Oliver Sullivan: "Time is valuable and we are constantly running out of it"

Oliver Sullivan, 23, is a rising DJ and music producer from Emmental, Switzerland, known for his energetic sets and unique production style. Inspired by global icons like Avicii and Martin Garrix, he started performing in local clubs at just 14 and began producing music at 16. His breakthrough came in 2023 with the summer hit Summer on Me, which racked up millions of streams and charted internationally. A standout moment in his young career was collaborating with Gloria Jones to celebrate 60 years of Tainted Love. Now, Oliver is taking his dynamic tech house performances on the road with his first live tour, Safari 25/26, promising electrifying shows for audiences worldwide.

You started out by turning your bedroom into a small stage. Looking back, how do you think that DIY beginning shaped the way you approach music production today?

DIY helps you to completely understand how things work and puts a whole different level of creativity into things. At least for me, it feels that way. Today I need to work more efficiently and am very grateful for all the different tools that make the process of production and also promotion much more convenient. I think I still have this DIY approach but with cooler programs now.

Your new single "Tik Tok" with Scarlett has a very modern and catchy sound. How did this collaboration come about, and what message or feeling did you want to convey through the track?

In spring 2025 I was browsing online for new vocal talents to write a new song together. On SoundBetter I met Scarlett and we immediately connected over the feeling that time is valuable and that we are constantly running out of it, chasing too many things at once which stresses us out. Basically it is like a mid life crisis at a young age. :) Tik Tok is about embracing spontaneity and enjoying life once in a while. Do not think too hard about tomorrow and just be in the moment, whether that means ticking off bucket list points, going clubbing or spending time with family. Relax and breathe.

You’ve mentioned artists like Hardwell and Martin Garrix as your early inspirations. Who are the producers or musicians that inspire you the most today?

I feel incredibly honored to be part of the project celebrating the 60th anniversary of Tainted Love together with the original singer, Gloria Jones. It is a great privilege to work with her. Gloria is not only the voice behind one of the most iconic songs in music history but also an exceptional composer and producer who has worked with many international stars, including The Jackson 5, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, The Commodores, and many others. We presented the project on major German TV shows and gave radio interviews around the world. It has been an inspiring journey and a unique opportunity to learn from a living legend.

This year I actually got to play at my own festival alongside one of my idols, the French DJ, singer, and producer Mosimann, which was absolutely incredible. I still get goosebumps thinking about our sets. Lately I have been shifting more into tech house compared to my early days. I absolutely love the vibes and sounds of artists like Dom Dolla, James Hype, SAMA, and Matroda (whom I met at Ultra Music Croatia at 5 a.m., but that is another story). I love this scene. Amazing people come together to create music that celebrates time and shared memories.

In 2023, your releases reached over 2 million streams and received radio play worldwide. Was there a specific moment when you realized your music was truly connecting with an international audience?

It is a surreal experience to see your own music being heard by people all around the world, it is honestly mind blowing. One crazy moment was seeing Summer On Me reach second place on Inselradio’s listener charts, the biggest radio station on the Balearic Islands, Mallorca and Ibiza.

Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, how would you describe the evolution of your sound? Do you see yourself experimenting with new genres, or staying true to the high-energy EDM style that started it all?

My crew and I are always trying out new sounds and like to create what feels right in the moment. Therefore each song may vary in genre and production style but is always connected to dance and EDM. There’s a lot more coming, stay tuned.

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