 2 track EP coming out on Meanwhile, also 2 track EP on Clubsonica Records, Original track of mine with a remix from none other than Emi Galvan on UV. Later this year, there’s also an EP I’ve been working on together with Guy Mantzur that will finally see the light of day. Beyond that, I’m focused on select remixes for some of my favorite artists on labels I truly respect.
What advice would you give to young producers looking to break into the electronic music scene, especially in Progressive House?
Answer: Consistency is key in this business—just keep producing and keep improving. Don’t try to copy anyone else’s sound, because the industry doesn’t need two artists who sound exactly the same. Breaking into electronic music is challenging, especially in progressive house, with thousands of tracks released every month. To stand out, it’s not just about the music—you also need to focus on promotion, marketing, and how you represent yourself. It’s not easy, but with dedication and persistence, it’s definitely doable.
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