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Yulia Niko: "Every note I compose comes from the heart"

Redaction
Mar 27
4 min read

Yulia Niko, originally from Berlin, is a talented electronic music artist who has conquered the global scene through her collaboration with influential labels like Crosstown Rebels and Watergate. Her passion for music began at the age of 15, and after studying music production in New York, she became a prominent name in the international scene. In March 2024, she released her debut album "TWINSOUL", an intimate and experimental project that marks an important chapter in her career. With a style that blends house and techno, Yulia has graced the stages of some of the world's most prestigious clubs and festivals, bringing her positive energy to every performance. After over twenty years in the industry, Yulia continues to be a key figure in electronic music, staying true to her passion and the humility that has led her to success.

Your new track "Come Away" will be released in April on TSZR. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this piece and what listeners can expect?

Absolutely! I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with an incredibly talented singer from a rock band in Buenos Aires. We became friends after meeting, and we decided to work together on a track. He sent me several ideas, and I was particularly inspired by one called "Come Away".

One of my goals for this project was to create a big, energetic track perfect for the summer festival season. I wanted to incorporate driving beats that would resonate with festival-goers, making it an unforgettable experience. Interestingly, this record carries a bit of melancholy, which is a departure from the upbeat happy house tracks I'm known for.

I think this shift will surprise my fans, as they've typically heard only the more joyful aspects of my music. I believe this new sound will showcase my versatility as an artist and highlight different emotional tones. It has been a rewarding process, and I'm eager for everyone to hear it!

Your AXEPT label is a project that reflects your musical vision. What is the mission of the label, and which artists or sounds are you looking to promote?

My label has been one of the best decisions I've ever made for my career, and it brings me constant joy. It keeps me up to date with the evolving soundscapes that I'm passionate about, and the fact that producers from all around the world send me their music is incredibly exciting.

I often have the privilege of being among the first to play these tracks for huge festival crowds, which creates a unique connection between us and the fans.

I see my label as my baby—I pour my heart and soul into it. I take great care to nurture not just the growth of the label, but also the artists involved. Collaborating with emerging talent has allowed me to explore new sounds and perspectives, and it often leads to exciting partnerships that go beyond just music production. This collaborative spirit is something I cherish deeply, as it fosters a vibrant community of creativity and innovation.

Ultimately, my label not only represents my artistic vision, but it also serves as a platform for other talented artists to shine and connect with audiences. I'm incredibly proud of the relationships we've built and the music we’re creating together.

Your experience at Coachella must have been unforgettable. What were the most significant moments of the festival, and how did it impact your career?

Coachella is just around the corner, and while I’m incredibly excited, I’m also a very chill person when it comes to big events like this. I don’t have any huge expectations; instead, I’m looking forward to experiencing it as a sort of magical surprise.

My team and I are genuinely proud to be part of such a renowned festival. It’s interesting to see how many people reach out for guest lists, which makes me realize the scale of this event and how seriously it’s taken! That adds an amusing layer to the experience.

I think it’s important to keep an open mind and just enjoy the moment. Ask me again after the festival; I’ll happily share how it went!

You have a busy tour schedule and perform at some of the most prestigious clubs and festivals in the world. How do you manage to balance life on tour with time dedicated to music production and creativity?

To be honest, managing a work-life balance with such a hectic schedule and frequent intercontinental flights can be quite challenging. I do my best to stay healthy by exercising regularly and getting enough sleep when I can, but it’s difficult.

I often find myself feeling lost or jet-lagged, especially during those times of the month when energy levels can drop significantly.

Despite these challenges, I genuinely believe that this is the best job ever, and I love what I do. I’ve come to realize that there’s no such thing as a perfect job where you’re always perfectly balanced. Achieving something meaningful often involves navigating some stress and impatience. These emotions can actually serve as powerful motivators, pushing me to make significant, game-changing steps in my career.

Ultimately, while it’s important to strive for balance, I also recognize that sometimes the chaos is part of the journey. I try to embrace the unpredictability and focus on the passion I have for my work.

Your career has taken you from New York to Berlin. How have these cities shaped your musical style and artistic vision?

New York and Berlin are two powerhouses in the music world, each hosting some of the best events and attracting top artists from around the globe. Studying and living in these cities is like attending a school where you’re taught by the best professors in the industry. It truly teaches you to thrive in a hectic environment while exposing you to some of the coolest artists.

Being in these vibrant scenes has allowed me not only to listen to a diverse array of music but also to network with talented musicians, some of whom I've had the pleasure of meeting personally. This connection has opened up doors to the secret underground sides of music, enriching my artistic perspective.

I highly recommend that everyone takes the time to explore both cities and get lost in their unique atmospheres. Even just experiencing an after-party at least once can be transformative! The energy, creativity, and passion in these places offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make a mark in the music industry.