Polish-born, Paris-based DJ and producer GIGEE has been on an incredible run of form across the past couple of years, releasing her deep, melodic blend of house music with record labels like Mobilee, Katermukke, and Desert Hearts.
Next up on her release schedule is an impressive 2-track offering titled ‘Mind Games’, which will come via Joris Voorn’s own Spectrum imprint towards the end of July.
We recently got the change to speak to GIGEE about the new tracks, her thoughts on getting to work with an artist like Joris, what advice she would give to anyone wanting to sign their own music to established labels, and more. Read the interview in full below.
Hey GIGEE, how are things with you over in Paris at the moment?
Hey, I’m doing great thank you! I’ve been quite busy with my tour schedule as well as traveling between Warsaw and Paris. It’s been a bit challenging to juggle everything, but I’m enjoying the journey. At the moment, I’m in the process of looking for a new permanent apartment in Paris and hoping to finalise things before autumn. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to settling down in a new place soon. As well as building my very own dream home studio.
You’ll soon be debuting on Joris Voorn’s Spectrum imprint with your new ‘Mind Games’ EP, talk us through the two tracks included on this one?
I wrote these two tracks at different times. ‘Is It A Dream’ came first, and I wanted to write something to compliment it on the release. As ‘Mind Games’ started to come together, I felt that it was the natural A-Side of the pair. I wanted to create something stripped back but with a groove and a strong kick as the essentials.
They say less is more, so the whole track structure operates on the progression & energy level variations and Moog Sub37 synth arps with some dreamy melodic breakdown in between. That’s how ‘Mind Games’ was made.
I had several directions for ‘Is It A Dream’, and it was the more difficult track to finish. Originally it was quite vocal heavy, but I realised that a stripped back version with less vocals, and more of a focus on the ‘Is It A Dream’ line created a stronger track overall, and so I went with this.
And it must give you a lot of confidence to have someone like Joris release your music?
Oh. It’s such an honour to release on Joris’ label, I’m extremely proud and grateful! I’ve been a huge fan of his music for a long time and he has been supporting my releases from other imprints as well, so it kinda felt like a natural connection. Couldn’t be more happy about it.
You’ve also put tracks out with labels like Mobilee and Katermukke in the past, what do you look for in a label when considering them for a release?
Interesting question! When considering a label for a release, I prioritise a few key factors. One crucial element is a shared vision, where the label and I align in our artistic direction and long-term goals. This mutual understanding creates a strong foundation for us to grow together, supporting each other’s artistic journeys.
A label that resonates with me will have similar aesthetics and musical preferences, ensuring that our creative visions harmoniously blend. This alignment not only enhances the cohesion of the release but also fosters a deeper connection between the label, the artist, and the audience.
Equally important are the people behind the label and their approach. I value labels that prioritise artist development and provide genuine support throughout the whole process. It goes beyond a mere “release for release sake” mentality. I seek a label that actively engages in promoting the track and finds exciting ways to connect with a wider audience. This includes curating compelling visual content, and exploring unique marketing approaches that resonate with the target audience.
For me, a label’s commitment to artist support is paramount. I look for a label that goes beyond the release itself, and has a longer term collaborative vision. In the past this has included all sorts of things from assistance with career development, guidance on branding and image, being included in label nights or amazing collaboration opportunities with other artists on their roster. It’s a bit cliché to say, but the “family” vibe is important to me – a label that recognizes the potential for growth and invests in the long-term success of its artists, and I think you can identify this when you see that the other artists on the label feel connected to each other.
I think we all create, play, and listen to music in live environments to connect with ourselves, and with others. Whether it’s between the DJ booth and the crowd, from friends (or strangers!) in the crowd to others in the crowd – but also behind the scenes! – As an artist it is always a joy to be able to spend time with others on a similar path to you, and to share parts of the journey together. Having been inspired by Joris for many years, it was such an amazing moment for me the first time I saw him play ‘Mind Games’, after he had signed it to his label Spectrum.
And what advice would you give to anyone that’s aiming to work with these kinds of labels?
There are some essential points that you should follow. Firstly I would recommend to develop a unique sound: Focus on creating your distinct artistic identity that stands out.
Network and connect: Engage with like-minded artists, attend events, and build relationships within the scene. Nothing works better than a real human connection.
Research and select labels carefully: Find labels that align with your style, values, and vision, and where you can see a positive culture and interaction within the artists affiliated with the label.
Submit high-quality demos: This is very important, present professionally produced and finished tracks that show your understanding of the label’s sound and follow their demo submission rules.
Be persistent and patient: Understand that success may take time, so stay committed, patient, and focused on your artistic journey. Experiment, keep producing music, and remember that everyone was in this place before and rejection that is part of the game.
Build an online presence: It’s the XXI century and social media is more important than ever. Utilise your online platforms to share your music, engage with fans, and attract attention from labels. Try to keep your profiles appealing. It matters.
Maintain professionalism: Ask yourself first, if you really want it, if you want that life? Because it’s not always milk & honey. Actually it’s going to be tough and you will go through many doubts in many different areas. If the answer is still yes, then go get it! Be reliable, responsive, and professional in your interactions, building trust and a positive reputation within the scene since day one is a must. Don’t be hard to work with.
Do you have any other releases in the pipeline which you can tell us about?
I have a couple of new, unreleased tracks ready, and I’m now scheduling everything, so I hope to announce a few surprises around autumn. I can’t say more than that, but I promise it will be worth it.
Which clubs and festivals are you most excited about playing this summer?
Oh I love festival season. I’m a festival junkie, so I’m always extremely excited for this time of the year. Lots of magical venues in the pipeline but I’m actually the most excited about my first ever visit to Black Rock City, legendary playa & Burning Man. It’s going to be both thrilling and challenging, but I’m happy to take the risk and go fully IN.
Is there anything else you want to bring attention to before we go?
Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure, if you ever happen to visit me at a party please don’t hesitate to say hello – that is a message to everyone who’s reading this, cheers!
GIGEE – Mind Games EP is out July 28th on Spectrum.