Ece Ekren is a producer, singer and songwriter originally from Istanbul and now residing in Berlin. Her rise has been meteoric over the past few years, and with good reason – her feel for melding esoteric melodies and instrumentation to house and techno grooves has seen her win many fans.
Her new single I Feel You is an atmospheric, dreamy track carried by Ece’s beautiful vocals, and backed by her hypnotic, minimal beats, and startling, trancy synths which is out now on Zatar Music with remixes from Bakka (BR) and Pete Sabo.
Connect with Ece Ekren on Soundcloud
Thanks for talking to us today – how’s the year been treating you so far?
First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for this interview opportunity. It brings me immense joy to have the chance to answer all of your thought-provoking questions.
This year has been nothing short of transformative for me, as I have embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Allow me to share with you some of the remarkable experiences and milestones that have shaped my path.
One of the most significant highlights of this year was my debut performance as a multi-talented artist, where I seamlessly combined my skills as a DJ, flutist, and vocalist in a mesmerizing hybrid set. It was an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience for me, as I had never before showcased my vocal and flute-playing abilities in front of a live audience. However, the overwhelming sense of fear was quickly replaced by a surge of excitement and satisfaction as the crowd embraced my unique musical expression.
In addition to my artistic endeavours, I also made a life-changing decision to relocate to the vibrant city of Berlin. This cosmopolitan hub of creativity has had a profound impact on my musical mindset, allowing me to explore new dimensions of sound and expand the horizons of my musical style. I have dedicated countless hours to refining my musical sound, meticulously crafting my lyrics, and delving deep into the intricacies of my chosen genre. Berlin has become a catalyst for my artistic growth, igniting my passion and propelling me towards new artistic heights.
I have found solace in the harmonious connection between my music and my soul.
Amidst this journey of self-discovery, I have found solace in the harmonious connection between my music and my soul. By actively listening to the depths of my being, I continuously strive to improve and elevate my artistry. I am constantly on the lookout for fresh and innovative musical styles, eagerly experimenting with different elements and incorporating them into my own productions. Each composition serves as a stepping stone, guiding me closer to the realization of my creative vision.
This transformative year has instilled within me an unwavering belief that I am on the right path. It has reaffirmed my commitment to my art and has shown me that there are countless adventures awaiting me on this musical odyssey. I am confident that everything will align perfectly, unfolding in its own time and harmony, and I eagerly anticipate the delightful surprises that lie ahead.
First of all, we want to get to know you “from the beginning”. How did your history with music begin?
When I was a child, I had a passion for music. I would spend hours listening to my Walkman, with headphones plugged into my ears, getting lost in the rhythm and melody of my favorite tunes. I collected cassettes of various genres, from rock to pop, and even classical music.
As I grew older, my love for music continued to grow. I discovered the enchanting sound of the flute and became captivated by its ability to create beautiful and haunting melodies. Eager to learn how to play it, I devoted hours to practicing and perfecting my skills. The sound of the flute became my personal soundtrack, a means for me to express myself and share my love of music with others.
The sound of the flute became my personal soundtrack, a means for me to express myself and share my love of music with others.
During that time, I enjoyed listening to both natural instruments like the flute and electronic music on CD players. It was a unique experience that opened up a whole new world of music for me. I loved how electronic music pushed the boundaries of what was possible with music, and I was excited to explore this new genre.
The combination of natural and electronic sounds fascinated me, and I often experimented with different music styles and sounds on my CD player. There was something about the way the notes seemed to dance and swirl around me that I just couldn’t get enough of.
During my time at university, where I pursued a degree in Computer Engineering, I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant world of music by regularly attending clubs and festivals every weekend. These experiences exposed me to the awe-inspiring performances of numerous talented DJs, leaving an indelible impression on me.
The electricity in the air, the pulsating beats, and the euphoria shared by the crowd ignited a deep-seated passion within me. I yearned to be a part of this magical world, to stand on the DJ stage and unleash my own unique musical expression.
After completing my first year of university, I decided to embark on a journey of self-discovery and musical exploration. I dedicated myself to learning how to play music and honing my skills as a DJ. Every weekend, I eagerly took the stage at local clubs, sharing my evolving talent with enthusiastic audiences.
Upon graduating as a Computer Engineer, I made a conscious decision to pursue my true passion for music. Rather than allowing it to fade into the background, I delved even deeper into the artistry of music, immersing myself in the world of music production and sound creation.
Music has become my guiding light, leading me towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life. The process of playing and creating music has not only enriched my soul but has also instilled within me a newfound sense of confidence and clarity in my life path.
You graduated from university as a computer engineer… to what extent do you utilize the skills you learned there in your music production?
Firstly, the learning process of being an engineer has given me a logical mindset. It has taught me how to solve problems and think about alternative solutions. I strongly believe that with the right mindset and strategy, any problem can be solved, and our limitations are only defined by our vision. It is through facing and overcoming challenges that we grow and excel and Problems exist to be solved!
After successfully completing my studies as a Computer Engineer, I embarked on a self-taught journey into the realm of music production. Without any external guidance, I delved into various music production programs, meticulously exploring their features and functionalities. To further enhance my knowledge, I actively sought out tutorials and immersed myself in the world of music production. This solitary endeavour allowed me to harness my engineering mindset, which proved to be invaluable in devising efficient learning shortcuts and identifying the most effective ways to enhance my skills. I firmly believe that through continuous self-learning and problem-solving, one can unlock boundless possibilities and surpass their own limitations.
The fusion of my engineering background and passion for music production has enabled me to approach challenges with a unique perspective.
In conclusion, the fusion of my engineering background and passion for music production has enabled me to approach challenges with a unique perspective. By cultivating a mindset focused on self-improvement and innovative problem-solving, I have come to realize that the sky is the limit. Imagination plays a pivotal role in pushing boundaries and exceeding one’s own expectations. When armed with the knowledge of how to navigate through life’s obstacles and find creative solutions, incredible achievements become attainable.
My family’s support and encouragement have been instrumental in my journey towards obtaining a computer engineering education. It has not only enhanced my analytical mindset but also opened up new dimensions of learning and growth. I am truly grateful for their unwavering belief in me. In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my family for their continuous support.
What did DJing at festivals like EXIT teach you about live performance?
Exit festival took me on an extraordinary journey that completely transformed my life. Being able to perform on the Mainstage of Exit festival not only broadened my musical horizons but also revolutionized my mindset. The opportunity to showcase my music and talents to an incredible crowd was a truly remarkable experience, allowing me to not only entertain but also educate and immerse myself in the world of electronic music.
Through my time at Exit festival, I learned a valuable lesson: that if you wholeheartedly yearn for something and relentlessly strive for self-improvement, the perfect moment will eventually present itself. The festival instilled in me the belief that dreams can become a reality with dedication and perseverance.
Exit festival forged an unbreakable bond between music, the audience, and myself, resulting in an indescribable and unforgettable journey. It transcended being just a festival; it became a conduit for expressing emotions and sharing profound messages with the universe, leaving an everlasting impact.
One of the most incredible aspects of Exit festival was the opportunity it provided to connect with individuals who shared the same passion for music. It served as a platform for like-minded artists and enthusiasts to come together, fostering a sense of community and creative exchange. This transformative experience not only allowed me to grow as an artist but also enabled me to tap into the universal language of music, creating a deep connection with people from all walks of life. The infectious energy and unwavering enthusiasm radiating from the crowd at Exit festival ignited a fire within me, fuelling my unwavering desire to continue crafting and sharing my music with the world.
Exit festival was more than just a music festival; it was a life-altering event that propelled me into a new realm of possibilities.
In conclusion, Exit festival was more than just a music festival; it was a life-altering event that propelled me into a new realm of possibilities. It served as a catalyst for personal growth, artistic expression, and profound connections, serving as a testament to the power of music to transform lives and unite people from diverse backgrounds.
How did you connect with Phonique and Zatar Music for the new single?
When I first embarked on my journey as a DJ, I found myself captivated by the enchanting sounds of “Feel What You Want” by Phonique. This track, with its incredibly soft and chill vocals, along with its irresistible beats, had an uncanny ability to make everyone on the dancefloor move to its rhythm.
In the early stages of my DJ career, I was presented with a golden opportunity to play a warm-up set for none other than Phonique himself. It was at this memorable gig that our paths crossed and I had the privilege of experiencing his live performance firsthand. To say that I felt lucky would be an understatement. Being able to witness his talent and contribute to the atmosphere by setting the stage for his performance was a truly humbling experience.
As the years went by and I found myself settling in Berlin, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene, fate intervened once again. We found ourselves sharing the stage in various clubs, creating unforgettable memories together. These encounters not only solidified our professional connection but also paved the way for a genuine friendship to blossom. During these encounters, I eagerly seized the opportunity to showcase my latest demo tracks to Phonique, hoping to gain his invaluable feedback and guidance.
Phonique’s DJ sets and productions have had a profound impact on my musical perspective. His ability to seamlessly blend deep, melodic house grooves with captivating vocals and a natural bassline sound is truly awe-inspiring. Each time I find myself immersed in one of his sets, I am transported to a realm where music becomes a conduit for emotions and self-expression.
It is with a deep sense of gratitude and joy that I proudly announce the release of a single from Phonique’s esteemed label, Zatar Music. This milestone represents not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the unwavering support and confidence that Phonique has placed in my music. It is a pleasure to be associated with such a respected label, and I firmly believe that this is just the beginning of an exciting musical journey. With each passing day, I am filled with anticipation, knowing that more tunes will emerge from the depths of my heart, ready to touch the souls of listeners around the world.
What does your current studio set up look like? Lots of hardware, or are you mainly ‘out of the box’ type producers?
I’m an extremely “out of the box” type of producer because I need to have an open vision to create music. I consider myself a storyteller, as I always write lyrics first and then create the sound.
When I write lyrics, I start by envisioning the sound of my music and try to already structure it in my mind.
I’m fortunate to have a wide range of emotions and different perspectives to draw upon when writing lyrics. I use my computer and great analog synth plugins to bring my ideas to life. I’m so portable that I can produce music and focus on it wherever I am in the world. I’m a music producer who travels worldwide.
The music is already in my mind, so I need a great interface to make it a reality.
When I finish a song, I always make sure to check it in a studio with a great soundsystem to improve the sound of my mix. But the first spark comes from within my heart and needs to be ignited.
What should we be looking out for from you in the next few months?
When I dream about the future, I feel great because my soul sees a golden light brightening my path, and I’m open to new adventures in my life.
I have finished several exciting projects and have been fortunate enough to work with amazingly talented vocalists.
One of my upcoming projects is called ‘OKO’, and I worked with an incredibly talented artist named Viwe. Our song is in the Xhosa language, and her vocals are a pleasant surprise. I’m thrilled to have created music with her.
For my upcoming music, called ‘Phoenix’, I worked with the wonderful vocalist Samira. While producing the song, I incorporated bird sounds. As I continue to advance in my music career, I always look for new ways to collaborate with talented artists in my productions. Currently, I am producing a song called ‘Deep in the Water’ and will be using the sound of the ocean to enhance it.
So, I have new music and inspirations to surprise you within the upcoming months.
Stay tuned for exciting new music releases and surprises in the upcoming months! I can’t wait to share my latest creations and inspirations with you all. Get ready for an amazing musical journey!
What is the best advice you ever received as an artist?
Follow your instincts!
When I started creating music, I tried to follow the trends and was afraid to showcase my personal thoughts and creations. Then I realized that as an artist, it is important to share what you love without fear of opposition or negative thinking. I dream big and trust my instincts to achieve my goals. When I am unsure about something, I listen to my heart and make it happen. We sometimes forget to listen to ourselves and neglect self-care. We should prioritize the voices in our hearts and trust our instincts. Follow your instincts, as that is where true wisdom reveals itself.
Remember, the journey of an artist is about self-expression and staying true to your own unique voice. Embrace your creativity and don’t be afraid to share your art with the world, even if it goes against the mainstream. Trust your instincts and follow your passion, for that is where your true wisdom lies.
Anything else you’d like to tell us…?
I am deeply grateful to the unwavering individuals who have always stood by my side, relentlessly encouraging me to create new songs and generously sharing their ideas with me. I firmly believe that without an audience, music would lose its inherent purpose, as it serves as a profound tool to connect people and foster a sense of unity. It is through music that we can transcend geographical boundaries and share in the same array of emotions that resonate throughout this vast universe.
I want to assure each and every one of you that I am dedicated to the continuous creation and sharing of my music. Your unwavering support and belief in my artistry are the driving forces that propel me forward. It is your encouragement that fuels my inspiration and motivates me to explore new horizons in my musical journey. Together, let us forge ahead, using the power of music as a
Thanks for this lovely interview.
Thank you.
