The next emerging talent to appear on our Inflyte Radar comes in the form of German producer Akki, following his recent collaboration with techno duo Cosmic Boys.
Previously Akki has seen his music land on labels such as Codex Recordings, Spinnup, and IAMT, while his most recent production “Dark Places” finds him debut with Cosmic Boys’ Legend imprint.
We asked him about the new collaboration, what else he might have planned for the future, how he decided he wanted to pursue a career in music, and more. Get the full discussion with Akki and stream “Dark Places” below.
You just released your Cosmic Boys collaboration “Dark Places” on Legend, how did you come to work with the guys?
I had been working on a new melody including the vocal sample in that track, and I uploaded it to my Instagram story. The boys reacted to it, and asked me if I’d like to finish the track together with them. Of course, I immediately agreed, and it was an absolute honour to work with them.
What’s the biggest lesson you learned from working with such experienced producers?
It was great to see our different styles and ways of approaching a track, together we were able to interoperate and create something totally new. The way they used the different production elements gave me a great insight into a new way of how to create music.
In the past you’ve also released music on Codex Recordings, Spinnup, and IAMT, what’s one tip you would give to aspiring artists that want to sign their tracks to these kinds of labels?
Always try to get in direct contact with the label owner themselves via Instagram or Facebook. Try to make them remember your name, be patient, and let your music speak for itself so it tells a story. I’ve done exactly that with all of my releases.
And which other labels can we expect to see you on soon?
I am very much excited to release on Monika Kruse’s Terminal M label this year. That was a big dream of mine, as I play quite a lot of stuff from Terminal M in my DJ sets. It’s great how things evolve, and that right now I have my dreams starting to come true.
Do you remember the first time you were exposed to techno music?
I have actually been listening to techno all my life, or at least since I can remember, as my mum had a techno club in Frankfurt about 30 or 40 years ago, and I have never stopped listening to that kind of music ever since.
And how long after did you decide you wanted to pursue music as a career?
I always knew that I wanted to do something creative with my life, and the day I decided to study music at university, was the day I decided to pursue my career as an artist. I’ve invested every single spare minute into producing and learning new skills. I am hoping to do this all my life, as music is, and always will be my passion.
Are there any other genres you’re passionate about and would consider producing in a few years’ time?
There are indeed some other genres, for example, hardstyle and drum & bass, as I really like those styles, and I already started producing some stuff in those genres, but those tracks are only for fun, and only for myself.
Thanks a lot for answering our questions, before we wrap things up – is there anything else you want to mention?
If you are ever afraid of exploring a new path, and nervous about taking a new route in life or pursuing something totally out of the norm, which may be completely different to what you are doing right now – don’t be afraid! Just start to work on your dreams, and pour all your heart and soul into it, if that’s what makes you happy. One day your dreams could become reality, but if you never try, then you will never know.
Akki & Cosmic Boys – Dark Places is out now on Legend.